Point Arguello Area
Map SatellitePoint Arguello lies at the western end of the Santa Ynez Mountains, the most westerly of the Transverse Ranges which extend some 500 kilometers (300 miles) eastward. In the area between Point Pedernales and Arguello, the rocks include Miocene and Pleistocene marine sedimentaries and terrace deposits.
The terraces are well developed in the region, with the lowest ranging in elevation from 15 meters (50 feet) to 60 meters (200 feet) continuously throughout, forming a broad but much-dissected coastal plain. An intermediate terrace of about 60 meters (200 feet) is preserved in small remnants throughout the area, and isolated remnants of a still higher terrace are preserved to the southeast of Point Arguello at nearly 230 meters (750 feet). These terraces have been formed by recent tectonic uplifts of the coastal area, thus elevating the wave-cut shoreline above the sea level. At Point Pedernales there are some Miocene volcanics.
Vegetation in the area includes grasslands, coastal sage scrub and chaparral. The grasslands support excellent wildflower displays. Two rare plants occur in the area, Cirsium rhothophilum and Senecio blochmaniae.
The coast is generally rocky, although there are some sandy areas. Marine communities include both exposed and protected and are well developed.
Integrity: Virtually undisturbed, though there are buildings, a railway, some dirt roads and a Coastguard Station in the area.
Use: Restricted. Some private.
October 1976
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman