Carmel - Point Lobos State Reserve

South of Carmel is a beautiful stretch of coastline that is encompassed by Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. The reserve is a natural area of dramatic granite cliffs, unusual rock formations created by the erosion, headlands, caves, rock-enclosed ponds which continually re-form. Waves crash on the off shore rocks while tidal pools reveal some small marine life.

There are some interesting hiking trails that offer fabulous views over the headlands, ocean, and meadows. If you are lucky you may see sea otters, seals, sea lions, and during the winter months you may even spot whales. Point Lobos State Reserve also includes a large section of underwater area, and scuba diving is also popular in the area. At Whalers Cove is an old cabin which has been turned into a cultural history museum.

You can cover the whole area, but a rather difficult stretch, almost 6mi/10km long, starts at the entrance to Point Lobos on the CA 1 and will take some three to five hours.

If you have less time to spare you should at least walk along the Cypress Grove Trail (many Monterey cypresses) and the North Shore Trail.