Two whales in the ocean.

May in Point Reyes

Whale Migration

Pacific Gray Whales are migrating north in May, from their warm protected nursery grounds in Baja to their hunting grounds in Alaska. They are closest to short on their northern migration, and accompanied by their calf. This is the time of year they are easiest to spot.

Harbor Seals 

Silvery speckled Harbor Seals are pupping in May. You can spot them sunning themselves en masse at Point Reyes Headland, and on pocket beaches along the coast. 

Western Snowy Plovers

The breeding season for Snowy Plovers in Point Reyes goes from March-September. Please be extra careful not to disturb their nesting grounds. You can learn more about Snowy Plovers and the ongoing conservation efforts in Point Reyes here.

Spring Wildflowers

May is the peak of Point Reyes wildflower season. Enjoy the abundant display, but please don’t disturb or pick the flowers — they are protected by law.

Open Studios

Point Reyes is well knows for its thriving arts community. Every Memorial Day Weekend, local artists open their studios to the public. You can find the list of artists and current route map here

Live Music

Venues offering live music this month include Tony’s Seafood, Rancho Nicasio, Papermill Creek Saloon, Smiley’s Saloon and Nick’s Cove.

May Featured Hike

Bear Valley-Glen-Coast Loop

Map of hiking area in Point Reyes.

May’s featured hike takes you through Douglas fir forest to an ocean lookout where you may be able to spot Pacific Gray whales migrating north from their birthing grounds this time of year. Keep an eye out for cows and calves close to shore. 

Hike Details

9.8 miles
You can also bike part of this route

For complete details on this hike, a detailed map, lots of trail photos — plus plants and animals you’ll spot on this trail, go to:

https://www.pointreyesnature.com/glen-trail

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Before planning your trip and activities in Point Reyes, it’s important to check for road, trail and beach closures. 

Closures can be complete or partial, and can happen for a variety of reasons such as weather or protecting vulnerable wildlife at specific times in their breeding cycles. 

Find the latest information on current conditions at Point Reyes here.

Things to do and eat in Point Reyes: May

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Tap Room bar counter.
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New Skye Band

Stay In Point Reyes

Bedroom opens onto Tomales Bay.

Coal and Feed

The Coal and Feed is one of the most romantic luxury vacation rentals in the Bay Area. It sits directly over Tomales Bay, offering spectacular…

Bed with views of trees and sky out of windows.

Point Reyes Station Inn B&B

A romantic dog-friendly Bed and Breakfast Inn walking distance to downtown Point Reyes Station, featuring a lush garden courtyard, private balconies and in-room fireplaces.

Two deck chairs looking out to a view of the sky, rolling hills, and a tree.

Black Heron Inn

The Black Heron Inn has three huge guest suites that look out on one of the most spectacular views of any Point Reyes inn. Look…

Interior of Farmer's Parlor with bed and wood burning stove.

Olema Cottages

Tons of privacy and space, these gorgeous cottages are close to everything you love about Pt Reyes. A top choice for a comfortable, extended retreat…

Woman in a bedroom with windows and large bed.

The Nest

Enjoy the best views on the property — and there’s no one watching you back! Inspiring enough to start writing your memoirs from the big…

Point Reyes birdwatching guide, binoculars, tea.

Inverness Ridge Bed & Breakfast: Bay Room

Soaring vaulted ceiling, tall picture window looking out into the vast treeline of Inverness Ridge. Delicious organic breakfast and afternoon tea, cheese and wine on…

Living room with deck facing Tomales Bay and Point Reyes.

Inverness: Walt’s Cottage

Stay in this romantic one bedroom cottage in Inverness, right on the water. Incredible views of Tomales Bay from every room, and a sunny deck…

Point Reyes Bed and Breakfast with fireplace and balcony.

Point Reyes Bed & Breakfast: Victorian Room

Vaulted ceilings, in-room fireplace, balcony looking out to Black Mountain. Walking distance to downtown Point Reyes Station dining and shopping.

Dining table with view of Inverness Ridge and Tomales Bay.

Point Reyes: Ridge View

You’ll never tire of the views and wide open sky when you stay on the Point Reyes Mesa. This large guest suite just outside of…

Woman walking down stairs with paintings on the back wall.

Cypress Cottage

Open and light filled space for dancing and doing yoga while your frittata bakes in the oven. Bring an art project and a best friend.

Bedroom with bed, hat and personal items on bed, paintings of birds on the wall.

Sunflower Cottage

You’ll feel like you’re the only one on the property. Get up late (who will know?!) and drink your coffee outside in your PJ’s in…

Bedroom with balcony.

Point Reyes Station B&B: Satinwood

A huge sunny room with your own fireplace, balcony and a big spa tub to relax after your hike. Walk to restaurants and Farmer’s Market.

View of Tomales Bay and Inverness Ridge from sunny deck.

Point Reyes Station: Bay View Room

A large guest suite with unforgettable views of Tomales Bay and Inverness Ridge. Hang out on the sunny deck with a glass of wine and…

Bedroom opens onto Tomales Bay.

Coal and Feed

The Coal and Feed is one of the most romantic luxury vacation rentals in the Bay Area. It sits directly over Tomales Bay, offering spectacular…

Woman sitting at a table with wine and snacks.

Farmer’s Parlor

It’s your own private happy hour with a big sky over grazing horses every night at sunset from your glassed-in porch. After that, leap into…

Living room with fireplace and deck with view of Tomales Bay.

Inverness Waterfront Lodging: Smitty’s Cottage

A beautifully furnished one bedroom cottage in the tiny village of Inverness, right on the shores of Tomales Bay.