It includes 18,000 feet (5,500 m) of protected beachfront on the Pacific Ocean in Northern California on State Route 1, 7 miles (11 km) north of Point Arena.

The park features sand dunes, flat grasslands and five miles of gentle, sandy beachfront.

[2] Aside from the coastal views, Manchester State Beach consists of grazing lands with flocks of sheep, and herds of cattle.

Right off the coast of Arena Point, experienced divers can dive from boats to view kelp forests and other marine life found in the park's protected waters.

Hikers are advised to check the wind report before planning a trip to Manchester State Beach.

The beach is complemented by an upland area that offers visitors loop trails that venture alongside ponds, through dark sand, and up and around bluffs and dunes.

Throughout the park, unique wind shelters built out of driftwood, by beach-goers, are featured alongside the bluffs and along the beach.