Point Lobos State Reserve
Carmel, CA 93923
Phone: (831) 624-4909
- Hours:
- Summer: 9am-6:30pm, Winter: 9am-4:30pm
Editorial Review for Point Lobos State Reserve – by Stephanie Rosenbaum
Overview
Located 3 miles south of Carmel, the reserve encompasses nearly 400 acres of postcard-perfect California coastline and more than 700 underwater acres. Certified scuba divers can enjoy the underwater delights of Whaler's and Bluefish coves. While there's no overnight camping in the park, Point Lobos is looped with pleasant, well-maintained hiking trails for any fitness level. California-history buffs can check out the Whaler's Cabin, a small cultural history museum located in a Chinese fisherman's cabin dating back to the 1850s.
The Experience
Along the North Shore trail, black-tailed deer, herons, egrets and harbor seals lounge on rocks, stroll through meadows and fish in the many coves. The Cypress Cove trail winds through stands of gnarled, old-growth native Monterey cypress, while the Sand Hill Trail to Sea Lion Point offers glimpses of otters, harbor seals and sea lions amid spectacular surf and clusters of jagged rocks.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoThe entrance to the reserve is 3 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1.
The ExtrasTrail brochures can be purchased for $1 at the vehicle entrance off Highway 1.
User Reviews for Point Lobos State Reserve
11/09/2006 Posted by mpascuzzi
If you have only enough time to do one thing on the Monterey Penninsula this is it. There are trails for every level of experience, even a wheelchair access trail with some of the best veiws in the park. The entry fee is nominal, but parking is a challenge. Summer weekends can be very crowded, but bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the vibe.
Pros: Overwhelming beauty, helpful rangers and volunteers
Cons: Parking
07/22/2004 Posted by martins4ne
While visiting the area we visited Point Lobos 3 separate times. The children loved playing in and examining the tide pools. In fact I was just as fascinated as they were with the sealife! We packed a lunch one day and had our lunch there. All in all it was very educational and very beautiful. I recommend it to anyone visiting the area. I can't wait to go back!
Pros: wildlife setting, scenary, low cost
Cons: , narrow roadways
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