Explore the Natural Beauty of Fort Ord Dunes State Park
Discover the breathtaking coastal views and diverse ecosystems of Fort Ord Dunes State Park, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
A brief summary to Fort Ord Dunes State Park
- Parking lot, Beach Range Rd, Marina, California, 93933, US
- +1831-649-2836
Fort Ord Dunes State Park is a stunning coastal destination located in California that showcases the natural beauty of the region. This expansive park features miles of sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. As you explore the park, you'll discover a variety of ecosystems, from coastal scrub to wetlands, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike. The park is an excellent spot for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying picnics with family and friends. Visitors can also take advantage of the beach access to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or beachcombing along the shore. The park's trails are well-maintained and provide excellent opportunities for both casual walkers and serious hikers, with paths that wind through the dunes and offer stunning vistas of the coastline. Additionally, the park is rich in history, as it was once part of the Fort Ord military installation, and remnants of this past can still be seen throughout the area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an active day of outdoor adventures, Fort Ord Dunes State Park is a must-visit destination that promises a memorable experience for tourists of all ages. Don't forget your camera to capture the spectacular sunsets that illuminate the sky with vibrant colors as the day comes to a close.
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience before the crowds.
- Bring layers as coastal weather can change rapidly, and it's often cooler near the ocean.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach or at one of the scenic overlooks.
- Don't forget your binoculars for birdwatching; the area is home to many migratory species.
- Check local tide schedules if you plan to explore the tide pools along the beach.
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.
Attractions Nearby to Fort Ord Dunes State Park
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Monterey Bay Sight Point
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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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Sanctuary
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Monterey Walking Tours Cannery Row tour start
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San Carlos Beach Park
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Monterey Bay Park
Landmarks nearby to Fort Ord Dunes State Park
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Fort Ord Dunes State Park
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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