The 'Crown Jewel Of The California State Park System' Boasts Pristine Hikes & Scuba Diving

More than parks alone, the California State Park system (also known as the California Department of Parks and Recreation) includes 280 sights ranging from beaches and lakes to museums, historic monuments, and ghost towns. Among these curiosities, a few gems stand out from the crowd. Morro Bay State Park (Halfway between Santa Barbara and Monterey) shines as a stellar camping area, Bodie State Historic Park attracts visitors as one of the most chilling abandoned places in America, and Crystal Cove enjoys a reputation as California's best state beach. However, only one destination has what it takes to be dubbed the crown jewel of the California State Park system. That destination is Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.

Located within the fairytale-esque town of Carmel-By-The-Sea, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve earns its title by showcasing a stunning and diverse array of natural wonders. In one day here, sightseers can go from hiking past the twisted branches of Monterey cypress trees and strolling through serene, grassy meadows to gazing out over the ocean as waves crash at the foot of dramatic, craggy headlands. For more adventure, travelers can investigate the watery depths of Point Lobos on snorkeling or diving excursions. Those brave enough to take the plunge can look forward to the magical experience of swimming past sea otters and through a 70-foot high forest of kelp.

Open year-round but only for day use between the hours of 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. every day, this widely adored reserve sees its biggest crowds in the summer. Luckily for solitude-loving visitors, the region's mild climate provides plenty of chances for off-season outings. Even in the coldest months, temperatures typically stay over 10 degrees above freezing, making a winter diving trip feasible, if frigid.

If you only have one day to explore beautiful Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, prioritize visiting these attractions. Starting from the central parking area near the reserve's Cypress Information Center, follow the Cypress Grove Trail toward a breathtaking overlook where trees line the granite headlands framing Cypress Cove. From there, double back to the parking lot and take the Sea Lion Point Trail toward its eponymous scenic area. Scan the waters and rocks below, and you might just spot a seal or sea otter.

Afterward, you can head east to see Whaler's Cove, scenic viewpoints along Point Lobos Trail, and the historic 1850s-era Whalers Cabin. Meanwhile, to the south, the tide pools of Weston Beach await. Here, hikers can let South Shore Trail lead them along the coast of Carmel Highlands Cove and to a cozy spot called Hidden Beach. This trail extends further, but those short on time can opt to forgo hiking altogether and drive from Weston Beach down to China Cove.

A must-see spot during any Point Lobos trip, China Cove wows with ivory sands and emerald waters. Access this area by parking at the Bird Island Trail lot and following a route by the same name for less than 600 feet to China Cove. From there, you can keep hiking to reach Pelican Point, where black-crowned night-herons, Western gulls, and other critters nestle on the rocks. Travelers can sometimes cap off their Point Lobos State Natural Reserve adventure with a stop at Gibson Beach. Unfortunately, this attraction faces damage risks from the region's high surf and may be closed during your visit. For timely updates on any closures, make sure to check the reserve's official website.

Active sightseers who have more than a day to spend perusing this California jewel can't go wrong with some hiking. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve's trails sprawl across five main regions and include 16 different routes. While these individual treks offer curated experiences, hikers seeking an overview of the reserve can opt to voyage along the unofficial Point Lobos Loop, a 7.4-mile, moderately challenging path connecting several official trails into one massive hike.

If you'd prefer a shorter, more accessible nature walk, ignore the loop in favor of scenic, easy-to-navigate spots like Carmelo Meadow Trail, Granite Point Trail, and Bird Island Trail. When you're ready to up the intensity, head over to North Shore Trail, where tricky terrain and sections of stairs keep you on your toes as you walk through a peaceful pine forest.

When you've had your fill of adventures on land, keep the fun going with some snorkeling and free or scuba diving. These activities all require reservations, and divers must bring some form of certification from a recognized diving institution. Once you've got the logistical side of your underwater outing taken care of, you can look forward to exploring the depths of either Whaler's or Bluefish Cove. With tranquil waters that welcome novices and pros alike, Whaler's Cove gives you the chance to scope out urchins, sea stars, and a huge kelp forest. Meanwhile, Bluefish Cove caters more to divers and features incredible views of vibrant anemones and subaquatic canyons.