Sunset State Beach
Map SatelliteSunset State Beach, though used primarily as a recreational area, does represent a good illustration of an open coast, sandy environment. The beach profile shows a good progression from fixed dunes through motile dunes, beach berm, intertidal and subtidal areas.
Vegetation is primarily coastal strand, with Ericameria ericoides, Cakile sp., and Abronia sp.
The faunal communities of the sublittoral area are homogeneous and typical.
Shorebirds are usually present, as are various gulls. The California legless lizard, Anniella pulchra, may still occur in the dunes.
Integrity: In general, the area is not too disturbed, considering the recreational use it supports; however, model airplanes are impacting the dunes.
Use: Research, educational, observational, light recreational.
March 1978
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman