Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is one of Monterey’s best hidden gems. It’s a popular tourist destination, mainly because of its iconic coastal views and vibrant marine life. The coast’s jagged rocks, pristine sandy beaches, sea lions, seals, whales, and dolphins are only a few among many claims to fame of Point Lobos. The park is a must-visit place for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers.

Stephen and I were taken back by the beauty of this California State Park when we first visited. Often overlooked by the neighboring Big Sur region, Point Lobos has fewer crowds, magnificent coastal views, spectacular geological formations, crystal-clear waters, and rich and diverse ecosystems.

We want everyone to experience the beautiful region of Northern California, which is why we have put together an ultimate guide to visiting this reserve in 2024. In this blog post, you’ll get information on when to visit, where to stay, and what to see and do around Point Lobos.

Best Time to Visit Point Lobos State Park

The best time to visit Point Lobos State Reserve for outdoor enthusiasts is during April-May. This is because the weather is beautiful, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. In these spring months you can also witness the wildflowers blooming throughout the reserve. The greenery is at its peak and the ocean waters are relatively calm.

If you choose to visit in the summer time, particularly in May or June, you might run into some fog on the horizon each day. Usually, it will burn off in the afternoon, however the coastal marine layer is definitely something to keep in mind when visiting Point Lobos. With that said, the weather is typically pleasant all year round. We personally visited in the month of January, and we had great weather with mornings that were just slightly chilly.

Where to Stay Near Point Lobos State Park

If you are planning a trip to Point Lobos State Reserve and wondering where to stay, there are plenty of excellent options available.

One of the best options for staying near the Point Lobos State Reserve is the Carmel-by-the-Sea. It’s a charming seaside town that boasts a relaxed atmosphere, upscale shops, and eateries. You can enjoy a range of lodging options that suit your budget and preference. The hotels in Carmel range from budget motels to high-end boutique hotels.

Another popular option for accommodation is the neighboring city of Monterey, located just a few miles north of Point Lobos. Monterey offers a range of places to stay with many properties close to the ocean. There are also many attractions like Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. We personally opted to stay at the Hyatt Regency in Monterey.

For those seeking a more secluded retreat, Big Sur offers a peaceful escape amidst towering redwoods and dramatic coastal cliffs. The drive from Point Lobos to Big Sur is breathtaking, and there are plenty of cozy cabins, lodges, and campsites available for rent.

Whether you prefer to stay in charming Carmel, bustling Monterey, or secluded Big Sur, you really can’t go wrong. Each place is breathtaking and offers its own unique experience.

Things to Know Before Going to Point Lobos State Park

1. You are required to pay an entry fee to access the park, it’s $10 per vehicle.
2. The reserve is open from 8am – 7pm, with the last vehicle entry at 6:30pm.
3. The park has several picnic areas and restrooms, but there are no food or drink vendors on site, so bring your own cooking supplies. Note that there are no campsites within the reserve.
4. The weather at Point Lobos is generally mild but can be unpredictable. It’s important to dress in layers and bring sunscreen and a hat for protection against the sun.
5. Because of its popularity, the park can get crowded on weekends and holidays. We recommend that you arrive early to secure parking and avoid the crowds.
6. Use caution when hiking along the cliffs and rocky shoreline, as the terrain can be slippery and dangerous.
7. Dogs are not allowed in the park, except for service animals, so plan accordingly if you have pets.
8. If you want to see the turquoise colors of the water, we recommend visiting during the middle of the day. During sunset, there are shadows on the water and the colors aren’t as vibrant.
9. As always when out in nature, respect the area and practice Leave No Trace to keep the park beautiful and clean.

Best Activities in Point Lobos State Park

There are tons of really fun and beautiful activities to do in Point Lobos State Park, but here’s a few of our favorites that you should definitely add to your Point Lobos itinerary.

Walk Along Bird Island Trail

This 0.8-mile trail takes you along the southern part of the reserve. Here you can catch a glimpse of the many different species of wildlife. The trail leads you to two different coves and beaches that are super fun to explore and relax on.

Take in The Beauty of China Cove

China Cove is a small, secluded cove located on the Bird Island Trail, and is considered one of the park’s hidden gems.

Upon arriving at China Cove, you’re immediately struck by the stunning natural beauty surrounding you. The cove is bordered by towering cliffs, and the clear blue waters of the Pacific Ocean shimmer in the sunlight. Numerous sea lions can often be seen basking on the rocks at the water’s edge, and seabirds soar overhead.

Some of the best ways to explore China Cove are by taking a leisurely hike along Bird Island Trail or taking a kayak tour of the cove. Kayaking will allow you to see the rock formations and abundant marine life up close and personal.

No matter how you explore it, China Cove is a must-see for anyone visiting Point Lobos State Park. Its natural beauty and secluded location make for an unforgettable adventure. This area is also great for all ages and families as well.

Enjoy a Relaxing Day at Gibson Beach

Gibson Beach is another hidden gem, tucked away from the main road and accessible only through a short hike along the Bird Island Trail. The journey to the beach rewards you with turquoise waters, white sand, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This is our favorite beach in the park because of the beautiful sand and views. We could have spent the whole day here if we had the time.

