California has 278 state parks and these cover over 280 miles of coastline. Point Lobos State Reserve is within the state park system but is not a park, but a reserve, which has a higher level of protection than parks. Once you visit, you will see why this is so valuable. 

I have used a variety of lenses at this park but my most popular choices are my 16-35 mm wide angle for landscapes and my 180 mm macro lens for wildlife and details. I typically always have a polarizer on my lens and use a reflector to bounce light onto subjects or to shade tide pools when sunny. I also shoot with a tripod about 98% of the time. 

Hover over any photo for more detailed information. 

What is Point Lobos State Natural Reserve?

Point Lobos has diverse plant and animal life both on land and in water. It is considered one of the crown jewels of the state park system. 

• The entry fee is $10 per car or walk in for free. 
• The park opens at 8:00 am and closes at sunset. 
• There are restrooms, picnic sites, and docents on site to lead walks and provide information.  
• There is cell phone reception in the park, but it can be a little spotty. 
• There are 7 miles of hiking trails in the park but all major points can be accessed by car as well. Trail map
• The reserve has 150 parking spots and will hold entry if lots are full.

Great EgretWhaler's Cove	Great Blue Heron
Black OystercatcherTide pools at Weston Beach

When is a good time to visit?

Any time of year is excellent but summer will bring cool and foggy mornings. Autumn and Winter produce beautiful sunsets but also brings winter storms and rain. Plan to dress in layers any time of year to handle changing temperatures. 

Bat StarTide pools at Weston Beach	Shore crabTide pools at Weston Beach
Black Tail DeerCypress Grove Trail	Harbor SealWhaler's Cove

Where is this park?

Point Lobos is located just south of Carmel. The closest major city is Monterey and is close by if combining this with a Monterey based trip. 

Rock textureRocks between Weston Beach and China Cove	KelpCoal Chute Point
Rock textureSea Lion Trail	ShellsBeach accessed from Granite Point Trail
Sea urchins (long exposure)Tide pools at Weston Beach

Why should I visit?

This park has 7 miles of hiking trails with excellent views of the coast and access to beaches and tide pools. Birds and wildlife can be viewed fairly easily but I recommend a telephoto lens for wildlife photography. There is a protected cove for diving and boat launching (including paddle boards and kayaks). There are docents on site to help answer questions and provide hiking recommendations. They also post the tide heights at the main parking lot. One word of caution: this park is incredibly popular so you may want to plan to walk in if the lots are full. Arrive early if you want to be able to drive in. 

I have photographed in this park many times, mostly in winter, and have found good photography subjects with each visit. I tend to park inside the park and hike from my vehicle to different spots and generally spend 4-6 hours in the park.

Afternoon clouds and incoming tideWeston Beach area

SunsetWeston Beach

Morning lightCypress Cove

SunsetWeston Beach

I hope you enjoyed this post!