This Unique, Must-See Beach May Be The Most Bizarre In California

California is renowned for its beaches — from the sun-kissed shores of Malibu to the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, the Golden State has no shortage of coastal beauty. But sometimes, the beach lovers' heart yearns for something different from the typical crystal-clear waters and cabana bars. How about beach and bowling? Up north in Mendocino County is a beach unlike any other: Bowling Ball Beach. The oddball name speaks for itself; this unique, must-see destination may be the most bizarre beach in California, if not in all of America. 

Bowling Ball Beach, part of Schooner Gulch State Beach near Port Arena (one of the best beach towns in California), is a geological marvel that captivates visitors with its unusual rock formations. Round boulders resembling oversized bowling balls, known as "concretions," are scattered across this Pacific Ocean beach. Concretions have always puzzled people — speculations of their origin range from extraterrestrial debris to dinosaur fossils. However, geology has the answer: Formed over millions of years, concretions result from the binding of sand, stone, and coral around a core of organic material, typically sedimentary rock.

The consistent and nearly perfect spherical shape of these boulders — measuring between two to three feet in diameter — is what makes Bowling Ball Beach so extraordinary. Concretions are a rare and strange natural wonder of the world, but you can find them in a few other places, like Mushroom State Park in Kansana, Cannonball River in North Dakota, and the very aptly named Valley of Balls in Kazakhstan.

Timing your visit to Bowling Ball Beach is crucial to fully appreciate its unique features. The best time to visit is during low or negative tide when the receding water reveals the boulders in their full glory. At high tide, most, if not all, of the rocks are submerged, making it difficult to see the impressive formations and walk along the beach. Before planning your trip, check the tide schedules to ensure you arrive during low tide. Entry to Bowling Ball Beach is free.

For photographers, Bowling Ball Beach is a dream come true. The otherworldly landscape offers endless opportunities for stunning shots. As the tide goes out, the wet sand and tide pools around the boulders provide perfect reflections — sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times. Note that drones are not allowed on the beach.

You can park your car for free in the designated area on the west side along Highway One. From there, you'll see two trailheads; take the one heading north toward Bowling Ball Beach. The south one will take you to the main beach, Schooner Gulch Beach. You can bring your furry friends as long as they are on a leash. It's recommended to wear sturdy, non-slip shoes, especially if you plan to climb the rocks. There aren't any facilities on the beach, so bring water, snacks, and anything else you may need. Have fun tidepooling, observing marine life, and follow our tips for being a mindful beachcomber.

The surrounding area of Schooner Gulch State Beach and Mendocino County offers plenty to explore, especially if you're on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. The coastal trail to the beach provides beautiful views of the ocean and the rugged, eroding cliffs along the coastline. Look for wildlife, including crabs, octopuses, sea anemones, and sea stars. If you like surfing, walk toward the north end of Bowling Ball Beach, and you'll find a surfing hotspot called Whiskey Shoals. The best time for surfing is in the spring and summertime, with both left and right breaks thanks to offshore winds from the northeast. Fishing is another popular activity around here.

The nearby town of Point Arena is also worth a visit. Climb up the Point Arena Lighthouse for panoramic views — one of the tallest lighthouses on the West Coast at 115 feet. The charming town features art galleries, quaint shops, and eateries that showcase the local culture and cuisine. Pop in for a film or a live performance at the 1928 vintage Art Deco style Arena Theater, go on a whale-watching expedition along the Mendocino Coast between November and April, or take on some more nature adventure at Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands or Manchester State Park, a fantastic spot for RV camping in California. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, photographer, or just someone looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Bowling Ball Beach promises a beach trip that defies the ordinary, with bonus sightseeing in its surrounds.