Point Lobos State Natural Reserve — Attraction in Monterey

Absolutely breathtaking! Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a must-visit destination for individuals and families alike. The hiking trails offer unparalleled views along the Pacific Ocean that will leave you in awe at every turn. The diverse landscapes and stunning vistas make it feel like you’re exploring a different world. The ease of the hiking trails, coupled with the abundance of flowers and magnificent Cypress trees, make it a fantastic experience, even for young children.

The tide pools area is a hidden gem, where you can discover fascinating ocean creatures like crabs and hermit crabs. The rock formations, with their mesmerizing shapes, colors, and layers, truly transport you to another planet. The sound of the crashing waves further enhances the enchanting atmosphere of this natural wonder.

Don’t forget your binoculars to catch sight of the myriad of bird species that adorn this park, both around the land and perched on the giant rocks in the ocean. The sight is truly spectacular and a birdwatcher’s dream come true.

Remember to pack a picnic. Enjoy your meals only at the designated picnic tables, as food is not allowed on the trails. This practice ensures the park remains pristine and inviting for all. Park Rangers are on hand to kindly remind visitors of this rule and offer plenty of picnic tables at the parking lot area within the park. Restrooms are also conveniently available for your comfort.

There’s no per person entrance fee, only $10 per car for parking within the park. If you prefer, there’s free parking along the Pacific Coast Highway, allowing you to walk to the park entrance. Additionally, while not mandatory, a small donation is suggested to support the park’s upkeep and maintenance.

For your safety, it’s advised to wear long sleeves and pants due to the presence of poison oak. And remember, while exploring this breathtaking haven, please stay on the designated trails and avoid collecting anything. Violations of this rule are subject to a $280 fine.

Please note that dogs are not allowed in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve to preserve the environment. Also, remember that the park closes at 7:00 pm, and no entry is permitted after 6:30 pm for the safety of all visitors.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s splendor.

One more thing: make sure you have enough space on your smartphone to take photos and videos. Trust me, you’ll capture tons of amazing moments. Don’t end up like me, running out of storage before even finishing...

This is the main attraction of Monterey-Carmel trip. Magnificent views of iceburg like rocks, exquisite birds, seals, sea lions, spooky trees, deep blue waters and much more ! The flora and fauna I witnessed here is simply surreal.

This is a huge reserve with multiple parkings. Entry fee is $10. Some people park outside and walk but that's probably gonna be too much.

Let me chalk out a plan that worked great for me.

1. Reach the parking lot near North Shore trail between 8-8.30 am. There is a restroom to freshen up from where the trail starts. Follow North Shore trail, keep left until you reach the rocks filled with pelicans and gigantic birds. I guess they were cranes. You can also see their nests. On the way you will view small bays of emerald green water, crashing waves, unique trees and beautiful cliffs. I did not walk the entire trail to the right because of time shortage and sun's direction.
2. Walk back till the restroom and enter Cypress Grove Trail. It's a good walk but at the end of it it's mostly water and no new landscape. Can be skipped if you are short on time.
3. Come back to the parking and enter Sea Lion Point trail. This is the most exciting one. No trees around, just shrubs. So wear a cap/hat. You will need a high power camera to click 20-30 sea lions lazying on the Sea Lion rock. You can hear them but cannot view easily with naked eyes. They merge with the rock colour.
4. While walking back, complete the loop and enter into Sand Hill Trail. Take your car to the next parking lot near South Shore Trail. While walking through it, you'll clearly see several blue coloured jelly fishes in the enclosed waters below. A particular rock formation looks like a lion's face. You will notice unique rock formations.
5. Drive straight to Bird Island Trail Parking lot. Visit Hidden Beach then take Bird Island trail. You'll walk across China Cove which is a beautiful photo stop. Reach Bird Island Lookout to view white rocks with black birds. We saw a falcon and a seal too. It's magnificent.

If you have more time, surely explore other spots too. But don't miss the above. This is a place to spend the full day. We just had 4 hours. Big Sur and Monterey seem okayish after visiting...

Best weekend getaway! Lives upto its reputation as the best kept secret among the Cali state parks. It you are out of town, book a hotel/AirBnB in Monterey/Carmel/Seaside/Pacific grove (all these areas have lovely places for a great weekend).

PointLobos is great for a walk/mild hike on given anyday- weekday/weekend. Each part of the park has a different view and topography. Oneside is hilly and has beautiful wildflowers (when in season), and the orher part has tons of bird (Bird Island), and a secluded small beach for a perfect sunny day picnic! In between you have the marine life, rock formation, all of which are well connected by a hikable wheelchair accessible for most parts of the trail. You can park on the street outside the park and enter for free, walk about a mile or so to reach the coastline (multiple beautiful trails lead to it, all worth the hike). Or just pay $10 and drive to the parking lot, park and hike, or just drive on the paved road alongside the hikable trails, and stop at all these lovely spots along the coast and enjoy (most of the sites have small parking lots too). Best for enjoying the sunset on the Pacific and listen to the flocks of birds flying back home. Go into the clean and calm waters of the Pacific for fun, or just enjoy the view from a bench, or inside of your car.

its the best statepark I have visited ( I have drove crosscountry twice visiting Np’s and stateparks, but this one is a cut above the rest). And this is a park you can enjoy in any season, anyday, alone or in company!

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Need to tell that, it lives up to...