Explore the Coast
“I should study Nature’s laws in all their crossings and unions; I should follow magnetic streams to their source and follow the shores of our magnetic oceans.” –John Muir
Grabbing lunch to go at Marin Headlands
Campfire circle at Marin Headlands
Hiking at Marin Headlands
The Point Bonita MOVE crew 2009
Campfire at Point Bonita
Point Bonita
Community service at Point Bonita
Getting to know each other at the Marin Headlands
The California Pacific Coast boasts stunning forests, creeks, ridges and beaches, hundreds of miles of trails, rare plant and animal species, and one of the most important collections of historic buildings in the country. From the Redwood groves of Sebastopol, to the sandy beaches of Santa Cruz, the Central Pacific Coast is an area of unbelievable beauty. To ensure the longevity of natural habitat and the protection of vital natural resources, local and national organizations rely upon volunteers to help fight against invasive plants, habitat destruction, and pollution. The Ocean experience of MOVE is a way to contribute to the longevity and beauty of our Central Pacific Coast.
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Option 1: Marin Headlands, Pacific Coast
This adventure will take you to the Pacific Ocean at the Marin Headlands Institute at Rodeo Beach for the first day. Hike the hills to get spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, spend the afternoon playing in the sand, then roast some marshmallows with new friends around the campfire before heading to the dorms to rest. In the morning we will take busses to beautiful sites along the Pacific Coast to work with the National Park Conservancy and the U.S. National Park Service to complete some important stewardship projects. You might get to restore the banks of peaceful rivers, work on the hillside dunes to remove non-native plants, or assist in the beautification of a historic military base. Experience the beauty of the Marin Headlands!
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Option 2: Point Bonita, Golden Gate Recreation Area
This experience will take you to the Golden Gate Recreational Area to explore the spectacular northern California beaches, historic military bunkers, and the Point Bonita Lighthouse that was built in 1855. After an evening of s'mores around the campfire with friends, you will rest in the dorms of a renovated military base. Day two will be spent learning about the unique coastal environment and working alongside naturalists to preserve the local habitat, maintain the legendary monuments, and help to keep the beaches pristine. Join us for an amazing adventure on the coast!
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Option 3: Camp Harmon, Santa Cruz Mountains, Pacific Coast
Camp Harmon is located just 11 miles north of Santa Cruz. Your first day will be spent enjoying the beaches and beauty of Santa Cruz. Spot local wildlife, scour the beaches to admire beautiful shells, and smell the coastal air. You will then travel to Camp Harmon to stay in cabins, and spend the evening around the campfire with new friends as you admire the amazing night sky and eat s'mores. On the second day you will collaborate with the Land Trust of Santa Cruz in a service project to protect the critical land and water resources that define Santa Cruz County's beauty, coastal landscape, unique biotic habitats, and rich agricultural heritage. An adventure awaits you on the Pacific Coast!
