Sandy beach
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Surfing
Yes
Snorkeling / SCUBA
No
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Moonstone Beach is one of Humboldt County's premier surfing spots, and it offers a nice break that is suitable for both beginner and intermediate surfers. Even on crowded days the waves offer plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the water without having to compete for space. Along with surfers, boogie boarders and skimboarders are also frequent visitors to Moonstone.

While the surfing is some of the best in the area, the beach is also top-notch. Little River, which feeds in from the far left side of the beach, offers swimming for those who prefer to stay out of the ocean, and it is great place to cool off in the summer months. Small tide pools form during low tide, and a multitude of creatures can be found. Look for sunflower and ochre starfish, sea urchins, mussels, crabs, anemone, and snails. There is also a small cave for exploring and a short trail that leads up to a lookout viewpoint on one of the cliffs. The large, flat, and open dimensions of the beach make it a great place to set up a picnic and spend the day enjoying the area. On most sunny days you will find a diverse mix of people, dogs, and watersport enthusiasts enjoying this coastal treasure. In the summer months parking in the one and only parking lot fills up quickly. Though there is a portable toilet located in the parking lot, you'll have to make sure to haul out any garbage, as there are no trash cans.  

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Easy access. Ocean and stream swimming. Family friendly.

Cons

Crowded. Limited parking.

Features

Fishing
Surfing
Tide pools
Wildlife
Bird watching
Tide pools

Location

Comments

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