Shell Beach is located on Tomales Bay near the popular Tomales Bay State Park. This beach is quite secluded and can only be reached by foot or boat thus it is perfect for those beach goers who also enjoy a good hike or boat ride. One option for hiking is to start at Heart Desire Beach and head south for 4 miles (6.4 km). The second option is to drive to the parking lot at the end of Camino del Mar road and walk north about a 1/4 mile (0.4 km). Tomales Bay's main source of water is from the Pacific Ocean thus Shell Beach is a salt water beach. Shell Beach is great for swimming as Tomales Bay provides shelter from wind and creates a warmer area of water. Often there is a raft off shore for those who want to swim out and take a break basking in the sun. There are few amenities near this beach thus it is a good idea to bring your own food, water and any other supplies for a successful day at the beach. Dogs/pets are strictly prohibited at Shell Beach.

The description above was copied from or heavily based on Swim Guide, with permission.

More Information

• Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for Shell Beach and 8,000 other beaches.