Schooner Gulch State Beach in Mendocino County is a perfect spot for watching a sunset or enjoying a beach picnic. Its iconic sandstone "bowling balls" attract thousands of visitors every year. It's located 5 km (3 mi) south of Point Arena on California Highway 1.
According to a local legend, Schooner Gulch is named after a schooner that was stranded on this beach in the mouth of the gulch. Perfectly round sand stones about two to three feet in diameter cause rumours about their alien or dinosaur origin, but in reality, they were formed due to a geological phenomenon called “concretion” and erosion. Bowling Ball Beach was created by sand, water, and wind over million years to become one California's most frequently photographed beaches. The stones can be observed at their best during low tide as at high tide the beach is not accessible and the sand stones are covered by water.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Bowling Ball Beach in California?
If you want to avoid getting your feet wet, it is recommended that you visit Bowling Ball Beach during low tide. The beach is accessible during this time, providing ample space for visitors to walk between the famous stones. Since California enjoys a year-round perfect climate, tourists can enjoy this beach anytime they want. Show more
Why are the stones on Bowling Ball Beach perfectly round?
The unique shape of the stones at Bowling Ball Beach is attributed to the formation process that happened over several million years. During the process of concretion, cement and sand grains formed a hard shell that covered the original sediment layer. The concretion then eroded over time, resulting in the rounded shape of the stones that we see today on the beach. Show more
What is the closest town or city to Schooner Gulch State Beach?
Mendocino County is home to Schooner Gulch State Beach, located 5 km south of Point Arena. Visitors can head to the nearby Gualala town to reach the beach. Travellers can enjoy the stunning Pacific coastline by driving north on Highway 1 or taking a car ride on routes 28 and 46 to reach the beach easily. Show more
How long has it taken for the unique round stones to form on Bowling Ball Beach?
The rare round stones found at Bowling Ball Beach are believed to have taken millions of years to form naturally. The geological process known as concretion resulted in a hard shell that covered the sediment layer over a long period. Tourists can't miss these unique stones when they visit the beach, which attracts thousands of people every year. Show more
Where is the nearest parking area for visitors to Schooner Gulch State Beach?
The beach parking lot is one parking area that visitors can take advantage of. Gualala Point Regional Park is also available and offers restroom facilities, picnic tables, and a visitor centre for tourists. Upon arriving at either location, visitors can take a short hike to the beach and enjoy all that the beach has to offer. Show more
