6.5 Miles | 15 Minutes Drive
Hotel Near Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve sits on the coast just south of Carmel, about 15 minutes from Stargazer Hotel. It is often called the crown jewel of California's state parks, with easy trails past granite coves, turquoise water, cypress groves, and tide pools.
Sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and seabirds are often visible close to shore, and in the right season you may spot migrating whales offshore. Because it is a reserve, protecting wildlife comes first: stay on marked trails and follow posted rules.
Tips
- Arrive early. Parking inside the reserve is limited and fills quickly, especially on weekends.
- Dogs are not allowed in the reserve.
- Bring binoculars and a layer. The coves are often cool and breezy even on sunny days.
Photo: King of Hearts, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.