The beach is perfect for a relaxing day out with family and friends or for a peaceful solo retreat. You can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, picnics, and walks along the beach. The clear and cool waters are ideal for snorkeling, allowing you to see an abundance of marine life including colorful fish, crabs, and even sea lions. The beach is surrounded by natural beauty like the coastal cypress trees, wildflowers, and succulent plants creating a beautiful backdrop.

Whether you are an avid nature lover or simply seeking a day out in the sun, Gibson Beach is sure to impress.

Hike Cypress Grove Trail

The Cypress Grove Trail is a scenic hike that offers stunning views of the rugged coastline. It’s also a great way to see one of the most iconic trees in the area – the Monterey cypress. It’s another short hike at just 0.8 miles roundtrip.

The trailhead for the Cypress Grove Trail is located near the south end of the reserve. From there, the trail descends gently towards the coast, passing through a beautiful cypress grove. The trees are twisted and gnarled, and some of them are over 200 years old. As you make your way through the grove, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

As the trail continues along the coast, you’ll come across several rocky outcroppings and small coves. These areas are home to a variety of marine life, including harbor seals, sea otters, and a variety of seabirds.

At the end of the trail, you’ll reach a point that offers more beautiful views of the coastline. This is a great spot to take a break, snap some photos, and soak in the natural beauty of the area.

Hiking the Cypress Grove Trail is a wonderful experience. It offers a chance to see some of the most beautiful scenery in California. With its stunning cypress trees and breathtaking ocean views, this hike is a must-do for anyone visiting the Point Lobos State Reserve.

Explore Sea Lion Point Trail

The Sea Lion Point Trail is a great short hike at just 0.4 miles total. The trailhead is located near the Whalers Cabin Museum. From there, the trail descends gently towards the coast, passing through beautiful coastal scrub and native grasslands. As the trail approaches the coast, the terrain becomes more rugged and rocky, with gorgeous views of the ocean.

As the trail reaches the coast, you’ll get to see sea otters playing in the kelp beds and harbor seals and sea lions sunbathing on the rocky outcroppings.

Sea Lion Point Trail is great for families or any of you wanting to do a short hike and see some marine wildlife.

Go Whale Watching

Whale watching in Point Lobos State Park is a thrilling experience that draws in visitors from all over the world. This natural reserve offers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal location for spotting a variety of whale species.

During the whale-watching season, which runs from December to May, you can witness the annual migration of gray whales. These massive creatures, which can grow up to 50 feet long, make their way down the coast from Alaska to warmer waters off the coast of Mexico. At Point Lobos State Park you can observe these magnificent animals from the shore or from a kayak or boat tour.

In addition to gray whales, you may also spot humpback whales, orcas, and blue whales, among other species.

To enhance the whale-watching experience, the reserve offers guided tours led by knowledgeable naturalists who can provide insight into the behavior and habits of the animals. Between the stunning views, the thrill of spotting whales in their natural habitat, and the expert guidance of the reserve’s naturalists, whale watching in Point Lobos State Reserve is such a fun experience.

Visit Whaler’s Cabin Museum

If you’re interested in learning about the history of whaling and the maritime culture of the area, we recommend checking out the Whalers Cabin Museum. 

The Whaler’s Cabin Museum is housed in a small cabin that was built in the early 1850s. The cabin is made of rough-hewn redwood planks and is a perfect representation of the simple structures that were commonly used by whalers during the 19th century.

The museum is home to a variety of artifacts that offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the whalers who once called the area home. Here you can see harpoons, lances, and other tools used by the whalers, as well as displays that explain the process of whaling and the history of the whaling industry.

The Whalers Cabin Museum is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in history, maritime culture, or the natural beauty of the California coast.

Go Scuba Diving in The Reserve

Scuba diving in Point Lobos State Park is a unique experience. It offers a chance to explore the diverse marine life and underwater terrain of the central coast of California. The reserve is one of the most popular dive destinations in the area. This is all thanks to its pristine waters and abundance of marine life.

Divers who explore the waters of Point Lobos State Reserve can expect to see a variety of marine life. This includes sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, rockfish, and even the occasional octopus or sea turtle. The reserve is also home to a variety of kelp forests. These forests provide shelter and food for many species of fish and invertebrates.

One of the most popular dive sites in the reserve is the Bluefish Cove. This sheltered cove is home to a stunning array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea stars, and sea urchins. The cove has a unique underwater topography, which includes a series of narrow canyons and crevices that are fun to explore.

Another popular dive site in the reserve is the Whalers Cove. This site has dramatic underwater cliffs and abundant marine life, including sea lions and a variety of fish species.

Overall, scuba diving in Point Lobos State Park is a thrilling and rewarding experience that offers a chance to explore one of the most beautiful and unique underwater environments in California.

Ready to Plan Your Trip to Point Lobos State Park?

Visiting Point Lobos State Park is a great way to explore the gorgeous California Coast. We love everything about this park and all the natural beauty it offers. We hope this blog inspired you to start planning your trip here. 

If you want to learn more about other outdoor activities to do along the Central/Northern California coast, check out our blog Discover the Best Outdoor Activities Near San Francisco.