Discover the Natural Wonders of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Explore the breathtaking coastal beauty and diverse ecosystems of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a must-visit state park along California's stunning coastline.
Nestled along the stunning California coastline, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its rugged cliffs, diverse marine life, and scenic hiking trails, this state park offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore hidden coves, observe seals and sea otters, and immerse themselves in the spectacular coastal views that define this remarkable landscape.
A brief summary to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
- Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, 93923, US
- +1831-624-4909
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and catch the sunrise over the ocean.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife watching; you might spot dolphins or migrating whales during the right seasons.
- Wear layered clothing, as coastal weather can change quickly, and be prepared for wind near the cliffs.
- Don't forget to pack water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
- Check the park's website for any trail closures or special events before your visit.
Getting There
-
Public Bus
From downtown Monterey, head to the nearest bus stop on Alvarado Street. Take the Monterey-Salinas Transit Bus number 1 towards Carmel. After approximately 15 minutes, get off at the 'Carmel Plaza' stop. From there, transfer to Bus number 24, which goes directly to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. The journey takes around 10-15 minutes. Once you arrive at the Point Lobos stop, follow the signs to the entrance, which is about a 5-minute walk from the bus stop.
-
Bicycle
Start at Cannery Row in Monterey and head south on the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. Continue along the scenic path that runs parallel to the coastline. After about 3 miles, you will reach the entrance to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. The ride is mostly flat and offers beautiful views of the ocean along the way. Make sure to check the trail map for any detours.
-
Walking
If you are up for a long walk, you can walk from downtown Monterey to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Start by heading south on Alvarado Street until you reach Ocean Avenue. Turn left onto Ocean Avenue and continue until you reach the intersection with Scenic Road. Follow Scenic Road, which will take you along the coastline towards Carmel. After approximately 2.5 miles, you will see the entrance to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve on your right. This walk is about 3 miles and takes around 1 hour, offering stunning coastal views.
-
Rideshare
You can use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft to get to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Simply request a ride from your current location in Monterey and input 'Point Lobos State Natural Reserve' as your destination. The ride typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Ensure to confirm with your driver the exact drop-off point at the entrance.
Discover more about Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
D L James “Seaward” House
1.5 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
2.9 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
3.5 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
4.2 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
4.3 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
4.4 km
Discover the charm of Cypress Inn in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where comfort meets elegance in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for travelers.
Carmel
4.5 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
4.5 km
Explore the artistic charm of Carmel Color House - a vibrant furniture store in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where coastal elegance meets unique design.
The court of the Golden bourgh
4.5 km
Discover the stunning architecture and rich history of the Court of the Golden Bourgh, a must-visit historical landmark in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
Carmel Bay Company
4.5 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)
4.5 km
Explore Carmel-By-The-Sea with the Carmel Visitor Center: Your gateway to stunning landscapes, rich culture, and local insights.
Doud Arcade
4.6 km
Discover Doud Arcade in Carmel-By-The-Sea: A unique shopping destination bursting with local artistry and coastal charm.
Carmel Jewelry Studio-Richard
4.6 km
Explore the artistry of handcrafted jewelry at Carmel Jewelry Studio, where every piece reflects the beauty of Carmel-By-The-Sea's coastal charm.
Carmel Plaza
4.6 km
Explore Carmel Plaza in Carmel-By-The-Sea for a unique shopping experience, gourmet dining, and breathtaking coastal views.
Tally Ho Inn
4.6 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
Whalers Cabin Museum
0.4 km
Discover the maritime history at Whalers Cabin Museum in Carmel-by-the-Sea, where artifacts and stories bring the whaling era to life.
China Cove
0.8 km
Experience the breathtaking coastal views and wildlife at China Cove, a serene public beach within the stunning Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
Monastery Beach
1.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Monastery Beach, a unique coastal retreat in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Cypress Grove
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cypress Grove in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, featuring scenic hiking trails and stunning ocean views.
