Fort Ord Dunes State Park

Hidden gem, for sure! This is the newest state park in Monterey County. I have heard a lot of stories of the Fort Ord Dunes State Park  before was a state park because is the place where the dad of my boyfriend did his military service. It was my boyfriend's first time also visiting this park as he actually was not aware it was open to the public. You will see the military housing barracks now full of graffiti but it is not difficult to imagine yourself during the Korean and Vietnam wars and the soldiers departing from here many not to return alive. It is sad yet full of life place. Currently, other than the four miles of hiking and bicycling roads and four miles of shoreline is the habitat for endangered species. Interpretive signs  are everywhere in the Fort Ord Dunes State Park mostly explaining the history as a training area for the United States Army. The beach is beautiful, semi empty, you can take plenty of solo pictures, perfect for photo shoot because is kind of secluded and you have to walk downhill from the parking lot to access it. Very worth a trip day!