When it comes to awesome parks, California has an unfair advantage. The state is huge, and it encompasses tons of landscapes are are so unique-- from the lush green redwood forests in the North to the strange and mysterious deserts in the South, and everything in between, California is 163,000 square miles of American beauty. So at first it may seem weird that the so-called "gem of the California parks system" is Point Lobos State Reserve, a park in that weird "everything in between" part of the state... but once you get to know Point Lobos, it's pretty clear why its so special. Here's our guide to exploring this epic coastal park!
Wildlife galore
Humans aren't the only ones who find the Monterey Coast irresistable! Harbor seals, sea lions, elephant seals, orcas, sea otters, gray foxes, coyotes, and Monarch butterflies all can be found at Point Lobos. Brandt's cormorant are a must-see if you're into bird watching (and maybe even if you're not... they're pretty cool!) Also if you're visiting in the winter, you may not have the lovely sunny weather, but at least you'll get a chance to spot migrating grey whales, which can be seen from the shore. Oh, and if you're wondering about the differences between seals and sea lions, you'll know which you're looking at pretty easily, since sea lions can walk on land and seals have to worm their way along the beach.
Wet and wild
Kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming are all permitted (barring any other circumstances) just about anywhere in Point Lobos. Snorkeling and scuba diving give you a view from below the surface that's just as impressive as the view from land-- you'll swim through quiet kelp forests and meet all kinds of marine creatures. Kayaking lets you explore the smaller beaches, tucker away among the rocky coastline-- look for the breathtaking China Cove!
Whaler's Cabin Museum
This little shack has been around since even before whaling was a big thing! Built in the 1850's by fishermen from China, there used to be several others, but now only the one remains. No one is even sure if whalers ever lived in the so-called Whaler's Cabin Museum (although whale vertebrae were used to build the house's foundation), but the nickname has stuck, and since it's the oldest structure built by the Chinese in Monterey, it's been preserved as a museum. On display you'll find old Japanese diving equipment, Chinese fishing tools, a harpoon collection, and old whale bones, among other things.
The very best hiking
There's a hiking trail for every interest along the coasts of Point Lobos-- and they're all truly breathtaking, so choose freely! The Sea Lion Point Trail takes you past the best place to see sea lions (duh), Bird Island Trailwill take you to the enchanting China Cove and Gibson Beach, and theNorth Shore Trail - Point Lobos provides more stunning coastal views. Or, book the California Legacy Tour's guided walk around Point Lobos-- you'll get a passionate and experienced guide who will add an extra dimension of information and expert hints to your trip to Point Lobos.
Food and sleepy time!
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