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Hike Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Your guide to the greatest meeting of land and water in the world
Discover the Trails
Six stunning trails showcasing dramatic coastline, ancient cypresses, and abundant wildlife
EasyCypress Grove Trail
The reserve's most popular trail winds through one of two naturally growing Monterey Cypress stands left on Earth. Hikers navigate dramatic cliffs with direct views of the Headland Cove kelp forests.
EasyBird Island Trail
A fully accessible trail showcasing the park's most vibrant turquoise waters and abundant avian life. The route offers views of white guano-covered rocks and access to the pristine Gibson Beach.
EasySea Lion Point Trail
An exposed coastal trail leading to rocky formations where the loud barking of sea lions is audible year-round. This path offers excellent vantage points for spotting migrating gray whales in winter.
ModerateSouth Shore Trail
This trail hugs the rocky coastline between Sea Lion Point and the Bird Island area, offering direct access to tide pools. It is known for its multi-colored sandstone geology and wave action.
ModerateNorth Shore Trail
A rugged path connecting Whalers Cove to Sea Lion Point that requires navigating tree roots and rock stairs. It offers elevated views of Bluefish Cove and runs through dense Monterey Pine forests.
EasyGranite Point Trail
Starting near the historic Whalers Cabin, this trail heads north to a scenic overlook of the cove. It provides excellent opportunities to spot otters in the kelp beds below.
ModeratePoint Lobos Loop
The Point Lobos Loop Trail invites you on a spectacular coastal adventure along the Pacific Ocean. As you explore, you'll discover stunning environments from lush groves of iconic Monterey pine and Cypress trees to vibrant coastal scrubland with expansive ocean views and fascinating tide pools along rocky beaches.
EasySea Lion Point to Hidden Beach Loop
This loop leads through coastal landscape ending with stunning ocean views. Ground squirrels scamper along the path while harbor seals sunbathe on rocks near the cove's edge. A steep staircase leads to a lower path and the secluded pebbly Hidden Beach.
EasyBird Island, South Plateau & Mound Meadow Loop
The trail leads toward Bird Island, a sizable rock famous for abundant bird life especially in spring and summer. Hundreds of Brandt's cormorants nest close together alongside Black-crowned night herons and Western gulls. Hike through stunning coastline and Monterey pine woodlands.
EasySand Hill Trail via Lace Lichen Trail
The Lace Lichen Trail takes hikers on a peaceful walk through woods leading to gorgeous ocean cliff views. An easy, smooth and wide path winds through beautiful cypress trees. A great route if short on time, with opportunities to spot sea lions, otters, and pelicans.
EasyMoss Cove Trail
Follow Carmelo Meadow and Granite Point Trails to access Moss Cove Trail. Along the way, make a small loop around Coal Chute Point and Granite Point. A small spur trail leads down to the secluded Moss Cove with its tide pools and rocky shoreline.
EasySouth Plateau Trail to Bird Island
A nice short trail through the woods to the Bird Island Lookout, making for a great mix of both forest and coastal terrain. The trail winds through Monterey pines before emerging at spectacular viewpoints overlooking Bird Island and the southern coastline.
Visitor Information
Hours
8 AM - 5 PM
Entry Fee
$10/vehicle
Location
Hwy 1, Carmel
Last Entry
4:30 PM
Good to know
- Walk-in or bike entry: $5/person
- Open daily, year-round
- Cash or card accepted at kiosk
Reserve Regulations
Help protect this natural reserve:
- No dogs allowed (even in vehicles)
- No drones
- Stay on marked trails
- No collecting shells or rocks
- No bikes on trails
The Best Introduction to the Reserve
Don't wander aimlessly. Our 2-hour guided excursion hits the iconic cliffs and hidden groves without the guesswork.
- Perfect for families & beginners (Easy pace)
- We track China Cove openings daily
- Flexible routing based on group pace
Know Before You Go
Parking Strategy
The Reserve limits parking to 150 vehicles, and lots at Cypress Grove and Bird Island fill rapidly (often by 9:30 AM). Arrive at 8:00 AM sharp or visit after 3:00 PM to secure a spot.
Weather Layering
Expect a Mediterranean climate with temperatures ranging from 57-65F. Summer mornings often feature a heavy marine fog layer that clears by afternoon, so dressing in layers is essential.
Poison Oak Warning
Poison oak is rampant throughout the park, often growing tall along the edges of narrow trails like the North Shore. Stay strictly on marked paths to avoid contact.
Wildlife Disturbance
Harbor seals pup on beaches (like China Cove) from March to May; maintain a distance of at least 50 yards (150 feet) and never approach resting animals.
Hydration & Food
There are no concessions or food vendors inside the Reserve. Bring your own reusable water bottle to fill at stations near the Whalers Cove or Bird Island picnic areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
California's Crown Jewel Since 1933
Where Ancient Cypress Trees Meet the Roaring Pacific
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve isn't just another stop on Highway 1. Spanning 550 acres of dramatic headlands and hidden coves just three miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this protected sanctuary harbors one of only two naturally occurring Monterey Cypress groves left on Earth.
Each trail reveals something extraordinary: harbor seals nursing pups on secluded beaches, sea otters floating in emerald kelp forests, and the thunderous bark of California sea lions echoing across granite cliffs. Whether you're chasing the perfect photograph at China Cove or watching gray whales breach during their winter migration, Point Lobos delivers the kind of raw coastal beauty that made Big Sur famous.
The reserve limits daily visitors to protect this fragile ecosystem. Plan ahead, arrive early, and discover why artist Francis McComas called this “the greatest meeting of land and water in the world.”