Everything You Need to Know About Hiking to Alamere Falls
Updated June 26 2025
Alamere Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in all of Northern California. It drops straight into the ocean, which already makes it rare. But what makes it special is how remote it feels. The only way to get there is on foot.
If you’ve seen the photos and wondered if it’s worth it, the answer is yes.
Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Where Is Alamere Falls?
Alamere Falls is tucked into Point Reyes National Seashore, right off the coast of Marin County. It’s part of the Phillip Burton Wilderness, which means no roads, no shortcuts. Just hiking.
The falls pour over a cliff directly onto Wildcat Beach. You get ocean views, wildflowers, and cliffs that feel like they belong in Big Sur.
One of Two “Tidefall” Waterfalls in California.
This is one of two waterfalls in California that empty into the ocean. During high tide the waterfall is not accessible so look up the tide before heading out there.
Watch Video Below
Lack of Service
There is a good chance that you will not have cellphone reception in the Highway 1 area so make sure to download any maps you might need beforehand. I would also take screenshots of your map(s) so you can have them.
Also remember to bring a light sweater. The temperature changes throughout the hike.
How to Get to Alamere Falls
You start at the Palomarin Trailhead in Bolinas. Plug that into your GPS.
The full roundtrip hike is about 13 miles. You’ll pass lakes, forest, ocean views, and then finally make your way down to the beach where the waterfall is.
Plan to spend a full day on this. It is long but not super steep. Bring water. Bring snacks. Wear layers.
Steep Cliffs
These cliffs, while offering mesmerizing vistas of the rugged coastline and the endless expanse of the sea, also present a real safety concern, especially for those with young children. The Palomarin Trail does not have guardrails or fences along these steep drop-offs, which means that hikers need to exercise caution and be extremely mindful of their surroundings. For this reason, it’s worth emphasizing that this hike may not be suitable for families with small children or individuals who are uncomfortable with heights or exposed trails.
The Terrain
One of the things I enjoyed most about this hike was the ever changing terrain. You will go from wide open areas with sun beaming on your face to densely wooded areas with virtually no light and everything in between. Some areas are wet and some areas are dry, the terrain is constantly changing mile after mile.
Don’t Take The Shortcut
There used to be an unofficial shortcut that cut through the cliffside and took you straight to the falls. In the video we took that route, but that was years ago and it is no longer advisable.
It has been closed due to erosion and is considered dangerous. Stick to the main trail. It is longer, but safer and still beautiful the whole way through.
Tips Before You Go
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Arrive early: The parking lot fills up fast
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No cell service: Download your map ahead of time
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Wear shoes you can get wet: You’ll walk on sand and near water
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Check tides: You don’t want to get stuck at the beach when the tide comes in
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