Paleontology and Geology at New Brighton State Beach

Come take a closer look at the sea cliffs at New Brighton State Beach. The rocks forming these dramatic cliffs are part of the the Purisima Formation, which is exposed along the California Coast from Point Reyes to southern Santa Cruz County. The rocks at New Brighton Beach were deposited under the ocean during the early part of the Pliocence Epoch, approximately five million years ago. We will discuss the formation of marine sedimentary rocks, examine the Purisima Formation fossils at New Brighton Beach, discuss the processes responsible for preserving fossils, and learn about the ancient seafloor environment in which these fossils are preserved! You are guaranteed to see fossils of ancient clams, snails, and whales. This tour is appropriate for all ages, though we will be walking around and over large slippery rocks on the beach. The tour will start about 90 minutes before low tide, so the tide will be falling, but be prepared to get your feet wet. Any and all questions are welcome during the tour! We hope to have a discussion which is interesting and informative to all. No prior knowledge is necessary or assumed. Collecting of rocks and fossils at New Brighton State Beach is NOT permitted.