Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes in California 2024-2025

These coastal dunes are a site of interest for several unique reasons. Find out why!

Best time: October–February

The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes are beautiful coastal dunes with a rich history. Once this place was a shooting site for an Egyptian movie. After shooting, the set was buried in the dunes in 1923. Since that time the area of dunes has been known for the hidden relics deep beneath the surface. These are mainly grand sphinx statues and gold coins.

During the Great Depression, the Dunes were home to a group of mystics, nudists, artists, and writers who called themselves the Dunites. The area features only one hiking trail that goes south along the ocean to Mussel Rock. Except being popular among filmmakers, treasure hunters, and mystics looking for a source of energy, the dunes are also a nesting ground for western snowy plovers. Each year, part of the Dunes is closed to protect the plover's breeding and nesting habitat between March 1st and October 1st. The Dunes can be explored only outside of plover season.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes?

Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes is best visited during winter, typically between October and February. During this period, the western snowy plovers hatch and breed. From March 1st to October 1st, the area is restricted to protect the bird's habitat. Hence, it's best to visit during the winter season to enjoy the breathtaking plover sightings and also avoid the restrictions in place.

Where is the hiking trail located at the Dunes?

At the south of Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes lies a hiking trail that runs beside the ocean and leads to Mussel Rock. The hike is worth it as it offers a scenic view of the beach and the diverse flora and fauna. Ensure you carry enough water and snacks to last for several hours, as the trail takes a while to complete. Winter is the perfect period for hiking since it is neither too hot nor too cold, perfect for an exploration

What is the history behind the hidden relics buried in the dunes?

The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes is home to the remnants of the set for the Egyptian movie, 'The Ten Commandments,' shot in 1923. The buried set contains grand Sphinx statues and gold coins that have mystified tourists and treasure hunters for years. However, despite efforts to find them, none have been discovered yet. The buried relics offer a fascinating history behind the dunes that sparks interest and imagination

How do the Dunes protect the western snowy plovers and why is it important?

To safeguard the western snowy plovers, Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes restricts entry into some parts of the dune area between March 1st and October 1st. This conservation measure is crucial to protect the nesting and breeding periods of the endangered bird species. With diminishing numbers due to extensive habitat loss, preserving the bird's habitat is essential to safeguard their existence. The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes conservation effort plays a pivotal role in preserving these birds and raising awareness around conservation efforts

What activities are recommended when exploring the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes outside of plover season?

Exploring Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes beyond the western snowy plover's nesting season offers opportunities for exciting activities such as hiking, bird watching, and treasure hunting. Hiking the trails throughout the area offers a magnificent view of the landscape, including diverse flora and fauna. With various bird species in the area, bird watching is an excellent opportunity to watch and learn about different bird communities. Treasure hunting is another activity that brings excitement and maybe a chance to discover buried relics. Regardless of the time of visit, Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes offers exceptional activities worth exploring