Marina Dunes Preserve

Marina Dunes Preserve is a coastal dune habitat managed by the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District, located off Reservation Road in Marina. It was once an abandoned sand-mining site, but since its acquisition in 1988, restoration efforts have aimed to rehabilitate native vegetation, stabilize shifting sands, and provide access to the beach via a controlled dune corridor. The preserve trails wind through dune shrubs, restored habitat zones, and foredune ridges, acting as a transactional buffer between coastal marine zones and island areas. The site provides public access to the shoreline while protecting sensitive dunes and wildlife habitats. Dogs are welcome on leash only and visitors are asked to stay on designated trails to protect the fragile ecosystem.

• A natural surface dune trail leads from a parking lot through dune vegetation toward the beach

• Trail connects to Marina Dunes Beach, providing a path through dune corridors to the sand

• Wide coastal views, wind-sculpted dunes, and a sense of open sky and horizon

• Educational markers explaining dune ecology, restoration efforts, and preservation rules

What to expect

When you visit Marina Dunes Preserve, you can expect a quiet, contemplative dune walk that transitions you from inland terrain to the shoreline. The trail begins at the parking area and ascends over dune ridges, passing through patches of native shrubs, restored vegetation, and interpretive zones. As you walk, the path gently undulates over dunes, occasionally exposing sandier stretches or wind-blown ridges. The dune topography gives you vantage points where the ocean ahead opens into the view and you may sense shifting breezes and coastal smells. Because the preserve protects fragile dune habitat, the walk is relatively narrow and somewhat rustic, not paved or heavily manicured, so expect soft sand, wind-eroded spots, and a natural trail surface. Wildlife is subtle, but present; dune plants, small birds, and insects may be observed. As you reach the beach access at the end, the land opens into the shoreline, giving you the reward of sea views and access to sand, though dog access must respect the preserve rules. The ambience is calm, restorative, and rooted in coastal ecology rather than park amenities.

Tips for visiting

• Dogs must remain on leash at all times within the preserve

• Bring your own water and portable bowl for refreshments

• Secure shoes are best for sandy and uneven natural surfaces

• Respect any posted closures, wildlife protection zones, and seasonal limits

• There are no trail-side trashcans, so carry out all pet waste

• Access is from dawn to dusk

Send your dog on an adventure

Don’t have time to take your dog to Marina Dunes Preserve? Trust Monterey’s original dog adventure guides with showing your companion the best that the Monterey Peninsula has to offer by booking a Dog Adventure!