Point Lobos Trail: What you’ll need to find breathtaking ocean views.



Located in Carmel-By-The-Sea in Monterey County, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is home to one of the most diverse and dense marine habitats California has to offer. The reserve sticks out of the Southern end of Carmel bay, and offers views of Pebble Beach and Monterey to the North. The trails offered in Point Lobos are of an intermediate to beginner level, but that is no excuse to show up to the hike ill prepared. This article will be your guide to showing up prepared and ready to enjoy one of the gems of the California State Parks System.

The first thing needed to ensure a comfortable hike is appropriate footwear, something comfortable and supportive for a varying terrain, pictured here is the Hoka Clifton 9. Given that this is a coastal trail, strong winds should be expected. Be sure to have a light jacket that can cut through those strong gusts, a popular choice is the Patagonia Down Sweater due to its ability to be packed up into a small pillow when not being worn.

In many of the scenic areas, food and drinks are prohibited, so small snacks like protein bars, granola, or fruits are key to staying energized. Just be sure to dispose of any trash properly. Sunglasses are also essential to staying comfortable, as the sunlight on the coast can be very intense. Lastly, should your hike take you into the night, a small flashlight could be a lifesaver in navigating your way back to the start.

While on the trail, there are multiple turnouts and nooks that open up to beautiful ocean views. A few staircases take you straight down to secluded pebble beaches with aquamarine water out of a movie. However, it is important to note that at certain times of the year, these beaches will be closed to the public, and “no talk zones” will be enforced. This is because native marine life such as sea lions will use the beaches to give birth and nurse their young.

For those who enjoy a cityscape in favor of wildlife, Carmel offers a cozy beach town with fantastic dining and quality local boutiques. 

The landscaping and architecture is truly captivating and makes it feel like much more of a getaway than the two hour drive may entail.