This Is the ‘Crown Jewel of the California State Park System’

On the northern end of California’s Central Coast, the region’s rolling hills and sunny beaches give way to misty bays and cypress groves, pounding turquoise surf and steep, plunging cliffs. Harbor seals and otters bob in the waves, and, a little further offshore, whale spouts rise above the water. This type of scenery is usually synonymous with Big Sur, but to fully experience the region’s splendor, you’ll have to drive just a little further north on Highway 1.

That will bring you to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Often called the “crown jewel of the California state park system,” the gorgeous land that Point Lobos encompasses has been preserved in some form since the turn of the 20th century, when Alexander MacMillan Allan purchased plots on the point with conservation in mind. The Allan family sold hundreds of acres to the state in 1933, and the park continues to draw countless roadtrippers, international visitors, and even locals to explore its shores. 

“Point Lobos, for nearly 100 years, has been protected,” says Dan Shaw, Monterey District superintendent. “It’s one of the most amazing natural wonders in the world, and that’s because for all these years, our visitors have taken great care of the place. Our volunteers from the Point Lobos Foundation have been instrumental in being present to care for Point Lobos.”

Today, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve encompasses roughly five-and-a-half square miles, including approximately 500 acres on land and an extensive marine preserve. Thanks to the park’s location on the California coast, visitors can enjoy Point Lobos’ scenery—underwater attractions included—even in winter.

“Every day, every condition is good,” says Shaw, though he notes that extreme winds can lead to closures in the park. “If it’s foggy, it’s beautiful. If it’s sunny, it’s beautiful. The trails are in really good condition, so it’s going to be a special experience no matter what.”

While we’re on the subject, hiking tends to be the main attraction at Point Lobos. The park’s dozen trails meander through a diverse range of ecosystems, from seaside meadows to clifftop groves of Monterey cypress, a species that only grows in the area. You can choose from accessible paths to stunning vista points, a climb to a hidden beach, or a relaxed stroll to the Whalers Cabin, a remnant of Monterey’s 19th-century whaling industry.

Needless to say, there’s a trail for every kind of hiker. “Pick a trail that fits with your lifestyle and what you would like to accomplish on that day, and take time to really soak in the amazing scenery,” says Shaw. “Don’t rush it.” 

While you walk, keep your camera out and an eye on both the water and the land for local wildlife. Gray whales swim by during winter, en route to warmer weather in Baja California, and you’re likely to spot humpbacks between April and November. Point Lobos also hosts a resident population of harbor seals and sea lions, and gets occasional visits from elephant seals.

You might even be able to glimpse these animals up close and personal if you go beneath the waves. Though the Pacific gets chilly, especially in winter, Point Lobos has a vibrant underwater ecosystem comprising dense kelp forests and unique fish and mammal species. “Winter can be some of the best conditions for diving,” says Shaw. “Point Lobos is the first underwater reserve in the United States. It’s a world-renowned diving location with a really important history.” Divers (and intrepid snorkelers) can call, email, or visit Point Lobos’ website to make a reservation. 

Whether you want to explore on land or sea, Shaw suggests setting aside the time to chat with a knowledgeable local docent from the Point Lobos Foundation. The park has 250 volunteers who can give customized recommendations on hiking trails, sightseeing, and more.

“Having those dedicated volunteers really allows a visitor to ask questions on the things that interest them, so it’s a one-on-one type of experience,” Shaw says. He also has valuable advice for visitors looking to avoid the crowds: “It’s busy year-round, so get here early, or, if you can, come on a weekday.”

Point Lobos doesn’t have any overnight accommodations or eateries, but fortunately, the park is minutes from the myriad lodging and dining options of Carmel-by-the-Sea. After hiking or diving, head into town to sample fresh, California-caught seafood at spots like Catch and Sea Harvest Fish Market & Restaurant. If you’re in the mood for a splurge, reserve a table for dinner at the Michelin-starred Chez Noir, which dishes up elevated coastal eats like sea urchin tagliatelle and a caviar funnel cake. 

As for hotels, you can pick from a wide variety of luxe stays and quaint cottages alike. Bespoke bed & breakfast chain Le Petit Pali has two Carmel-by-the-Sea locations, both of which offer a curated inn experience with a variety of complimentary amenities. Alternatively, you can get cozy at the 16-key Villa Mara Carmel, ranked No. 2 in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards for the best inns in the continental U.S.—it’s famed for its views of Carmel Beach and excellent on-site eats.