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Natural Bridges showcases the relentless power of ocean erosion

Natural Bridges State Beach preserves spectacular examples of coastal erosion where the Pacific Ocean has carved natural arches through resistant mudstone formations over thousands of years. These natural bridges represent different stages of the erosion process—from sea stacks to arches to eventual collapse—demonstrating how the coastline constantly changes through wave action, tidal forces, and weathering. The park also protects one of California's few remaining monarch butterfly overwintering sites.