We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers: Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox. Mac: Safari.
Free Newsletter

Interested in Carmel?

We'll send you updates with the latest deals, reviews and articles for Carmel each week.

  • Save Point Lobos State Reserve
  • E-mail this page

Point Lobos State Reserve


TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 5.0 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #1 of 87 attractions in Carmel
Traveler Description:  Point Lobos State Reserve is a "must" when visiting the Carmel area.  A small fee will gain you entrance into the park.  The ranger will gladly hand... more »
Know about Point Lobos State Reserve? Share your expertise with other travelers. Add to this description now.
Attraction type: State park, Beach, Nature reserve, Wildlife park, Other, Hiking trail
Activities: Hiking, Viewing wildlife, Whale watching, Scuba diving, Walking, Birdwatching
Address: Route 1
Box 62 Carmel, CA 93923
Tel: 831 624 4909

Reviews you can trust

[ Date ] [ Rating ]
Save Review
5 of 5 stars
Outshort1   1 contribution
Los Angeles
Oct 17, 2009

My in laws from Germany were vising California, and my wife and I thought we'd take them up north to Monterey and Carmel. On our last day we decided to go for a hike in Point Lobos - it was a great experience, even if it was just for a day. The scenery was just beautiful, and we thought we... more

Save Review
5 of 5 stars
rwdw   234 contributions
Catlin, Illinois
Oct 11, 2009

I became concerned driving down to Point Lobos when I saw Carmel Bay fogged in. We drove on to the entrance and I asked the ranger if the heavy fog would make our visit worth it. In other words, will we be able to see anything? The ranger told us that we would be able to see inthe park, but... more

Save Review
5 of 5 stars
ahoyhoy   10 contributions
Orange County, CA
Oct 9, 2009

We stopped here as part of a 2 day trip to Monterey. It's a short drive to Carmel along Highway 1 and once you arrive there are about 3 or 4 parking lots where you can park and explore. We did most of the trails along the coast and the scenery was breathtaking. We saw various flora and fauna including... more

Save Review
5 of 5 stars
rawkneee   68 contributions
Sunny California
Sep 25, 2009
1/1 found this review helpful

There are so many places here to take pictures of scenery. The scenery is amazing. If you hike down the trails to the beaches, there's lots of interesting finds. There's multiple tipe pools where you can see and photograph lots of neat stuff. We saw many sea stars, anemones, urchins, crabs, and many other neat things in the super clear... more

Save Review
5 of 5 stars
cardsfaninchitown   2 contributions
Midwest, US
Sep 9, 2009

This is a breathtaking nature reserve worth every penny of the $10 admission fee. We stopped by in the late afternoon as we were driving through during a week-long trip to Northern CA. Got to see hundreds of sea lions, birds, etc. Bring your camera and a picnic lunch. more

Save Review
5 of 5 stars
ck0728   20 contributions
ck0728
Aug 20, 2009

Definitely a must-see for a Carmel-Monterey visit. Absolutely breathtaking views and you also can get up close to the tidepools, etc. Lots of seals and otters and sea lions too. An easy hike, definitely do-able in a few hours. The park ranger at the entrance was very helpful and friendly and our entrance fee got us into other nearby parks... more

Save Review
5 of 5 stars
bw92116   22 contributions
San Diego, California
Jul 8, 2009
1/1 found this review helpful

This is a must-see spot if you're driving along the coast in the Carmel - Monterey - Big Sur area. It's on Highway 1, 3 miles south of Carmel. It's only open in the daytime, and closes 30 minutes after sunset. The afternoon until sunset is the best time to be there, but no matter what time of day you... more

Save Review
5 of 5 stars
Stevied888   518 contributions
Brandon, Florida
Jun 27, 2009
1/1 found this review helpful

The park is absoluetly beautiful wtih terrifc trails with wonderful views. Highlights are the sea lions and China Beach. Remember a jacket because it is windy here. On prior visits it was also foggy so try to plan around the foggiest times to enjoy this park the most. more

Save Review
5 of 5 stars
Hellwege   4 contributions
Lincoln, NE
Apr 8, 2009

My entire family loved this place. I have a 4 and 7 year old and they just couldn't get enough of it. The hiking trails are great. There are tide pools to explore. The scenery is unbelievable. Great beaches to play on. Just wonderful! more

Save Review
5 of 5 stars
ken krouse   23 contributions
Wausau, WI
Mar 29, 2009

We heard a lot about Point Lobos - "beautiful" etc. and it was - we went back twice during our short stay - Cypress Grove walk was amazing - Someone suggested walking around the perimeter of Pt. Lobos and I'd agree - but just don't miss Cypress Grove and the north shore more

Travelers Who Viewed This Attraction Also Viewed
No photo provided
Location: Carmel, Monterey Peninsula
Price not available
No photo provided
Location: Carmel, Monterey Peninsula
Price not available
No photo provided
Location: Carmel, Monterey Peninsula
Price not available
Write Your Own Attraction Review

Been to Point Lobos State Reserve? Share your experiences!

Write a Review
Add Photos
Add Videos

Point Lobos State Reserve: Management Resources

TripAdvisor has free and easy resources to help you enhance your listing and promote your property.

  • Start Here - Visit Your Owners' Center
  • Add Photo
  • Add Video

Point Lobos State Reserve Address

Route 1, Box 62, Carmel, CA 93923
Tel: 831 624 4909