Get out and enjoy the natural beauty of the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Often called the “Crown Jewel of the California State Park System," Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy unmatched natural beauty, rare Monterey Cypress trees, native plants, and unique rock formations. Outdoor adventurists will enjoy hiking, nature study, picnicking, and scuba diving. Point Lobos was once home to the Ohlone tribe of Native Americans and an enclave of Portuguese whalers who established a whaling station in 1861. Chinese immigrants also settled in the area to harvest abalone, squid and sea urchins, which created a profitable fishing industry. Coal mining and granite quarrying became productive in the late 1800s, however in 1890, coal mining proved unprofitable and the land was sold for residential homes. In 1898 Alexander Allan purchased the 640-acre site, which was eventually sold to the State of California for use as a public nature preserve. Today, Point Lobos State Preserve spans 400 acres and 750 protected underwater acres in the Monterey Bay. Point Lobos is open daily, 8am to half an hour after sunset. www.pointlobos.org

Point Lobos Wildlife & Activities

Hear the calls of local sea lions, search for native brush rabbits and pocket gophers, catch glimpses of deer, coyote, foxes, and other wildlife. Point Lobos State Preserve is also home to a diverse array of native and migratory birds, making it an ideal location for bird watchers and nature photographers. Hiking enthusiasts can spend the day trekking through the pristine trails located throughout the preserve, while divers can explore the vibrant underwater world of the Monterey Bay.

Movies and Point Lobos

Hollywood is in love with Point Lobos exemplified by the more than 45 movies that have been filmed in the area. The first film to be produced at Point Lobos was “Valley of the Moon” in 1914. Since then, Hollywood has been coming back time and again to film in this unique location. Movies like “Daddy Long Legs,” “Treasure Island,” “Rebecca,” and “The Graduate” all have ties to Point Lobos and the surrounding community.