Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

"Point Lobos has been on our bucket list for so long and we were stoked to finally visit this past weekend! If you ever drive California’s famous Highway 1 as a road trip, it’s a great stop along the itinerary. Here are our top recommendations for visiting this beautiful nature reserve: 🚙 PARKING, INFO & GETTING THERE: You do have to pay $10 to park inside the reserve, and dogs are not allowed at all, not even inside the parking lot. The reserve is only open from 8 am-5 pm too. Make sure to get there early because parking does get pretty full, but there were also some street parking options right outside of the park. If you’re staying in Monterey or Carmel, this spot is super close to visit! 📆 BEST TIME TO GO: We visited in January but the area is beautiful year-round! Summer gets more crowds so keep that in mind. 🥾FUN HIKES TO CHECK OUT: The most popular trails are the Cyprus Grove Trail, Sea Lion Point Trail, and the Bird Island Trail. All provide stunning scenes of the California coast 😍 The famous China Cove doesn’t disappoint too! As always, please leave no trace when visiting! 🌱"

"This stunning nature reserve has the best classic Monterey Bay views. Hit the park in the morning before the fog rolls in to appreciate all the inlets, islands, and wildlife surrounding this little peninsula. The walking trail has some steep parts and isn't paved, so be sure to keep that in mind when setting out on your adventure. If you park outside the reserve and walk in, it's free! Otherwise there's a $10 entry fee per car. Local tip: don't miss the whaler's cabin along the trail! This little structure is still the original construction and has been turned into a museum depicting the history of whaling and abalone fishing in the area. Keep an eye out for docents (volunteer guides) along the trail who can tell you about local wildlife and history! "

"Why: Some of the water here is a clear blue. Plus cute seal pups! Length: This whole park is beautiful! But the most popular trails are Point Lobos Loop (6.4 mi), Cypress Grove Trail (1.8 mi), Bird Island (1.9 mi) Parking: There are many lots throughout the park Best Time to Go: In my opinion, all year round. Tips: -Check out the seal pups late March to mid-May by overlooking China Cove. The water there is the most clear and blue -Download the area on Google Maps so you can have access offline Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/K4e9mc6ToVksc3zQ6 "