Discover Point Lobos: Scenic Trails and Wildlife Encounters

Go on a journey through Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where the beauty of Big Sur condenses into an unforgettable hiking and wildlife experience.

Last updated: Apr 2024

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$10 per car for park entry
404 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
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Description

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a gem on the California Coast near Carmel-By-The-Sea, encapsulates the essence of Big Sur's natural beauty within a manageable space. With a small entrance fee of $10, this day-use area opens up a world of exploration from 8 AM to 5 PM, though early arrival is recommended due to limited parking. Notable trails like the Cypress Grove and Sea Lion Point offer easy yet rewarding hikes with stunning coastal views and wildlife sightings. Bird Island Trail adds a magical touch with its coastal bluff walks leading to areas teeming with seals, sea lions, and bird-covered islands. For history enthusiasts, the Whaler’s Cabin museum presents a peek into the area's past whaling activities.

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Itinerary

Arrive early to secure parking at desired trailhead.
Pay the $10 entry fee at the park's entrance.
Start with the Cypress Grove Trail for an immersive forest and coastal experience.
Proceed to Sea Lion Point Trail for breathtaking sea lion sightings.
Explore Bird Island Trail for an enchanting walk along coastal bluffs leading to wildlife-rich coves and islands.
Visit the Whaler’s Cabin museum for a historical perspective on the area.
Plan for breaks at scenic viewpoints to fully appreciate the natural beauty.

Location

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923

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Packing List

Comfortable hiking shoes
Water bottle
Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Camera
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Light snacks

4.8 ● Google reviews

It is very beautiful. So many views of the ocean and rocky shoreline. It's got some stairs. I would rate parts of it as intermediate level hike. Most is easy. Very little to no handicap accessible.

A wonderful nature reserve! So much to see! But be careful since there is a ton of poison oak! Not as accessible since some trails are mildly steep with rocks. But some areas are decent! 100% recommend this park. We got there super early. Didn’t need to wait too long and there was decent parking available. We stayed for 2-3 hours. There are public restrooms and a little shop to get some souvenirs! The volunteers were so sweet and friendly. There was some free walking tours with the volunteers. By the time we were leaving, tons of people. Also dogs are not allowed. But overall such a lovely park!

Very cool place to visit. My favorite stops are the tidal pools and the hidden beach. You can either park and go to the cool spots (there is parking near each stop) or leave your car and do the trails. I've gone twice. One time with our kiddos and another just the hubby and I. We enjoyed both times.

Great hike with some really good views. It’s a nice hike around the point with something to see at every corner. Definitely recommend going to check this place out on a summer day when the weather is nice. It’s fairly busy so be prepared for people on the trail.

Absolutely stunning little hike and ocean view! Parking is a challenge, and you’ll likely have a .5-1.0 mile walk from parking on the road to the entrance… but if you take the trail on the left inside, it’s the shortest and easiest walk. Once you pop out of the wooded trail, you are welcomed by 20 mph cool breeze off the ocean that quickly corrects any sweat you had from the trail. It’s gorgeous; a perfect blend of exercise, views and breeze! Wear real shoes, the trail is dusty so your feet will look like a poor coal miners child if you wear flip flops / sandals.

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