Hike-in Required
No
ADA accessible
Yes
Guided tours
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Any visitors to Crescent Beach may want a better view of the long beach. From the overlook, Crescent Beach can be seen curving away into the distance where it meets with Crescent City. The other end of the overlook offers incredible views of the California Coast to the south and a slight glimpse of Enderts Beach. A short walk from the parking area, accessible concrete paths, and several outdoor tables make this a great place for groups to picnic and spend time gazing over the endless ocean.

From the overlook, Crescent City is usually visible on the horizon off to the north. This city has been an important area for trade for 150 years. Logging and fishing were important industries that used this port to ship and receive goods. Though the waters look pleasant, many different ocean vessels have met their demise on hidden shoals beneath the service. To prevent the loss of ships in Crescent Bay the Crescent City lighthouse and the St. George Reef were constructed.

Visitors should be cognizant when visiting Crescent Beach Overlook because some days and times just prove to be better than others. Because fog often covers Crescent Beach and the overlook during morning hours, the best times to visit prove to be later in the day after the marine fog layer has burned off. If there are storms and rain clouds in the air, they may also be shrouding the overlook, even if they are not reducing visibility at the beach. The best time to visit is on a sunny day, especially clear summer days during sunset.

From the parking area other adventures await such as a half-mile walk to Enderts Beach and Nickel Creek Camp, or further extending your hike along the California Coastal Trail.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Great views of Crescent Beach and Crescent City. Picnic area.

Cons

Limited parking. Occasionally foggy.

Pets allowed

Allowed with Restrictions

Features

Big vistas
ADA accessible

Location

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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