Enderts beach tops the list for beaches located on the Redwood Coast. Given that you have to take a hike to enter the beach from Enderts Beach Road, we found that it is a lot more secluded than other beaches in the area. This beach is known for its tide pools and whale watching. There is so much natural beauty in the Redwood National Park area, and Enderts Beach does not disappoint.
Enderts beach is part of the 70 mile Coastal Trail that the Redwoods area is known for. There are many opportunities along the trail to plan a day hike, and we chose to start at the Crescent Beach Overlook and take the trail to the beach.
Making the Way to Enderts Beach
Just South of Crescent City, California on US-101 is the entrance to Enderts Beach Road. The road leads to the Crescent Beach Overlook. The Overlook gives you a glimpse from above of the sandy shores. After passing the Overlook, the road ends in a small parking area. The Last Chance Section of the California Coastal Trail is located here along with the path leading down to the beach itself.
Trail to the Beach
The relatively easy hike down to the beach is a little less than a mile. The first part of the hike is full of small trees and bushes lining your way. We happened to come across a couple small snakes, that seemed harmless enough.
After passing the shrubby area, there is a switchback that takes you on the path to the beach. This area has some pretty foliage including tons of berries and wildflowers. Eventually you catch the views of the Pacific Ocean as the path descends on to Enderts Beach.
Enderts Beach
The beach has a remote, undisturbed feeling as you make your way out onto the sand. Driftwood lines the shore. It’s astonishing how clean and natural this area is, and it kind of makes you feel like you are at the edge of the world.
There are several large rocks, and tiny caves to explore in the area. We experienced Enderts Beach during high tide, but during low tide plenty of pools are said to be present. Its not uncommon to find starfish, sea anenomes, and urchins at Enderts Beach.
To plan your visit around the tides, check out this Tide Chart for the Endert’s beach area.
This stretch of the California Coast is stunning. Whether you are looking to peacefully sunbathe, or spot some wildlife, this place delivers. We chose to spend our time watching birds dive for their lunch, and making sandcastles.
Eventually the tide continued to roll in and we made our way to the top of some coastal rocks. On this overcast day the waves were big, and pounding the shoreline. During our two hour stay at the beach, we only came across one other traveler. Enderts Beach offers a stunning coastline with spectacular views. We found our way back up to our truck camper, which was just as simple as our trip down to the spectacular beach.
For more ideas of what this area has to offer, check out the Visit California website.