Hike the Trails at Point Lobos State Reserve
Pacific Marine Life and California's Monterey Coastline Scenery
Sep 21, 2009
The clear Pacific waters of Monterey Bay, California provide an ideal environment for one of the largest protected marine reserves in the world. Viewing the coves and rocky shoreline that characterize Monterey Bay becomes a pleasurable day adventure by taking one of the easy to moderate hikes located within the Point Lobos Reserve. Several trails meander above the ocean bluffs and travel through groves of cedars, across wildflower covered hills and down to pristine sandy beaches. Many varieties of marine life including sea lions, sea otters and whales can be spotted from the shore and the reserve is a favorite nesting place for gulls, pelicans, cormorants and other sea birds.
Hiking Trails at Point Lobos State Reserve
Cypress Grove Trail: The unique Monterey Cypress trees twist and turn into windblown shapes and line the shore along this trail that meanders through scrub brush and wooded areas. The trail leads to openings where spectacular views of the coastline appear.
Sea Lion Point Trail: Hearing and watching sea lions is easy from the top of the bluff where this trail becomes a favorite for day hikers. The views of the protected coves below can be enjoyed by a few strategically placed benches.
Bird Island Trail: For hikers who want to walk on the beach, this trail provides access to the sand at China Cove and Gibson Beach. This is the place to watch for nesting sea birds during the warmer months.
Several other trails connect throughout the area allowing hikers to enjoy a full day of exploration at the reserve. Additional information and trail maps at www.pt-lobos.parks.state.ca.us include details about hiking in the reserve.
Wildlife Viewing from the Shore
Sea lions ignore the hikers on the trails above and frolic in the cool clear waters of the bay. During the spring months, young pups play beside their parents and rest themselves on the sandy beaches near the rocks. Dozens of sea lions make their home in the harbor and continue to thrive in the protected waters.
Another native mammal to observe is the playful sea otter that can be spotted among the kelp beds. The female otters are particularly intriguing as they swim with young pups on their stomachs.
Numerous ground squirrels live in the reserve and mule deer can often be seen on cool days or during the morning or late afternoon hours. All of the animals and plant life in the reserve have been granted protection status.
Scuba Diving Access Points at Point Lobos State Reserve
Two stunning coves open to scuba divers offer a chance to experience the underwater beauty of the Monterey Peninsula. At Whaler’s Cove, a flat launching area provides convenient access and a place to setup gear and park. Several smaller coves may be explored from this location.
Blue Fish Cove is popular with divers because of the clear waters than continually pass through the cove. The Inner Blue Fish Cove area provides a less challenging shallow water region protected from currents and rougher seas.
Scuba diving at the Point Lobos State Reserve requires proof of certification that must be displayed when entering the park. Detailed information about conditions, group diving and rules and regulations at www.pt-lobos.parks.state.ca.us/Scuba.htm give scuba divers a heads up before planning an excursion.
Other Places of Interest in Point Lobos State Reserve
The whaling industry thrived in Monterey during the mid-1800s and evidence of the whaler’s lifestyle still remains. A whaler’s cabin, one of the oldest buildings on the Peninsula, houses a cultural history museum. Next door, the Whaling Station Museum contains artifacts, tools and information about the early whaling days.
Helpful Tips about Visiting Point Lobos State Reserve
The reserve opens daily at 9:0 a.m. and closes in the summer at 7:00 and at 5:00 p.m. during other seasons. The admission fee of $9.00 includes a parking pass. Picnic tables and restrooms are located at Whaler’s Cove and a short distance from the entrance to the reserve.
 |
 |
