Daffodil Daze

For wildflower enthusiasts, a visit to Limantour Beach in Point Reyes National Seashore is a must. Beginning in February, nature awakens in a brilliant display of color—irises, poppies, Indian paintbrushes, and more emerge from the earth. Yet, hidden among this natural beauty lies a lesser-known wonder waiting to be discovered.

Tucked away near a secluded hostel by the beach is an old, abandoned daffodil farm. If you venture off the beaten path, you’ll stumble upon a vast meadow bursting with wild and exotic daffodils. Each year, for just a couple of weeks between late February and early March, hundreds of these golden blooms carpet the landscape—a perfect mini adventure for young explorers.

To find this hidden gem, start at the culvert directly across from the hostel’s driveway on Limantour Spit Road. Look for an unmarked trail weaving through the tall grass, likely flattened by past visitors. As you follow the path, you’ll pass a still pond covered in duckweed. Continue onward until the trail suddenly drops about eight feet down to a small stream. A rope is there to assist you in scaling down. Carefully balance across a log to cross the creek, then use another rope to climb back up. A short walk beyond brings you to a breathtaking sight—a meadow of daffodils swaying in the breeze, each one demanding admiration.

It’s fitting that the daffodil’s botanical name is Narcissus, inspired by the Greek myth of a man so captivated by his own reflection that he fell in love with it. Unfortunately, some visitors take this admiration too far, picking the flowers despite legal protections, leaving behind bare patches in the field. Remember, look but don’t pick.

As you take in the scene, you’ll also notice you’re not alone. Large stick mounds decorated with leaves and acorns dot the meadow—homes carefully built by the dusky-footed wood rat. These nocturnal creatures are likely asleep inside, and their carefully placed leaves and twigs serve as emergency food storage. Be sure to respect their space.

It’s a rare and mesmerizing sight—odd-shaped daffodils carpeting the ground, thriving after this season’s rain. Take a moment to observe this hidden world before continuing your journey. Then, follow the Coast Trail to Limantour Beach, where more wildflowers and stunning coastal views await.