Discover the Serene Beauty of China Cove

Getting There

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.