Located at beautiful Drakes Beach, the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center contains exhibits that focus on maritime exploration in the 1500s, marine fossils, and marine environments. A minke whale skeleton is suspended from the ceiling. Allow 20–30 minutes to view exhibits. Park- and ocean-themed books, guides, and postcards, and maps, along with coffee and packaged snacks are for sale in the PRNSA bookstore adjacent to the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center.
Directions
From the Bear Valley Visitor Center, head north 0.2 miles (0.3 km) to Bear Valley Rd.
Turn left and follow Bear Valley Rd. 1.75 miles (2.8 km) northwest to Sir Francis Drake Blvd.
Turn left and follow Sir Francis Drake Blvd. 13.4 miles (21.4 km) west to Drakes Beach Rd. Tip: Follow road signs for “Lighthouse” until you see a sign for Drakes Beach.
Turn left and follow Drakes Beach Rd. 1.6 miles (2.6 km) south to the Drakes Beach parking lot.
Allow 30 minutes for the drive from Bear Valley.
GPS Coordinates
Latitude 38° 1′ 40.6891″ N
Longitude 122° 57′ 42.0498″ W