Coal Oil Point Trail

Starting at the end of the Ellwood Beach Connector, on sandy Ellwood Beach, this trail heads down the coast. As you make your way along the beach you'll pass low-lying dunes and a fair amount of fenced-off areas that are designated as habitats for the snowy plover bird. After hiking for nearly 6/10 of a mile you'll reach Coal Oil Point. From here, there is a short path that bends slightly inland to a viewpoint above the beach. Take the path until you reach the interpretive displays on the coast's edge. The Coal Oil Point trail ends here and you can either return along the same route or continue down the coast to other beaches in the area.

Thanks to John McKinney, The Trailmaster, for sharing this trail description. To learn more about trails in California, check out his guides at The Trailmaster Store.

You might be able to see the rare snowy plover along the beach.