Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center: Point Sal Hike

Join us for an unforgettable hike led by The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center docent, Ray Segovia! ????The rocks that make up Point Sal State Beach represent one of the most intact and complete cross sections of oceanic crust visible on land. Oceanic crust comprises of 60% of the earth’s crust, yet we rarely have opportunities to see it and study its formation. The rocks at the park record geologic conditions that indicate submarine origin and widespread transport via plate tectonics. Oceanic crust is a produced at ocean spearing centers and consumed in subduction zones. Views of the coastline, beach and rugged mountain slopes are exceptional.  Lion Rock, located offshore, is an important bird-roosting site and is also used by sea lions and other marine mammals.

The park consists of approximately 80 acres and includes just over 1 1/2 miles of ocean frontage.  Lands above the beach and rocky shoreline have extremely steep slopes, and numerous landslides are evident. Prime examples of coastal sage and chaparral communities occur on these slopes.  Giant coreopsis is abundant in the area and dominates wildflower displays in the spring. Public access to Point Sal SB is available via Brown Road. No civilian access is available through Vandenberg Space Force Base. Motor vehicle access, bicycle access, and camping are not permitted.  Access is from sunrise to sunset for recreational purposes only.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to get ready for this scenic adventure ????️

Don’t miss out on the stunning views and nature insights. See you on the trail!