Point Lobos

"If you’re looking to get outside, head here for a beautiful walk along the coast. You’ll be able to spot wildlife here like seals, sea otters, and even whales! The park contains many hikes, but I recommend the lesser-known Whaler's Knoll trail: It's not as difficult as the popular Canyon Trail, but still a workout that promises incredible views and potential seal sightings. You can get to Whaler's Knoll directly from the road, or by first taking the North Shore Trail, which will show you even more of what Point Lobos has to offer. I also recommend Point the Bird Island Trail, the only in-out trail in the park. It takes you out to see where a lot of the pelicans nest in the rocks and you’ll even spot harbor seals in a hidden cove. Other popular trails here the Sand Hill Trail, Sea Lion Point Trail, and Cypress Grove Trail. The Cypress Grove Trail is an easy one-mile loop that takes you through one of the last remaining areas of naturally growing Monterey Cypress trees left on earth. China Cove Beach is also beautiful! It is good to note that it a paid entrance to get into Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. As you approach the entrance, you will see a lot of cars parked along the road. Alternatively, you could do this and walk down to the coastal trails. In the park itself, there are bathrooms and picnic tables for use."

"Point Lobos is often referred to as "The Crown Jewel of the CA State Park System" due to the stunning views where the turquoise water meets the rugged coastline. Entry is $10 per car, and the parking lot fills up fast, however there are numerous free spots outside the entrance if you don't mind a little extra walking. Point Lobos offers panoramic views of the coastline, trails through the old cypress trees, and plenty of opportunities to spot seals, sea lions, and sea otters Our favorite hikes include: 🥾 Point Lobos Loop Trail - 6.4 mi roundtrip following the coast 🥾 Cypress Grove Trail - 0.9 mi roundtrip through the beautiful twisted Cypress trees 🥾 Bird Island Trail - 0.8 mi roundtrip around the China Cove coastline out to the viewpoint for the appropriately named Bird Island "