Discover the Natural Beauty of Fort Ord Dunes State Park
Explore Fort Ord Dunes State Park's stunning coastal views, diverse landscapes, and rich history on California's central coast.
Fort Ord Dunes State Park is a hidden gem along California’s central coast, where nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers can immerse themselves in stunning coastal landscapes. This expansive state park boasts miles of sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you are hiking along the scenic trails or enjoying a leisurely stroll on the beach, the park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The diverse habitats within the park, including coastal scrub and wetlands, are home to a variety of wildlife, making it a prime location for birdwatching and photography. Visitors can explore the park’s well-maintained trails that wind through the dunes and along the shoreline, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. With its panoramic views and pristine environment, Fort Ord Dunes State Park is perfect for picnicking or simply relaxing while soaking in the sun. The park is also rich in history; remnants of the former military base can be found throughout the area, adding an intriguing layer to your exploration. For those looking to connect with nature, Fort Ord Dunes State Park is not just a destination but an experience that showcases the natural beauty of California. The park is open year-round, making it accessible for seasonal visits. Remember to bring your camera to capture the stunning sunsets, which are truly a sight to behold.
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.
- Bring layers, as coastal weather can change quickly throughout the day.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's designated picnic areas.
- Watch for wildlife, including various bird species, especially during early morning hours.
- Be sure to stay on marked trails to protect the delicate dune ecosystems.
A brief summary to Fort Ord Dunes State Park
- Parking lot, Beach Range Rd, Marina, California, 93933, US
- +1831-649-2836
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7 pm
- Friday 8 am-7 pm
- Saturday 8 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8 am-7 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from Salinas Valley, take US-101 North towards Marina. Merge onto CA-68 West and continue until you reach the junction for CA-1. Take the exit for CA-1 North towards San Francisco. Continue on CA-1 for approximately 6 miles. Take the exit for Reservation Rd/Beach Range Rd. Turn left onto Beach Range Rd. The Fort Ord Dunes State Park parking lot will be on your right. Note: There may be parking fees in the area, so be prepared to pay for parking.
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Public Transportation
To reach Fort Ord Dunes State Park using public transportation, take the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) bus route 81 from Salinas to Marina. The bus stop closest to the park is near the intersection of Reservation Rd and Beach Range Rd. From there, it's approximately a 20-minute walk to the park entrance. Be sure to check the MST website for current schedules and fare information. A one-way ticket typically costs around $2.50.
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Biking
For those who prefer biking, you can ride from Salinas to Fort Ord Dunes State Park. Start by heading west on East Alisal St, then turn onto South Main St to connect to the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. Follow the trail north, which will take you directly to the park entrance. The bike ride is approximately 15 miles and is mostly on dedicated bike paths. Be aware that you will need to bring your own bike and ensure it’s in good working condition.
Attractions Nearby to Fort Ord Dunes State Park
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Laguna Grande Regional Park, Monterey side
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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
Landmarks nearby to 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
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Monterey Bay Whale Watch