Discover the Coastal Beauty of Fort Ord Dunes State Park
Experience stunning coastal views, diverse wildlife, and outdoor adventures at Fort Ord Dunes State Park, a must-visit destination on California's beautiful coastline.
Fort Ord Dunes State Park is a breathtaking coastal haven in California, offering stunning ocean views, diverse wildlife, and miles of sandy beaches. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, this state park invites you to explore its picturesque landscapes and enjoy a variety of recreational activities.
A brief summary to Fort Ord Dunes State Park
- Parking lot, Beach Range Rd, Marina, California, 93933, US
- +1831-649-2836
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography and to avoid crowds.
- Bring layers, as coastal weather can change quickly, and it can be breezy even on warmer days.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially during migration seasons when many birds are passing through.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the beach, but remember to carry out all trash.
- Check for any scheduled events or ranger-led programs that might enhance your visit.
Getting There
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Bus
From downtown Monterey, head to the nearest bus stop at Alvarado St / Del Monte Ave. Take the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) bus route 1 towards Salinas. You will travel approximately 20 minutes. Get off at the stop 'Marina / Reservation Rd.' Once you alight, walk north along Reservation Rd for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Beach Range Rd. Turn left onto Beach Range Rd and continue walking for another 0.5 miles until you arrive at the Fort Ord Dunes State Park entrance.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Monterey. Start your journey from Cannery Row and head east on Ocean View Blvd. Then, take the bike path that leads you towards the bike route on Del Monte Ave. Continue on Del Monte Ave until you reach Reservation Rd. Turn left onto Reservation Rd and follow to the intersection with Beach Range Rd. Turn left and bike approximately 0.5 miles to reach Fort Ord Dunes State Park.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, you can start your journey at the Monterey Wharf. Walk along the scenic coastal path towards Cannery Row. From there, head to the intersection of Lighthouse Ave and Del Monte Ave. Continue on Del Monte Ave until you reach Reservation Rd. Turn left onto Reservation Rd, and walk for about 1 mile. At the intersection with Beach Range Rd, turn left and continue walking for another 0.5 miles until you reach Fort Ord Dunes State Park.
Discover more about Fort Ord Dunes State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monterey State Beach
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Monterey County Fairgrounds
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Monterey Harbor
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Sea Otters
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The Open Sea
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InterContinental The Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel
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John Steinbeck Statuary
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Monterey Bay Habitats
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Pacific Biological Laboratories (Doc’s Lab)
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John Steinbeck Memorial
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Monterey Canning Company
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Cannery Row Caboose
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monumento a John Steinbeck
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Cannery Row Worker Shacks
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Monterey Bay Whale Watch
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Unmissable attractions to see
Handcar Tours
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Marina State Beach
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Laguna Grande Regional Park, Monterey side
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Monterey Bay Sight Point
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700 Cannery Row
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Coast Guard Pier
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Treasure Hunt: The Ride
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McAbee Beach
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Monterey Bay Aquarium: Seafood Watch Program
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Cannery Row Monument
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Monterey Bay Aquarium
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Cannery Row
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Monterey Mirror Maze
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Plaza de Monterey
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Watching Over Me
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Essential places to dine
Tides Waterfront Kitchen
6.4 km
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Black Bear Diner Monterey
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Monterey's Fish House
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Monterey Cookhouse
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A Taste of Monterey - Wine Market & Bistro
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El Torito
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Fish Hopper
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Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
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Aquarium Cafe
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Chart House
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Louie Linguini's
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Lalla Grill Oceanside
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Sly McFly's
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The C Restaurant + Bar
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Osteria Al Mare
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique International Bazaar
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Monterey's Finest Apparel
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Ocean Discovery Store
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Memories
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Gift and Book Store
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California Classics
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The Pebble Beach Outlet Shop
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Sand and Sea
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Sea Otter Shirts
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Steinbeck Plaza
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Mackerel Jack's Trading Co
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Enlightenment Zone
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Gift Shop | Monterey Bay Aquarium
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LOLA Monterey
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Kristonio's
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
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The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
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The Wine Experience
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Del Monte Bar & Grill
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Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
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Pearl Hour
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Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
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Bulldog Sports Pub
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London Bridge Pub
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Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
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Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
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The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Court's Lounge
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Cedar Room
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The Vesper
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Tessora's Barra di Vino
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Cardiff & Cocktails
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