Discover the Serene Beauty of China Cove
Experience the breathtaking coastal views and wildlife at China Cove, a serene public beach within the stunning Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
Nestled within the stunning Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, China Cove is a hidden gem that promises breathtaking coastal views, abundant wildlife, and serene beach experiences. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike, this public beach is a must-visit destination that showcases the natural beauty of California's coast.
A brief summary to China Cove
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, 62 CA-1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, 93923, US
- Monday 8 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7 pm
- Friday 8 am-7 pm
- Saturday 8 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.
- Explore nearby hiking trails for additional scenic viewpoints.
- Check tide schedules for the best beach experience.
- Dress in layers as coastal weather can change quickly.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Carmel-by-the-Sea, start at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and San Carlos Street. Head south on San Carlos Street for two blocks until you reach 7th Avenue. Turn left onto 7th Avenue and continue until you reach the intersection with Mission Street. At Mission Street, turn right and walk for about 0.5 miles until you reach the entrance of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Once you arrive at the entrance, pay the entrance fee if required. Follow the marked trails leading to China Cove, which is approximately a 1.5-mile walk from the entrance. Be sure to follow signs for China Cove, and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
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Biking
If you prefer to bike, rent a bicycle from one of the local shops in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Start at the rental shop and head south on Ocean Avenue towards San Carlos Street. Turn left onto San Carlos Street and continue until you reach 7th Avenue. Turn left onto 7th Avenue, then right onto Mission Street. Follow Mission Street for about 0.5 miles to the entrance of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. After paying the entrance fee, bike along the designated paths to reach China Cove, which is about a 1.5-mile ride from the entrance. Keep an eye out for signs directing you to China Cove.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
From the main shopping area of Carmel-by-the-Sea, walk to the nearest bus stop on Ocean Avenue. Take the Monterey-Salinas Transit Bus #1 or #2 towards the Point Lobos area. Get off at the stop closest to the entrance of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. After disembarking, follow the signs to the entrance and pay the entrance fee. Once inside, take the trails leading to China Cove, which is approximately a 1.5-mile walk from the entrance. Follow the signs for China Cove to navigate the trails.
Discover more about China Cove
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
D L James “Seaward” House
0.7 km
Discover the D L James 'Seaward' House, a historic landmark in Carmel-By-The-Sea, showcasing stunning views and rich architectural heritage.
Butterfly House
3.7 km
Explore the Butterfly House in Carmel-By-The-Sea: a historical landmark showcasing stunning architecture and nature's beauty in California.
Carmel Sea Cradle
4.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Carmel Sea Cradle, your perfect coastal getaway for relaxation and adventure.
La Playa Hotel
5.0 km
Experience coastal luxury at La Playa Hotel in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where stunning ocean views and exceptional service await every traveler.
Carmel Green Lantern Inn
5.2 km
Experience tranquility and charm at Carmel Green Lantern Inn, a cozy retreat in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Cypress Inn
5.3 km
Discover the charm of Cypress Inn in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where comfort meets elegance in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for travelers.
Carmel
5.3 km
Explore the enchanting charm of Carmel-By-The-Sea, where art, nature, and culture come together along California's stunning coastline.
Carmel Color House
5.3 km
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The court of the Golden bourgh
5.4 km
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Carmel Bay Company
5.4 km
Explore Carmel Bay Company for exquisite home decor and unique furnishings in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
Carmel Visitor Center (Suite 219A)
5.4 km
Explore Carmel-By-The-Sea with the Carmel Visitor Center: Your gateway to stunning landscapes, rich culture, and local insights.
Doud Arcade
5.4 km
Discover Doud Arcade in Carmel-By-The-Sea: A unique shopping destination bursting with local artistry and coastal charm.
Carmel Jewelry Studio-Richard
5.4 km
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Carmel Plaza
5.4 km
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Tally Ho Inn
5.4 km
Experience the charm of Tally Ho Inn in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a cozy hotel perfect for your coastal getaway in California.
Unmissable attractions to see
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
0.8 km
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Whalers Cabin Museum
1.2 km
Discover the maritime history at Whalers Cabin Museum in Carmel-by-the-Sea, where artifacts and stories bring the whaling era to life.
Cypress Grove
1.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cypress Grove in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, featuring scenic hiking trails and stunning ocean views.
Monastery Beach
2.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Monastery Beach, a unique coastal retreat in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Big Sur National Scenic Byway (northernmost)
2.1 km
Explore the stunning coastal landscapes of Big Sur National Scenic Byway, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty in California's iconic scenery.
Carmelite Monastery
2.3 km
Discover serene beauty and spiritual reflection at the Carmelite Monastery in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a perfect escape along California's stunning coastline.
Carmel River State Beach
3.4 km
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Robinson Jeffers Tor House Foundation
3.8 km
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Clinton Walker House - Frank Lloyd Wright
4.1 km
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Carmel Mission Basilica Museum
4.2 km
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Carmel Beach Walk
4.3 km
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China Vista Point
4.4 km
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Scenic Rd
4.4 km
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Steven Whyte Sculptor - Gallery & Studio
4.6 km
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Carmel Beach
4.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Pacific's Edge
0.8 km
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Mission Ranch Restaurant
4.1 km
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The Crossroads BBQ
4.2 km
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SteakCraft
4.3 km
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Rio Grill
4.3 km
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Allegro Pizzeria
4.6 km
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SUR at The Barnyard
4.6 km
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From Scratch Restaurant
4.7 km
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Aabha Indian Cuisine
4.7 km
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Robata Grill & Sake Bar
4.7 km
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Treehouse Café
5.3 km
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Seventh & Dolores
5.3 km
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Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel
5.3 km
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Terry's Lounge
5.3 km
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La Bicyclette Restaurant
5.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Crossroads Carmel
4.2 km
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The Hearth Shop
4.3 km
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The Barnyard Shopping Village
4.6 km
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Pieces of Heaven
4.7 km
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Big Sur Canna+Botanicals
4.7 km
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Carmel Rancho Shopping Center
5.0 km
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Wittpenn's Antiques
5.3 km
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Girl Boy Girl
5.3 km
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Ms. Fabulous
5.3 km
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Fleur'ever Boutique
5.3 km
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In the Bag Carmel
5.3 km
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Mole Hole
5.3 km
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The Nut Hut
5.3 km
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Nazar Imports
5.3 km
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Big Little Boxes
5.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sunset Lounge
0.8 km
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O'CALLAGHAN'S IRISH PUB
4.6 km
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Bud's at La Playa
5.0 km
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Bar Napoli
5.3 km
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Sade's Cocktails
5.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Sade's Cocktails, where exceptional mixology meets a cozy coastal ambiance.
Barmel
5.4 km
Experience the cozy charm and handcrafted cocktails at Barmel, the perfect bar for relaxation in beautiful Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Galante Vineyards Tasting Room
5.4 km
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Mulligan Public House
5.4 km
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Wrath Wines- Carmel Tasting Room
5.4 km
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Alfredo's Cantina
10.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alfredo's Cantina, Monterey's favorite cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
Britannia Arms
10.9 km
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The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
10.9 km
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Compact Disco
10.9 km
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Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
11.2 km
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Del Monte Bar & Grill
11.2 km
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