Heart's Desire Beach is a sheltered cove on Tomales Bay and the developed center of Tomales Bay State Park, off Pierce Point Road. The bay water is calmer and somewhat warmer than the ocean-facing beaches of Point Reyes.
Details
- Type
- Point of Interest
- Accessibility
- Limited accessibility
Overview
Heart's Desire Beach is the hub of Tomales Bay State Park, which also includes the park's ranger station and the Vista Point picnic area. The shoreline has shallow, calm areas suited to wading and water play, with a marked swimming area indicated by orange floats in summer. No lifeguard is on duty. Facilities at the beach include a picnic area with barbecues, dressing rooms, and flush toilets.
Nearby Beaches
Easy trails connect Heart's Desire to the less-developed Pebble, Shell, and Indian beaches along the bay.
Know Before You Go
A per-vehicle entrance fee applies for parking at Heart's Desire Beach and Vista Point. The park is open from 8 am to sunset. Dogs are not permitted on any beaches or trails in this area. Visitation is heavy, and the lots often fill by mid-morning on weekends.