Big Sur National Scenic Byway (northernmost)
1.4 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
1.6 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
2.6 km
Explore the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of Carmel River State Beach, a must-visit destination in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
Robinson Jeffers Tor House Foundation
3.0 km
Discover the poetic beauty of Robinson Jeffers' Tor House Foundation, a literary landmark in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, surrounded by breathtaking coastal views.
Clinton Walker House - Frank Lloyd Wright
3.3 km
Explore the Clinton Walker House, a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece nestled along the stunning coast of Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
Carmel Mission Basilica Museum
3.4 km
Discover the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, a captivating historical landmark that showcases California's rich mission heritage and stunning architecture.
Carmel Beach Walk
3.5 km
Experience the stunning coastal beauty and tranquility of Carmel Beach Walk in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a perfect escape for nature lovers and beachgoers.
Scenic Rd
3.6 km
Experience California's Scenic Road, where breathtaking coastal views and lush landscapes create unforgettable journeys.
Steven Whyte Sculptor - Gallery & Studio
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking sculptures of Steven Whyte in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where art and nature beautifully converge in a serene gallery setting.
Carmel Beach
3.9 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Carmel Beach, a serene coastal haven perfect for relaxation, exploration, and breathtaking sunsets.
Carmel by the sea
3.9 km
Discover the enchanting charm of Carmel by the Sea, where stunning beaches meet vibrant art and gourmet dining in a picturesque coastal town.
Essential places to dine
Pacific's Edge
1.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite Californian cuisine at Pacific's Edge, where every meal is a journey into culinary bliss.
Mission Ranch Restaurant
3.2 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Mission Ranch Restaurant with breathtaking ocean views in charming Carmel-By-The-Sea.
The Crossroads BBQ
3.5 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue delights at The Crossroads BBQ in Carmel-By-The-Sea – a haven for meat lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
SteakCraft
3.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at SteakCraft - the premier destination for Wagyu beef and fine dining in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Rio Grill
3.6 km
Experience culinary artistry at Rio Grill in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where exquisite steaks meet a charming coastal atmosphere.
Allegro Pizzeria
3.9 km
Discover Allegro Pizzeria in Carmel-By-The-Sea: Authentic Italian flavors meet local brews in a cozy setting perfect for all pizza lovers.
SUR at The Barnyard
3.9 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea at SUR at The Barnyard, where seasonal flavors meet rustic charm.
From Scratch Restaurant
3.9 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at From Scratch Restaurant in Carmel-By-The-Sea—where every meal is made with love and fresh ingredients.
Aabha Indian Cuisine
3.9 km
Discover authentic Indian flavors at Aabha Indian Cuisine in Carmel-By-The-Sea - where every dish tells a story.
Robata Grill & Sake Bar
4.0 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Robata Grill & Sake Bar in Carmel-By-The-Sea; where quality meets tradition.
Treehouse Café
4.4 km
Discover the flavors of Greece, Italy, and Thailand at Treehouse Café in Carmel-By-The-Sea - A culinary delight awaits!
Seventh & Dolores
4.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Seventh & Dolores - where premium steaks meet charming coastal elegance in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel
4.4 km
Experience culinary artistry at Aubergine, where New American cuisine meets fine dining in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Terry's Lounge
4.4 km
Experience exceptional dining at Terry's Lounge in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where exquisite cuisine meets a cozy atmosphere.
La Bicyclette Restaurant
4.4 km
Experience the charm of European dining at La Bicyclette Restaurant, where French and Italian flavors come together in a delightful ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Crossroads Carmel
3.4 km
Explore The Crossroads Carmel, a unique shopping mall in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where boutiques, art galleries, and local flavor meet in a stunning coastal setting.
The Hearth Shop
3.6 km
Explore The Hearth Shop in Carmel-By-The-Sea for exquisite fireplaces and enchanting Christmas decor - a unique shopping experience awaits!
