Discover the Serenity of China Cove
Explore the stunning coastal beauty and serene atmosphere of China Cove in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, the perfect retreat for nature lovers.
Nestled within Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, China Cove offers an idyllic escape with stunning coastal views, rich marine life, and serene beach experiences. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
A brief summary to China Cove
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, 62 CA-1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, 93923, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes, especially during sunset.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the hiking trails around the cove.
- Check tide schedules for the best tide pooling opportunities and to see marine life.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy while soaking in the serene views of the ocean.
Getting There
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Walking
Start from the center of Carmel-by-the-Sea, specifically at the corner of Ocean Avenue and San Carlos Street. Head south on San Carlos Street until you reach the intersection with 7th Avenue. Turn left onto 7th Avenue and continue until you reach the intersection with Mission Street. Turn right onto Mission Street and continue walking until you reach the entrance of the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Please note that there is a fee to enter the Reserve, so be prepared with cash or a credit card. After entering the Reserve, follow the signs for China Cove, which is located within the park. The walk from the entrance to China Cove is approximately 1.5 miles and will take about 30-40 minutes, depending on your pace.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, you can rent a bicycle from one of the local rental shops in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Begin at the rental shop and head south on Ocean Avenue, then take a right onto San Carlos Street. Continue south until you reach the intersection with 7th Avenue, turn left and bike to Mission Street. Turn right onto Mission Street, and follow it to the entrance of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. The bike ride is approximately 1.5 miles from the town center to the entrance, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Once inside the Reserve, follow the signs for China Cove.
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Public Transport + Walking
You can take the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) bus line 1 from Carmel-by-the-Sea to the nearest stop to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Check the MST website for the latest schedule. Once you arrive at the bus stop on Highway 1, walk towards the entrance of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. The entrance is about a 0.5-mile walk from the bus stop. After entering the Reserve, follow the directional signs to China Cove, which is approximately another mile into the park.
Discover more about China Cove
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
D L James “Seaward” House
0.7 km
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Butterfly House
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Carmel Sea Cradle
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La Playa Hotel
5.0 km
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Carmel Green Lantern Inn
5.2 km
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Cypress Inn
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Carmel
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Carmel Color House
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The court of the Golden bourgh
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Carmel Bay Company
5.4 km
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Carmel Visitor Center (Suite 219A)
5.4 km
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Doud Arcade
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Carmel Jewelry Studio-Richard
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Carmel Plaza
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Tally Ho Inn
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Unmissable attractions to see
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
0.8 km
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Whalers Cabin Museum
1.2 km
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Cypress Grove
1.7 km
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Monastery Beach
2.1 km
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Big Sur National Scenic Byway (northernmost)
2.1 km
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Carmelite Monastery
2.3 km
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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
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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
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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
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Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel
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Terry's Lounge
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La Bicyclette Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Crossroads Carmel
4.2 km
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The Hearth Shop
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The Barnyard Shopping Village
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Pieces of Heaven
4.7 km
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Big Sur Canna+Botanicals
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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
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Ms. Fabulous
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Fleur'ever Boutique
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In the Bag Carmel
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Mole Hole
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The Nut Hut
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Nazar Imports
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Big Little Boxes
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sunset Lounge
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O'CALLAGHAN'S IRISH PUB
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Bud's at La Playa
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Bar Napoli
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Sade's Cocktails
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Barmel
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Galante Vineyards Tasting Room
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Mulligan Public House
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Wrath Wines- Carmel Tasting Room
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Alfredo's Cantina
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Britannia Arms
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The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
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Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
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Del Monte Bar & Grill
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Terrace Lounge
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Pacheco Club
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Indian summer
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Paper Wing Theatre & Supper Club
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Big Sur Taphouse
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Court's Lounge
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The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
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Khartoum Lounge
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Tessora's Barra di Vino
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Cardiff & Cocktails
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The Vesper
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Katie Bloom's
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