Salt Point State Park protects 6,000 acres of rugged Sonoma Coast wilderness along 6+ miles of dramatic California coastline. This diving and tidepooling paradise includes the underwater Gerstle Cove State Marine Reserve, spectacular tidepools, coastal camping, and 20+ miles of hiking trails. A premier destination for ocean exploration where rocky bluffs meet crashing waves!
🦪 Abalone Status 2026
- Red abalone harvest: CLOSED since 2017
- Proposed extension: Until April 1, 2036
- Population recovery ongoing
- Diving still excellent—just look, don’t take!
Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve
| Diving Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🤿 Type | State Marine Reserve |
| 🐟 Status | Fully protected—no take! |
| 🌿 Marine Life | Rich underwater ecosystem |
| 🎯 Best For | Scuba, snorkeling, photography |
Tidepools
| Tidepool Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🌊 Best Time | Low tide |
| ⭐ Quality | Spectacular! |
| 📍 Access | Multiple coastal points |
Coastal Camping
| Campground | Sites | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🌊 Gerstle Cove | 30 | Ocean side of Hwy 1—views! |
| 🌲 Woodside | 79 | East of Hwy 1 (closed winter) |
| 🚐 Overflow | Varies | Self-contained only, no fires |
| 🚲 Hiker/Biker | Available | First-come basis |
| Campsite Amenities | Details |
|---|---|
| 🔥 Fire Rings | Yes (main campgrounds) |
| 🐻 Food Lockers | All sites |
| 💧 Water | Available |
| 🚿 Showers | No |
| 🚐 Max Camper | 31 feet |
| 🚛 Max Trailer | 27 feet |
20+ Miles of Trails
| Trail Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 📏 Total Miles | 20+ |
| 🌊 Coastal Access | Multiple points |
| 🌲 Terrain | Coastal bluffs to forest |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still dive for abalone?
No. The recreational red abalone fishery has been closed since 2017 due to severe population decline (purple urchin barrens destroyed kelp forests). A proposed amendment would extend the closure until April 1, 2036. You can still dive and snorkel—just look, photograph, and enjoy the marine life, but do NOT take any abalone.
What is Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve?
Gerstle Cove is a fully protected State Marine Reserve where no marine life may be taken. This protection has allowed incredible underwater ecosystems to flourish, making it one of the best diving and snorkeling spots on the Sonoma Coast. The rich marine life makes it a premier underwater photography destination.
Which campground has ocean views?
Gerstle Cove Campground is located on the ocean side of Highway 1 with 30 sites and coastal views! Woodside Campground (79 sites) is on the east side of the highway in a forested setting. Note that Woodside closes for winter.
When is the best time for tidepooling?
Tidepools are best explored at low tide. Check tide charts before your visit—the park’s spectacular tidepools are revealed when the ocean pulls back. Look for sea stars, anemones, urchins, and countless other marine invertebrates.
Are drones allowed?
No. Drones are not permitted within Salt Point State Park. This protects the wildlife and ensures a peaceful experience for all visitors.
🤿 Sonoma Coast Diving Paradise
Explore underwater marine reserves, discover spectacular tidepools, and camp along 6 miles of rugged coastline. Visit the official Salt Point State Park website for camping reservations.
Explore More California State Parks
Salt Point State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in California. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in California guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Rhododendron State Park (a short drive away) or Fort Ross State Historic Park (a short drive away).
Park Location
Plan your gear for Salt Point State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
