Out And About: Point Lobos State Reserve
Three miles south of Carmel, tucked away between Highway 1 and
the Pacific Ocean lies one of the most beautiful places on God's
great earth. Point Lobos State Reserve is a treasure chest waiting
to be explored and enjoyed.
Highlights:
Dan says: "There
are so many photo opportunities here! Bring a lot of film and
don't be afraid to use it. Whaler's Cove is a great spot for
photos, as are the tidepools and rocks on the shore. Make sure
you get your map when you first come in. Take the time to read
it. It's informative and interesting, and will help you decide
which places to visit first."
Grace adds: "The hiking is generally at a pretty
leisurely pace, with not too many steep grades. Sometimes the
trails are narrow, but they're all clearly marked. Beautifully
carved benches adorn many of the paths, providing a rest and
picture opportunity at frequent intervals."
Other things not to be missed include:
· China Beach
It's worth the
over 100 steps down to the beach to see this striking jade-green
inlet. Play tag with its icy-cold waters lapping at the white
sand beach, explore the "pirate's cave", or enjoy the
beauty of the cliff-hanging gardens.
· Whaler's Cove This protected cove is a scuba-diver's
paradise. We watched the divers, and were then thrilled to see
a sea otter up close, putting on his own show for us, seemingly
unconcerned that we were only one over-anxious child's jump away.
There's a mini-trail on the west side that takes less than ten
minutes to complete, but gives you a wonderful view of Pebble
Beach. You can also visit the whaling museum on the weekends,
which traces the history of whaling in Monterey County. The kids
were very interested to see all the registered scuba divers and
their gear preparing to dive in the cove.
· Gibson Beach Just past the final entrance to
Bird Island is a protected cove with white sand beaches, gentle
waves and a serenity not often found on the Pacific. Bring your
blanket and your sunblock, and enjoy a catnap while your spouse
keeps an eye on the children.
· Mound Meadow Beautiful wildflowers create a canvas
of pinks, yellows, purples, and reds in an artistic spray. Absolutely
gorgeous in the springtime.
Point Lobos displays both the beauty and the force of nature. It's a place to be held in awe, yet to touch and experience that which is awe-inspiring.
Out & About Helpful Hints: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the picnic area. Just be careful of ants, squirrels and other creatures who shouldn't be eating "people-food." Don't forget plenty of drinking water, especially if you plan to do any hiking. Use the clean bathrooms in the picnic area before you start on a hike (where no facilities are available.)
Kid Safety Considerations: The ocean is unpredictable. Never turn your back to it, nor underestimate its power. Especially when near the sea or on the hiking trails, keep your children in plain sight. Some of the trails (Bird Island in particular) are on the narrow side. Keep the kids on the inside of the path, away from the cliffs.
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At A Glance Point Lobos State Reserve Route 1 Box 62, Carmel, CA 93923 (831) 624-4909, open 9-5 winter, 9-7 summer, $7.00 state parks parking fee (or $75 yearly) Appropriate for all ages, though hiking best suited for those with the maturity to stay on the trails |
Note: this article first appeared in Monterey County Family Magazine Used with author's permission.
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