Simpson Beach and Simpson Reef to Shore Acres Gardens – Shore Acres State Park

Shore Acres State Park offers a variety you might not expect on the Pacific Coast. In addition to jagged sandstone cliffs and roaring surf, you can marvel at a large colony of marine mammals such as sea lions and elephant seals on this four-kilometer hike. And a small piece of botanical art is also waiting for you.

You start at the Simpson Reef Overlook parking lot, where you can already enjoy an impressive view of the rocky coast. This is also where numerous seabirds buzz around the coast and marine mammals bask in the sun on rocks. You can find out more about this special ecosystem on information signs. From here the path winds north along the coast to Shore Acres Gardens.

In the artfully landscaped garden you walk along manicured hedges, small ponds and colorful Japanese-style flowers. The lumber baron Louis J. Simpson had a summer house and garden built here. Just a stone's throw away is Simpson Beach. The picturesque beach is perfect for a cheesy photo and a long break before heading back along the same path.