Año Nuevo Point Trail

Head down the coast via State Route 1 to the Año Nuevo Point Trail. Explore the lush coastal headlands before plunging down to the sandy beach often decorated with lounging seals. Due to its proximity to the ocean, hikers can expect windy and foggy conditions—dress in layers as insurance against changing weather! Note this route is subject to wildlife closure to protect the elephant seals during the breeding season.

Setting out from the trailhead, the Año Nuevo Point Trail wanders east to an intersection where you will also notice shipwreck remains. Here, keep left and track south, passing a pond and climbing back up the headlands. Continue hiking southwest, and you will reach the viewing area of the elephant seals playing on the beach below. Following the path, keeping left at the next junction, the path will eventually direct you north, past Bight Beach and up to North Point.

At this point, turn around and retrace your footing along the Año Nuevo Point Trail, this time keeping left at the junction. Retrace your steps along the coastline, veering left along the Upper Pond Trail and back onto the Año Nuevo Point Trail, delivering you back to the trailhead.