Salinas River State Beach offers beach access at the mouth of the Salinas River in Moss Landing, accessible via Potrero Road off Highway 1 with a parking lot available.

The beach is popular for fishing, nature watching, and beachcombing with scenic views of Monterey Bay, though water conditions are often challenging with cold temperatures, strong waves, and no lifeguards on duty.

A mile-long Dune Trail connects two coastal access points and explores the area's sand dunes.