A short trail leads from the Islands and Ocean Center past Beluga Slough to Bishops Beach, which is also accessible by car from Bunnell Avenue; turn right on Beluga Avenue and follow it to the beach. This is a delightful spot for a low-tide walk, with extraordinary views of mountains, volcanoes, and glaciers lining the bay.

Intrepid hikers can follow the beach north seven miles to the Diamond Creek Trail, which heads uphill to the Sterling Highway; leave a car at the trailhead off the highway to make your return easier. You’ll need to time this hike with the tides to keep from getting trapped against the cliffs.

Diamond Creek Trail is an easy and fun path, even if you don’t do the long beach walk. The trailhead is directly across the Sterling Highway from Diamond Ridge Road. A narrow dirt road—small cars only—takes you a half-mile in, or you can park along the highway and walk in. The trail drops down to the gorgeous, remote beach in a fun and scenic mile.