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Sasel Coastal Protection Area adventures

Sasel Coastal Protection Area Adventures

Sasel Coastal Protection Area preserves a unique stretch of California’s northern coastline, offering pristine beaches, rare coastal ecosystems, and diverse outdoor recreation opportunities along the Pacific Ocean.

4,850
Acres Protected
15
Miles of Trails
45,000
Annual Visitors
1998
Year Established

About Sasel Coastal Protection Area

 

The Sasel Coastal Protection Area, located along the rugged northern California coast, spans a remarkable array of coastal habitats including tide pools, sandy beaches, coastal prairies, and forested bluffs. This protected area plays a critical role in preserving sensitive marine and terrestrial ecosystems, such as eelgrass beds and habitats for threatened shorebirds and marine mammals. Historically, this region was inhabited by Indigenous peoples who relied on its abundant marine resources. Today, Sasel Coastal Protection Area provides visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of California’s most scenic and ecologically valuable coastlines. Popular recreational activities include beachcombing, tide pooling, birdwatching, kayaking, and hiking along cliffside trails that offer panoramic ocean views. The area is also notable for its dramatic sea stacks and natural arches, offering iconic photographic scenes. Efforts to protect the habitat contribute to the preservation of endangered species such as the marbled murrelet and coho salmon. The relatively remote location and limited access points help maintain the area's tranquility, making it a sought-after destination for nature enthusiasts and conservation-minded visitors. Visitors are encouraged to respect the fragile shoreline environments and adhere to guidelines designed to minimize human impact.

Highlights

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Sasel Headland Overlook – stunning panoramic views of the Pacific coastline

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Rare coastal dune ecosystem supporting native wildflowers and shorebirds

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Tide Pools at Otter Bay – abundant marine life visible at low tide

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Hidden Cove Trail – secluded beach accessible only by a moderate hike

Notable Natural Features

Sasel Headland Overlook

A dramatic cliff-top viewpoint offering expansive views of sea stacks, offshore rock formations, and vast ocean horizons.

Otter Bay Tide Pools

A rich intertidal zone featuring starfish, anemones, crabs, and other marine creatures visible during low tide.

Sasel Dunes Coastal Prairie

An ecologically significant dune system home to rare native plants and ground-nesting shorebirds.