Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
#2 in Best Things To Do in Monterey
Price & Hours
Details
- 5.0Value
- 3.5Facilities
- 5.0Atmosphere
South of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve receives praise from almost everyone who visits. The dramatic rock formations rising from the ocean have most visitors gawking, while the cute creatures like pocket gopher and the southern sea otter keep the nature-lovers smiling. The reserve's 13 trails offer hikers both easy and challenging opportunities. The Cypress Grove Trail is especially popular due to its views of the rugged coast and the gnarled Monterey cypress trees that perch precariously on the seaside cliffs.
If you like to dive, you're in luck. Point Lobos has 10 diving spots where you can swim through 70-foot-high kelp forests and various coral reefs. If you're lucky, you may catch site of passing seals and whales.
Parking inside the reserve costs $10, but many travelers park outside of it along Highway 1 and walk in for free (though a $1 donation is recommended). Visitors are welcome from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, check out the Point Lobos Foundation's website.
More Best Things To Do in Monterey


#1 Carmel-by-the-Sea
Located south of Monterey and Pebble Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a humble seaside village with a few small shops and cafes -- at least that's the cover story. In truth, this pricey town has plenty of designer stores, gourmet eateries and upscale art galleries that cater to its wealthy residents (like Clint Eastwood). You'll find most shoppers and diners around picturesque Ocean Avenue, which leads to Carmel Beach.
Many forego the town's activities in favor of catching some rays on the expansive dog-friendly beach. Recent visitors recommend taking a long walk along the shore at sunset or sunrise. For more information about Carmel-by-the-Sea, check out the town's website.
Explore More of Monterey
If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.
Recommended
30 Top Florida Weekend Getaways
Gwen PratesiDecember 9, 2019
The Best Travel Backpacks for 2020
Lyn MettlerNovember 25, 2019
30 Top Wellness Retreats
Kyle McCarthyNovember 21, 2019
30 Fun All-Inclusive Family Vacations
Holly JohnsonNovember 14, 2019
5 Ways Cruise Lines Are Becoming More Environmentally Friendly
Gwen PratesiNovember 12, 2019
11 Unique and Quirky Cruise Destinations
Christine SmithNovember 12, 2019
The 2020 Best Cruise Lines for Families
Nicola WoodNovember 12, 2019
The Top Pyramids in Mexico to Visit
Lyn MettlerOctober 28, 2019