Alright, letâs talk about Point Lobos State Natural Reserveâaka one of Californiaâs most jaw-droppingly beautiful places that somehow still feels like a secret (even though it absolutely shouldnât be). Tucked along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this spot is straight-up dreamy. Like, every time you look up, you feel like youâre staring into a postcard. Whether you're into hiking, marine life, photography, or just breathing in that crisp ocean air, Point Lobos is the kind of place that makes you feel more alive. Seriouslyâthis reserve is often called âthe crown jewel of the State Park System,â and it lives up to that hype every single time.
đżWhy Youâll Fall in Love with Point Lobos:
â Epic coastal hiking trails that hug the cliffs and take you through forests
â Whale watching, sea otters, harbor seals, and sea lions all in one place
â Hidden coves, tide pools, and crystal-clear waters for beachcombing vibes
â Photographerâs paradiseâsunsets here are unreal
â Peaceful vibesâwild, untouched, and not overrun with tourists (if you time it right)
đ¸ Must-Hit Trails: Start with the Cypress Grove Trailâitâs a short loop (about 0.8 miles), but WOW. Youâll walk through Monterey cypress trees that look like they belong in a fantasy novel, and the ocean views are next-level. Then hit the Bird Island Trail, where youâll get that famous view of China Cove, with its glowing turquoise water and adorable seals napping on the sand. For the more adventurous, the South Shore Trail has tide pools thatâll blow your mind with colorful sea life.
đMarine Life Youâll Probably Spot (So Keep That Camera Ready):
đ Gray whales (especially between December and April)
𦦠Sea otters doing somersaults and cracking clams on their bellies
đŹ Dolphins riding the waves just offshore
đŚ Harbor seals sunbathing on the rocks like they own the place
đ Garibaldi, crabs, and starfish in tide pools near Weston Beach
đ˛Nearby Magic to Explore: Just five minutes up the road is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a cozy town thatâs straight out of a fairytale. Think cobblestone streets, quirky art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and boutiques galore. Hungry? Grab a bite at La Bicyclette or sip espresso at Carmel Coffee House. Wanna keep chasing ocean views? Hop on Highway 1 and head south into Big Surâevery turn is a screensaver, from Bixby Bridge to McWay Falls.
đHeads-Up: Parking at Point Lobos fills up FASTâlike, early-morning-fast. Youâll either want to arrive before 9AM or be ready to park along Highway 1 and hike in (totally worth it, btw). The entry feeâs around $10 per vehicle, but every cent supports the parkâs preservation, and trust me, youâll be glad you paid.
If you're planning to explore Point Lobos, Big Sur, and all the gorgeous coastal gems nearby, you'll want a ride thatâs comfy, reliable, and ready for winding cliffside roads. Thatâs where Infinite Car Rentals comes in clutch. Theyâve got the perfect set of wheels for your California adventureâwhether youâre flying solo or rolling deep with friends and snacks. Plus, no need to stress about weird rental counter vibes or sketchy service. Infiniteâs easy, fast, and gets you road-ready in no time.
Ready to roll the windows down and let the ocean breeze hit your face? Book your ride now by visiting Infinite Car Rentals or give Infinite Car Rentals a call at +1 747 677 0322. Your next unforgettable road trip starts here.
Your car will be delivered directly to your doorstep at the most convenient time for you.
As a special thank-you, we will give a white glove concierge service, ensuring smooth and effortless check-in at your hotel residence and personalized serviceâall in one.