Carmel River State Beach


Carmel River State Beach is a state park unit in Carmel, California, United States, featuring a protected beach with a lagoon formed by the Carmel River. The lagoon attracts many migratory birds. The state beach includes Monastery Beach, which is popular with scuba divers. Sea kayakers also frequent the beach, which has easy access to the natural reserves of Point Lobos. The park was established in 1953.

History

In 1602 Spanish explorer Sebastián Vizcaíno landed at this beach. Gaspar de Portolà, during the Portola expedition, was encamped on this beach and rested here before deciding to return to San Diego because of low supplies and having failed to rendezvous with the Spanish supply ships. A cross commemorating the landing is on the beach.

Recreational activities

Carmel River State Beach is a popular spot for divers and kayakers, who can access the notable kelp forests in the area. It is also popular with birders, and is a stop on the Central Coast Birding Trail. The best seasons for birdwatching at Carmel River State Beach are fall and winter.
Swimming on this section of the coast can be extremely dangerous because of the strong currents. Carmel River State Beach is considered especially dangerous for swimming, as the steep drop-off from shore can minimize turbulent waves, giving the mistaken impression of a calm sea.

Location

The park is located adjacent to California State Route 1, about one mile south of Rio Road at the mouth of Carmel Valley, north of the Big Sur coast in Monterey County, California.

Government

At the county level, Carmel River State Beach is represented on the Monterey County Board of Supervisors by Supervisor Dave Potter.
In the California State Legislature, Carmel River State Beach is in, and in.
In the United States House of Representatives, Carmel River State Beach is in.