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Preston Island beach in Crescent City, California - Real-time ocean conditions and beach information on Salty

Preston Island

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Preston Island is a stunning coastal beach located in Crescent City, Del Norte County, California. This picturesque destination is known for its breathtaking sunsets, scenic views, and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation and serenity. As a coastal beach, Preston Island offers a unique blend of rugged shoreline and calm waters, perfect for beachcombing, swimming, and surfing. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, which is rich in natural beauty and wildlife, by visiting the Smith River Recreation Area. With its unspoiled beauty and diverse landscape, Preston Island is a must-visit destination for any beach lover.

Preston Island offers a range of activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy, from swimming and surfing to beachcombing and picnicking. The nearby city of Crescent City provides a variety of dining options, from fresh seafood to casual eateries, and the Del Norte County Tourism website is a great resource for finding local attractions and events. The beach is generally uncrowded, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing experience. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Pacific Coast Highway 101 Corridor offers a range of recreation opportunities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. With its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, Preston Island is a nature lover's paradise.

The best time to visit Preston Island is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny, but the spring and fall seasons can also be great times to visit, with fewer crowds and mild temperatures. For visitors with mobility issues, the Access NCA website provides information on accessible recreation areas and beaches in the region. Parking is available near the beach, and visitors can find more information on parking and accessibility by visiting the California State Parks website. Local tips include bringing a jacket, as the weather can be cool and foggy, even in the summer, and being mindful of the tide times to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. By planning ahead and being prepared, visitors can make the most of their trip to Preston Island and enjoy all that this stunning coastal beach has to offer.

Quick Answers

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What is Preston Island most known for?

Preston Island is most known for welcoming dogs, beautiful tide pools, and great fishing opportunities.

Is Preston Island kid-friendly?

Preston Island may have limited amenities for young children. Check current conditions before your visit.

Is Preston Island dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Preston Island! Be sure to check for any leash requirements or restricted areas.

Is Preston Island good for surfing?

Waves are large at 7.3ft - for experienced surfers only.

What is the best time of year to visit Preston Island?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the warmest weather and water temperatures. Summer can be crowded. Fall provides pleasant conditions with fewer visitors.

How are the crowds at Preston Island?

Preston Island tends to have fewer crowds due to limited amenities. Great for those seeking a quieter beach experience.

Is today a good day to swim at Preston Island?

Swimming conditions are challenging today. Current conditions: cold water (54°F, wetsuit required), large waves (7.3ft), experienced swimmers only.

Real-Time Beach Data

Salty delivers real-time intelligence across land amenities, air quality and weather, ocean conditions, and sun exposure.

🏖 LAND

Parking & Access

Parking: Yes

Recreation & Sports

Picnic tables: Yes
Bonfire pits: Yes
Fishing: Yes

Policies & Access

Dogs: Allowed

Special Features

Tide pools: Yes

💨 AIR

Air temp: 48°F
Wind: 9 mph
Air pressure: 1027 hPa
Feels like: 42°F
Wind direction: N
PM 2.5: 3 µg/m³
Humidity: 75%
AQI: 42
PM 10: 6 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 13 mi
Dew point: 41°F
Conditions: Partly cloudy

💧 SEA

Water temp: 54°F
Wave height: 7.3 ft
Swell direction: NW
Wave period: 9 sec
Current velocity: 1.3 mph
Swell wave direction: NW

☀️ SUN

UV index: 2.35
Sunrise: 7:43 AM
Cloud cover: 20%
Sunset: 4:53 PM
Total daylight hours: 9.2 hrs

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Salty is your definitive source for real-time ocean conditions, beach information, and marine safety data worldwide. Access comprehensive beach intelligence including weather forecasts, water temperatures, wave conditions, and surf reports. Discover ocean education resources, conservation events, and beachside promotions all in one place. Whether you're planning a beach day, tracking marine conditions, or exploring coastal destinations, Salty provides trusted, up-to-date ocean and beach data for every shore around the globe.

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