What You Need to Know About Point Lobos in Monterey

Are you planning your Spring Break getaway and are looking for ideas on family-friendly destinations? I strongly recommend Monterey, California. There are multiple reasons to choose this absolutely fun destination, from great food -see our review on the Old Monterey Cafe and Louie Linguini’s restaurant- to the stunning attractions such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the Dennis the Menace park and the best kept secret: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Never heard of it? No worries. Here is what you need to know about Point Lobos in Monterey.

But What do You Need to Know About Point Lobos in Monterey?

In this post you will learn about our experience at this hidden gem and you will get valuable information and useful tips for the best experience. We have also included a video for great views of Point Lobos so make sure you check t out!

I discovered this hidden gem thanks to my friend Sue, who was born and raised in Monterey. I’ve talked to several people originally from Northern California who had no clue about this place until I mentioned it, so I decided it is my duty to spread the word out. It would seriously be unfair for people to miss this extraordinary place when visiting the Bay Area.

Point Lobos State Reserve is also known as “the crown jewel of the State Park System”, and it didn’t take long for us to understand why!

This beautiful place is great for hiking and wildlife /wildflower spotting. It has breathtaking views of the sea, nature and animals. In fact, it’s natural habitat for seals, otters, crabs, birds, and huge amounts of vegetation. There are plenty of trails to choose from and they are easy to access. We walked through all the well-maintained trails -about seven miles overall- with the girls and although there were many highlights, one of the best was seeing the sea lions at China Cove! The views are so amazing that pictures don’t do it justice!

Some locations you can climb down onto the rocks to explore more. We did and the girls were super excited! We saw little sea animals like crabs and fishes and touched different kinds of rocks and seaweeds. Some sites have stairs although most of the trails have very little incline and are relatively easy and accessible to people in wheelchairs.

Park rangers and volunteers were super helpful and friendly, providing us with directions and answering all kinds of questions.  One of them approached and started talking to the girls about the different flowers. One of them was the buttercups. Gigi was super excited and told him the story of how Disney princess Sophia the First is a buttercup (if you’re not familiar, it’s something like the Girls Scouts) and had many badges! LOL He was a sweetheart. We loved interacting with him.

We got there early and were able to find a parking spot inside the facilities for $10.  Parking area is limited so if you get there later you might have to park outside close to the entrance on Hwy1 and walk in. For an additional $2 donation, you get the map.

There are restrooms and a picnic area conveniently located. We stopped there for a while for snacks, which was perfect especially for the girls to have some rest.

If you are in Monterey, you really don’t want to miss this place!

Helpful Tips: Do‘s and Don’ts

Do

• Wear a good pair of walking shoes and a light jacket (Spring/Fall)

• Bring binoculars!

• Bring your photography gear or a fully charged phone.

• Get the map! It will come handy.

• Pack snacks or lunch and a good amount of water.

• Hike from Whaler’s Cove towards China Cove. Along the way, you can see beautiful sights of Carmel, Pebble Beach, and Big Sur.

• Budget about three to four hours depending on how many stops you do for photographing.

• If there are elderly in your party, there are walking sticks available at most trailheads.

Don’t

• Don’t bring your dogs or any other pets for that matter. They are not allowed anywhere within the reserve.

• Don’t use your bike while in the trails, it’s prohibited. You are welcome to use them in the pavement though.

• Don’t collect shells, rocks, wood, plants.  I know it’s tempting but those are an important part of the ecosystem. In addition, law prohibits it!

• Don’t smoke. It isn’t allowed either.  Besides, the breeze is so pure and refreshing, I swear you will enjoy it better with no smoke.

• Don’t bring your drone. 

• Don’t expect to stay after closing time.  Camping is not permitted.

Additional, valuable information:

Location: Point Lobos Natural Reserve is located in Route 1 Box 62 Carmel, CA 93923

Reserve Hours: 8am – 7pm. No Vehicles or Pedestrians may enter the Reserve after 6:30pm

We hope this post has inspired you to visit Point Lobos State Reserve with your family. Pin it for future reference!

Should you have any questions feel free to drop a comment.

Thanks for reading! …and remember, sharing is caring!