Asilomar sand dune walk

Question

Hello,

I am trying to find information about where to park in order to walk on the sand dune trail at Asilomar. Do I park at the conference center or is that reserved for guests? Open to any advice for a beautiful walk!

Thank you!

Answer

Visiting the Asilomar sand dunes in Pacific Grove is a wonderful idea for a scenic and relatively easy walk, especially if you enjoy coastal views and natural dune landscapes.

Regarding parking and trail access, here’s what you should know:

Asilomar Conference Grounds Parking: The main parking lots at the Asilomar Conference Center are primarily reserved for registered guests of the conference center. Public parking in these lots is usually not available unless you are attending an event.
Alternative Public Parking: There are public parking areas along Asilomar Avenue and nearby streets in Pacific Grove. From these spots, you can easily access the dunes trail via short walks along designated paths. Early arrival is recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Beach Access: The sand dune trail connects to the Asilomar State Beach and Pacific Grove shoreline. You can often park near the public beach access points, which provide easy entry to the dune walk without entering private conference grounds.
Walking Tips: The dunes trail is relatively flat but sandy, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Bring water and a hat, as coastal winds and sun exposure can be stronger than expected.

Additional Suggestions for a Beautiful Walk:

Consider combining the dunes trail with the Asilomar Coastal Trail for longer walks and panoramic ocean views.
Sunrise or late afternoon is ideal for lighting and fewer crowds, making the walk especially scenic.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for shorebirds, gulls, and occasional marine life along the shoreline.

In summary, avoid parking at the conference center unless you are a guest. Use nearby public parking along Asilomar Avenue or at beach access points, and enjoy a beautiful, leisurely walk through the sand dunes and along the coast.

Asilomar sand dune walk

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