This partner hike takes place at Drakes Beach in Point Reyes, and is led by Drakes Navigator's Guild.
Take a hike to visit the estuary and bay along the southern coast of Point Reyes peninsula, the landfall of Francis Drake's Golden Hind in 1579.
The earliest written historic site in northern California – the landing place of Francis Drake in 1579.
Many historic “firsts” occurred here. These include the first meetings between Englishmen and Native Americans, the first Protestant service in the future USA, and the application of “New England” to the land, years before Plymouth, Roanoke or Jamestown.
The site is nearly unchanged in four and one-half centuries, but few people get to the location.
The hike starts with a 30 to 40 minute talk about the history and how Drake got to California.
Then, it’s a 1-1/2 mile walk down a hard-packed beach to the site. Participants can return at their own pace.
Four dates throughout the Summer:
Saturday, June 14, 2025 10:30 AM
Saturday, July 19, 2025 10:30 AM
Saturday, August 16, 2025 10:30 AM
Sunday, September 14, 2025 10:30 AM
Schedule:
10:30 AM - meet at Point Reyes National Seashore’s Drake’s Beach Ken Patrick Visitor Center for a 30-40 minute presentation on the history of Drake, the era, the voyage and the ship. (Check your visitor center – hikers often go to the wrong visitor center!)
11:15 AM - depart on hike. Hike to Drake’s Cove – Drake’s landing site with discussion along the way.
Approx. 1:30 PM –Arrive back at Drake’s Beach
Bring:
· A lunch. No services will likely be available at Drake’s Beach.
· Comfortable walking shoes. Most of the hike is along the hard-sand beach.
· Layers of jackets & ample clothing. It can be warm, almost hot, or quite windy and cold.
· Backpack with sunscreen, water, snacks, camera.
· Per NPS regulations, no dogs: contact NPS for details.
Questions, Please Contact: Mike Von der Porten (707) 525-1625 or mikevdpca@aim.com.
This is a free public hike being offered by the Drake Navigators Guild!