Dynamic Coastal Scenery greets you as you walk on a secluded beach. The unique beauty of the reef awaits. This special opportunity to visit the hidden marine and bird wild life is a treat. We explore the low inter-tidal zone usually 10-15 feet below the ocean surface. Exceptional minus tides are controlled by the moon and sun. These minus tides only occur during day light a few days a year. Abundant wildlife, curious seals, colorful shore birds, bold crabs, graceful anemones, iridescent seaweed and sea stars abound. Join us for a walk on the bottom of the ocean. The natural splendor will amaze you.

In Spring months, tides are at sunrise. In Fall and Winter months, the lowest tides are before sunset. We visit the low Inter-tidal Zone along the Pacific coast during minus tides. We begin Spring tours around 6AM and Fall tours after 1PM. Please check the schedule on our web site for dates and time.

These hikes are over "INTERMEDIATE to DIFFICULT" terrain, hiking and reef walking skills are required. We will discuss the vegetation, habitat and animals. Once on the reef, the real treat is spending time viewing the rainbow of colors and marine life in nooks, crannies, crevices, tidepools and surge channels. We use 8X MINOX Monoculars for viewing the beautiful vibrant life and color of these miniature oceans we know as tidepools. Photo Opportunities abound. The trip is 3-4 hours depending on the tide. Overcast and cool weather are the best conditions to see and photograph the life on the reef.

Our outfitting gear includes LEKI trekking pools, SEAL SKIN water-proof socks and gloves, kneeling pads, water resistant fanny packs, marine radio support, MINOX monocular viewing equipment, water and snack. These trips are limited to small groups of seven so please book early.

Directions

Directions - Travel north or south on Hwy 1(Cabrillo Hwy) to Pillar Point Harbor stop light. Turn west into the harbor on Capistrano Ave. Pass the Half Moon Bay Brewery. Turn left on Princeton Ave. stop sign at Mezzaluna Restaurant, drive (one short block) and turn left on Broadway at stop sign and right (one half block) on Princeton Ave past the Harbor House B&B, Half Moon Bay Yacht Club and the Old Black Fertilizer Warehouse. When the road “T’s” turn right on West Point Ave. and follow the road to the last parking lot. You will see our group close to the parking lot entrance. Look for a white Lexus.

Starting Times

We begin all tours on the ebb tide, which means we follow the tide out. The tours are only offered when the mean low tide is less than zero during day light. The tour leaves from the “Mavericks” day-use parking lot at the end of West Point Ave. in Princeton by the Sea. Please check our reservation page for details.  Pleases plan on spending 4 hours.

Personal Gear

Please bring hiking or walking shoes, wind breaker, sunglasses, camera and hat. Dressing in layers assures your comfort.

Book a Tour   650-712-8456

Coastal Elegance Reef Walking 2012 Schedule

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