Moonstone Beach Boardwalk – Moonstone Beach loop from Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve
Moonstone Beach Boardwalk – Moonstone Beach loop from Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve
3.5
(29)
47
runners
Moonstone Beach Boardwalk – Moonstone Beach loop from Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve
00:36
5.03km
20m
Running
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Hearst San Simeon State Park
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
611 m
Moonstone Beach Boardwalk
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.11 km
Moonstone Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
5.03 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.04 km
428 m
320 m
226 m
Surfaces
4.24 km
428 m
268 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Friday 12 June
22°C
10°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an incredibly scenic and accessible coastal jogging experience, the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk – Moonstone Beach loop from Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve is an absolute must-do. This moderate 3.1-mile (5.0 km) route, with a mere 52 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 35 minutes, making it a perfect high-payoff win for nearly everyone.
What to expect on Moonstone Beach Boardwalk – Moonstone Beach loop from Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve
As you set out, the trail begins near the Santa Rosa Creek estuary, where you might spot ducks and snowy egrets. Soon, you'll find yourself on a well-maintained wooden boardwalk, offering continuous, panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, crashing waves, and distinctive black sand beach. Keep an eye out for marine life like dolphins, seals, and even migrating whales. Numerous access points, including staircases, lead down to Moonstone Beach itself, allowing you to jog on the sand during low tide and explore tide pools. This route is consistently easy, making it ideal for all fitness levels, and even wheelchair and stroller-friendly.
Planning your visit
You can start this loop from several points along Moonstone Beach Drive, with the southern end conveniently located near the Santa Rosa Creek parking lot. The trail is incredibly flexible, allowing you to choose your starting point and direction. No special permits or fees are required, and the well-maintained boardwalk means you won't need specialized hiking shoes.
Trail details
- Distance: 3.1 miles (5.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 52 feet (16 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 35 minutes
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