Point Reyes National Seashore Intertidal and Subtidal Zones

The intertidal area is where the land merges under the ocean and the tidal zones begin. This complex marine ecosystem is found along coastlines worldwide with general similarities expressed by local diversity. It is a fascinating place to explore and appreciate, especially when accompanied by an understanding of the ecology that holds it together.

At Point Reyes National Seashore, the intertidal zone is characterized by four zones delineated mostly by the amounts of moisture, exposure to the sun, water movement, temperature, and salinity.