Beaches, Parks and Research

BEACHES AND PARKS

Salinas River State Beach • 831-649-2836 • parks.ca.gov

This is the beach at the Salinas River mouth, located at the south end of Moss Landing. The beach and dunes are part of Monterey Bay’s unique coastal dune system and it is home to many species of birds, including the California brown pelican, red-tailed hawk, American kestrel, western snowy plover, western gull, black phoebe, western scrub-jay, California towhee, white-crowned sparrow, and more. The beach is a popular fishing site.

Zmudowski State Beach • 831-649-2836 • parks.ca.gov

This beach is a popular fishing area, featuring perch, king fish, sole, flounder, halibut, bocaccio (tomcod), jacksmelt, lingcod, cabezon, salmon, steelhead and occasional rockfish. It features the Pajaro River estuary. The sandy beach is also popular with bird watchers and equestrians. Horses are only allowed near the waterline. Swimming and water sports are hazardous because of strong rip-currents. Dogs are not allowed at this location.

RESEARCH