Hiking with your dog in a national park? Almost unheard of! But Point Reyes National Seashore has an easy and short hiking trail to a stunning beach that’s dog-friendly on its north side. Kehoe Beach is a beautiful place to hang out even if you don’t have a dog.

On Pierce Point Road just a couple miles past the popular Abbots Lagoon trailhead, you’ll find Kehoe Beach. There isn’t much in the way of parking, so get there early (or late) if it’s a busy weekend. The half-mile hike to Kehoe Beach is flat, but be prepared: it’s quite overgrown in sections (all in, it’s manageable, if a bit cumbersome).

The upside is the scenery as you make your way to the beach. This past winter’s heavy rain has super-powered vegetation growth, including thick greenery, wildflower scenery, and the vibrant but vexing nonnative wild mustard blooms.

Within about 20 minutes of walking you reach wide-open Kehoe Beach, with its mercurial ocean waters (be mindful that while it can look rather tame at times, the water here has a strong and dangerous undertow, plus sharks and sneaker waves…). It’s more a place to stroll the beach, not to go for a swim.

To the south, Point Reyes Beach stretches 11 miles to the headlands. To the north enjoy views of ancient rocks. There are plenty of sand dunes to find a little privacy and cover from winds. Spread a blanket, then hang out and watch the sea from a perch above the beautiful setting.