Stretching from Malibu to the Mexican border, Southern California's coast is justifiably famous, yet, as this essential guide reveals, it offers more to see and do than even its greatest fans may realize. Easy-to-use, up-to-date, and comprehensive, Beaches and Parks in Southern California is the perfect companion for all visitors—sightseers, hikers, swimmers, surfers, campers, birders, boaters, and anglers—who want to explore this magnificent shoreline. In addition to well-known beaches of soft, golden sand, it describes rocky shores and tide pools, hidden pocket beaches, historic lighthouses, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, and much more.

* More than 450 site listings include beaches, public access ways, parks, campgrounds, nature preserves, world-class aquariums, and museums

* 304 color photographs and 52 color maps show recreational sites, hiking and biking trails, topography, and other features of the region and state

* Easy-to-use charts list key facilities and features, open hours, food and beverage services, wheelchair accessibility, rules about dogs, and other practical information

About the Author

The California Coastal Commission was created by the voters of California, who adopted an initiative measure in 1972 that formed the Commission and gave it broad powers to plan and protect the coast. Later, the California Coastal Act of 1976 established the Commission as a permanent state agency with a mission to protect, maintain, and enhance the quality of the coastal environment. One of the Commission's principal goals is to maintain public access and public recreational opportunities along the coast, in a manner consistent with environmental preservation.

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California Coastal Commission

Reviews

“This is the volume to toss in the back of your Volkswagen bus with the folding chair, the Mexican blanket, the Frisbee and your lucky old abalone shell. . . . It will answer all your questions about fat innkeeper worms, the romantic impulses of Richard Henry Dana Jr., and why you can run faster than you swim.”
— Los Angeles Times “Books To Go”

“Anyone planning a drive down the California coast should take one, or all, of these books along.”
— Portland Oregonian

“An ideal guide for the getaway season.”
— Chico Enterprise-Record

“The guide will tell you where to camp, where to find a bathroom, where to view wildlife, where to park and when fees are charged.”
— Placerville Mountain Democrat

“The ideal guide for your coastal adventuring. . . . Keep this book in your car and you’ll never be at a loss about where to go.”
— Aptos Times

"An outstanding guidebook for anyone who wants to explore Southern California's beaches, coastal parks, museums, and aquariums. It's packed with useful information to help you plan trips to experience this region's rich and varied coastal offerings. Brief vignettes of coastal habitats and ecosystems, information on coastal plants and animal, and suggestions for caring for our coast are an added bonus."—Jerry R. Schubel, President, Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach

"Whether you're a casual beachcomber or a serious coast watcher, this guidebook offers insightful writing, detailed maps, and a wealth of local knowledge. It's packed with well-researched information on coastal science, history, and beach culture."—Terry Rodgers, former writer for the San Diego Union-Tribune