J V Fitzgerald Marine Reserve — Attraction in Pacifica

Great to see at low tide. Nestled along the scenic coastline of California, the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve stands as an ecological jewel, captivating visitors with its stunning beauty and diverse marine life. Spanning approximately 80 acres, this protected sanctuary is situated in Moss Beach, just 20 miles south of San Francisco, and is renowned for its commitment to conservation and education.

The reserve boasts a wealth of marine habitats, including tide pools, rocky shorelines, and sandy beaches, providing a haven for an array of marine species. Visitors are treated to a mesmerizing display of vibrant sea stars, anemones, crabs, and other fascinating creatures that thrive in the intertidal zone. Furthermore, the area attracts migratory birds, offering birdwatchers an opportunity to observe various avian species in their natural habitat.

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve embraces a holistic approach to environmental stewardship, encouraging sustainable practices and promoting public awareness through educational programs. Guided tours and interpretive displays help visitors understand the delicate balance of this marine ecosystem and the significance of safeguarding its integrity.

Whether one is an avid nature enthusiast, a curious student, or simply seeking tranquility amid nature's wonders, the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve promises an unforgettable experience, fostering a profound appreciation for the coastal treasures California has to offer. As visitors explore its shores, they become part of a collective effort to protect this precious coastal gem for...

Absolutely beautiful. Main (?) tide pool area was closed for seal pupping (!!) but gave directions on how to go to a separate tide pool area. You can drive like three minutes away or take a 10 minute walk along the coast - highly recommend the walk. Trees on one side, breathtaking coast on the other. AND if you follow the coast and squint, you'll see the seals loafing about with what I think were their pups? At that distance it was kind of like watching large potatoes with slightly smaller potatoes lie unmoving on the rocks. But they are definitely seals.

The tide pools are stunning. Definitely check the tide chart via googling to see when tide is lowest to get the most access - for us it was about 5:20 PM. There were some kids who were stomping around and kicking inside the tide pools on the little crabs and stuff, which I'm not gonna lie it tested me and my self control lol, but thankfully there was a ranger asking them and their very disengaged parents a second later to stop. Please watch your children and be respectful.

We saw so many anemones, some little fish, TONS of adorable little hermit crabs, some actual crab crabs, and some pelicans (?). Didn't stay too long because we had a longer drive. Careful walking on the bright green algae on the rocks, it's slippery. I was horrified when I realized the gummy goo in between rocks were actually anemone out of the water, so I would google what those look like before before...

We went when it was close to low tide, at 2ft, and there was a good amount of exposed tidepools. I read it can go as low as -1ft here which would've been even better, but we were able to find many sea anemones, snails, hermit crabs, and crabs. No sea stars, but I will try coming back when it gets really low. There is a small parking lot, and street parking. We went around 9am and there were available parking spots in the parking lot. When we left at about an hour later, it was full.

Watch out and do not pass the orange cones the ranger puts up - it keeps you and the harbor seals at safe distances from each other. I didnt see any harbor seals as we looked at tidepools, but when we went walking along the trails that take you above the tidepool area (and into a magnificent grove of trees), we saw some harbor seals lying on exposed rock in the water.

Make sure to wear some layers, some anti-skid shoes, and bring a change of pants and towels,...