The Barnyard Shopping Village
3.9 km
Explore the charm of The Barnyard Shopping Village in Carmel-by-the-Sea, where boutique shopping meets delightful dining in a serene outdoor setting.
Pieces of Heaven
4.0 km
Experience the bliss of artisanal chocolates, candies, and ice creams at Pieces of Heaven in charming Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Big Sur Canna+Botanicals
4.0 km
Explore high-quality cannabis products in a serene setting at Big Sur Canna+Botanicals, where wellness meets tranquility in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Carmel Rancho Shopping Center
4.2 km
Discover the charm of Carmel Rancho Shopping Center, where boutique shopping meets delightful dining in a picturesque coastal setting.
Wittpenn's Antiques
4.4 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques, art, and unique finds at Wittpenn's Antiques in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a must-visit for vintage lovers.
Girl Boy Girl
4.5 km
Discover unique fashion at Girl Boy Girl Boutique in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where style meets the charm of California's coast.
Ms. Fabulous
4.5 km
Explore Ms. Fabulous: A women's clothing boutique in Carmel-By-The-Sea, offering a curated selection of stylish attire and accessories in a charming atmosphere.
Fleur'ever Boutique
4.5 km
Explore the charm of Fleur'ever Boutique in Carmel-By-The-Sea - a treasure trove of unique gifts and exquisite home decor.
In the Bag Carmel
4.5 km
Discover your unique style at In the Bag Carmel, a charming women's clothing store in the picturesque Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
Mole Hole
4.5 km
Explore the enchanting Mole Hole in Carmel-By-The-Sea for unique gifts and local treasures that embody the coastal charm and artistic spirit of this beautiful town.
Nazar Imports
4.5 km
Explore Nazar Imports in Carmel-By-The-Sea for unique gifts and treasures from around the world, nestled in a charming coastal paradise.
The Nut Hut
4.5 km
Explore the delightful flavors of The Nut Hut in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where organic nuts, fine teas, and local wines come together in a charming gift shop.
Big Little Boxes
4.5 km
Discover unique gifts and gourmet delights at Big Little Boxes in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where local charm meets curated quality.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sunset Lounge
1.6 km
Experience the elegance of Sunset Lounge in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where breathtaking views meet exquisite cuisine in a luxurious setting.
O'CALLAGHAN'S IRISH PUB
3.9 km
Discover the heart of Ireland at O'Callaghan's Irish Pub - where traditional flavors meet vibrant community spirit in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Bud's at La Playa
4.2 km
Experience the charm of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Bud's at La Playa, where exquisite cocktails and fine dining meet coastal elegance.
Bar Napoli
4.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Italy at Bar Napoli, a charming bar and wine destination in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Sade's Cocktails
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Sade's Cocktails, where exceptional mixology meets a cozy coastal ambiance.
Barmel
4.5 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
4.5 km
Discover the exquisite wines and beautiful landscapes at Galante Vineyards in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a true treasure of California's wine country.
Mulligan Public House
4.5 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Mulligan Public House, Carmel-By-The-Sea's premier bar for craft beers and traditional pub fare.
Wrath Wines- Carmel Tasting Room
4.5 km
Explore Wrath Wines in Carmel-By-The-Sea for a memorable wine tasting experience surrounded by breathtaking coastal views.
Alfredo's Cantina
9.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alfredo's Cantina, Monterey's favorite cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
Britannia Arms
10.0 km
Discover Britannia Arms, a lively pub in Monterey offering a delightful mix of traditional dishes and local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
10.1 km
Indulge in artisanal cocktails and a cozy ambiance at The Whisky Club, Monterey's premier destination for whisky lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Compact Disco
10.1 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Compact Disco, where classic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
10.3 km
Discover the Best of California Wines at Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant in Monterey – A Cozy Spot for Enthusiasts and Casual Drinkers Alike.
Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
10.4 km
Discover craft beer in a historic train station at Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot, a lively brewpub in beautiful Monterey, California.
