California Coastal Act, Section 30001.5 states:
“The legislature further finds and declares that the basic goals of the state for the coastal zone are to: . . .
(c) Maximize public access to and along the coast and maximize public recreational opportunities in the coastal zone consistent with sound resources conservation principles and constitutionally protected rights of private property owners.”
The first comprehensive review of the State’s Coastal Access Program, the California Coastal Commission, was published in June 1999. It identified the key issues that affect the public’s ability to use and enjoy the coast for recreation, and determined its three top program priorities: