Point Lobos State Natural Reserve Tours and Activities

Point Lobos State Reserve which includes a bay or harbour, landscape views and general coastal views
Point Lobos State Reserve which includes general coastal views and rugged coastline
Point Lobos State Reserve showing rocky coastline and general coastal views
Point Lobos State Reserve
Point Lobos State Reserve showing tranquil scenes and hiking or walking as well as an individual female


This wildlife sanctuary, a magnet for nature lovers and artists, is a jewel of the California State Park system. 

Follow misty hiking trails through towering cypress trees along dramatic, craggy shorelines and down to secluded beaches. Once the home of whalers, sealers and fishermen, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and surrounding waters are now a protected wildlife and marine reserve.

The California sea lion is plentiful in this area, with hundreds of them sunning on the rocks along the shore between August and June. Sea otters can also be seen searching for food in the kelp beds just offshore. Look a little further out in the ocean for gray whales on their long annual migration between December and May. It’s also possible to see mountain lions and coyotes roaming inside the reserve. Both are used to human activity but shouldn’t be approached or fed. Many bird species thrive here too. Keep an out for the beautiful black-crowned night heron and brown pelican.

Hiking is a popular activity at Point Lobos, with trails running alongside the shore and offering stunning views. Follow the Cypress Grove trail to the ocean at sunset to capture the perfect photo. The trees here sometimes appear orange due to a build up of algae, and the light is forever changing as fog rolls in from the ocean. The best way to experience Point Lobos marine life is by scuba diving or snorkeling. Kelp forests just offshore support a variety of fish and plant life, all of which is protected by state law. You can rent diving gear from several nearby shops. Certified divers can make reservations prior to arrival via the Point Lobos State Reserve website.

Find the Whalers Cabin Museum in an old shack by the water. Chinese and Portuguese whalers built dozens of these cabins here in the mid-1850s, but only this one remains. The museum’s exhibits include harpoons, blubber pots and a model of an old whaling boat. Enormous bleached whale bones scattered around the cabin provide an eeriereminder of the once bloody trade.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is three miles (five kilometers) south of Carmel. It’s a 15-minute car drive from downtown Monterey, or catch a MST bus to Point Lobos. Set aside an afternoon or entire day to explore the reserve. Bring a snack or picnic, as there are no food outlets inside the park.

Plan a trip to see Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
The LEEF Hotel
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, a Hyatt Luxury Resort
Glendale Hotel

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Carmel Bay View Inn

Carmel Bay View Inn

2.5 out of 5
Junipero Street Between 5th And 6th St, Carmel, CA
Carmel Bay View Inn
Carmel Mission Inn

Carmel Mission Inn

3.5 out of 5
3665 Rio Rd, Carmel, CA
Carmel Mission Inn
La Playa Hotel

La Playa Hotel

4 out of 5
Camino Real at Eighth Ave., Carmel, CA
La Playa Hotel
Ocean view suite in a restored barn - walkable to Pt. Lobos and Monastery Beach!

Ocean view suite in a restored barn - walkable to Pt. Lobos and Monastery Beach!

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Ocean view suite in a restored barn - walkable to Pt. Lobos and Monastery Beach!
Hyatt Carmel Highlands

Hyatt Carmel Highlands

4 out of 5
120 Highland Dr, Carmel, CA
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Exquisite home with remarkable ocean views, fireplace & generous patio

Exquisite home with remarkable ocean views, fireplace & generous patio

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Exquisite home with remarkable ocean views, fireplace & generous patio
Carmel Beach Hotel

Carmel Beach Hotel

3.5 out of 5
San Antonio Ave & 13th Ave, Carmel, CA
Carmel Beach Hotel
Beach Front Cottages with Stunning Views Abalone Cottage

Beach Front Cottages with Stunning Views Abalone Cottage

Carmel
Beach Front Cottages with Stunning Views Abalone Cottage
Carmel River Inn

Carmel River Inn

3 out of 5
26600 Oliver Rd, Carmel, CA
Carmel River Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

At Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking along scenic trails, picnicking at picturesque spots, and capturing stunning views at designated viewpoints. The reserve is also ideal for photo tours, with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Additional activities nearby include scuba diving, golfing, and witnessing spectacular sunsets, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Shopping

In Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, you'll find charming shopping experiences at Carmel Plaza, The Barnyard, and The Doud Arcade, all located 4.8km away. Each offers a delightful mix of family-friendly shops and entertainment vibes. If you're up for a drive, you can explore even more options in nearby Carmel.

Recreation

At Pebble Beach Golf Links, enjoy breathtaking ocean views while playing a round of golf, perfect for both relaxation and recreation. Nearby, Jacks Peak County Park offers serene hiking trails amidst nature, ideal for unwinding. Spyglass Hill Golf Course combines sport with stunning landscapes, enhancing your outdoor experience.

Adventure

At WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, 19.3km from Point Lobos, feel the adrenaline rush of motor racing amidst thrilling sports vibes. Meanwhile, the Waterfront, located 9.7km away, invites you to embrace the great outdoors, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying stunning coastal views.

Nightlife

For a delightful evening near Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, consider catching a show at the Sunset Center, offering a mix of culture and romance. For family fun, try the Monterey Mirror Maze & Lazer Challenge, or enjoy thrilling rides at Sky Glider, a short drive away.

Find the best attractions near Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in Carmel, California, offers a stunning blend of beach, historic sites, and outdoor experiences for travellers seeking culture and adventure. Explore the diverse attractions, including the scenic Point Lobos, the historic Point Lobos Ranch, and the breathtaking coastal views. This area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the rich history that surrounds the reserve.

  • 27.4km Drive: A scenic route that showcases stunning coastal views and luxurious homes. Experience the diverse landscapes, from rugged cliffs to tranquil beaches, while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of nearby towns.
  • Carmel Beach: This picturesque beach offers a perfect blend of soft white sand and stunning sunsets. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax as the waves crash against the shore, creating a serene beach vibe.
  • Carmel Mission Basilica: A historic landmark, this beautifully preserved church reflects the rich cultural heritage of California. Explore its stunning architecture and lush gardens while learning about its significant role in the state's history.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a budget-friendly destination with free entry. Nearby attractions like 17-Mile Drive, Carmel Beach, and Fisherman’s Wharf also have no entrance fees. To save on accommodation, visit between November and January, as prices drop compared to the summer months. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to compare hotel rates, find discounts, and consider package deals that bundle flights and activities for additional savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Point Lobos State Natural Reserve are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on costs by combining your hotel stay at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.