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
269 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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For solo

For two

For groups

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

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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

Super chill place to visit. So many trails, long and short, many wheelchair and stroller accessible. Wonderful docents are there and have so much knowledge! Just spectacular! If you're coming to Monterey County, this is a must do!

Loved the park, its cedar grove, and multiple vista views of the Pacific ocean! Trails are great, they meander through cedar forest directly to the ocean where you can spot sea lions, sea otters and lots of birds. The parks gets full during peak hours, but can park on the side of highway. It is an extra 5 minute walk to the park, but this way no need to pay the park entrance fee.

We did the entire 6 mile loop. There are some steep, narrow or switch back areas, but mostly a leisurely stroll with some of the most magnificent views I have ever seen! Cypress Grove and China Cove were absolutely STUNNING! The docent in the whalers cabin gave us a lot of good tips and history on point lobos. By far one of my most favorite hikes to date!

Last Saturday, March 30, 2024, I went here for a hike with my sisters in Christ and I loved it. The trails were easy and the walk was long. We bumped into a dead-end and were curious to see what we could find at the end of the trail. I saw a cave there and a good view of the waves :) It was cloudy when we arrived. I would come here again😁

Fun exploration experience! Check out the active tide pools and stumble across a Harbor Seal nursery cove. Beautiful rocks, water, and plant and animal life. Very well maintained trails.

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