Point Lobos State Reserve
If you need a little rejuvenation of the body, mind and soul, just head out to Point Lobos State Reserve on the Monterey Peninsula. You'll find the entrance to the park just 3 miles south of Carmel California on Highway 1. It's a 1200 acre state reserve, of which at least half is underwater. There are seven miles of trails in all to choose from, many interconnecting with each other. A map is available at the entrance. Point Lobos is a series of extremely scenic coves and rocky outcroppings. Trails go through the pine and cypress trees and around the coastline. It is truly breathtaking almost everywhere you look. On a sunny day, the colors of the water are positively striking, especially at China Cove. If you're lucky, you may spot some of the abundant wildlife, including many species of birds, or sea otters or harbor seals. Much of the reserve is actually underwater. To scuba dive you need to get advance reservations. Docent led guided tours are available. There is also a small museum on the grounds which covers the commercial whaling industry in Monterey. Parking is ten dollars and includes a map. Once inside, there are several little parking lots to choose from, each with different trails nearby to explore. Alternatively, you can save the ten bucks by parking out on the highway and walking in. Check the signs though, in case they have changed since this writing. There is also a bus stop across the street, not far from the entrance. The Point Lobos State Reserve is open daily from 8:00 until 30 minutes before sunset. For more info, call 831-624-4909 or go to
www.pointlobos.org.
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