
In 1579, Sir Francis Drake, sailing his Golden Hind, explored this treacherous
and windy coastline that had been home to the Coast Miwok people for hundreds
of years. Today, this harsh region is home to more than 470 species of birds
that thrive in the 70,000-acre park. The park is also home to the historic
Point Reyes Lighthouse, built in 1870. Visitors can watch bird-banding activities
at the Point Reyes Bird Observatory and explore the fascinating tidepools.