This Is the 'Crown Jewel' of California's State Parks-and It Has Crystal-blue Water, Whales, and Stunning Coastal Views

"On the northern end of California's Central Coast, the region's rolling hills and sunny beaches give way to misty bays and cypress groves, pounding turquoise surf and steep, plunging cliffs. Harbor seals and otters bob in the waves, and, a little further offshore, whale spouts rise above the water. This type of scenery is usually synonymous with Big Sur, but to fully experience the region's splendor, you'll have to drive just a little further north on Highway 1."

"Often called the "crown jewel of the California state park system," the gorgeous land that Point Lobos encompasses has been preserved in some form since the turn of the 20th century, when Alexander MacMillan Allan purchased plots on the point with conservation in mind. The Allan family sold hundreds of acres to the state in 1933, and the park continues to draw countless roadtrippers, international visitors, and even locals to explore its shores."

""Point Lobos, for nearly 100 years, has been protected," says Dan Shaw, Monterey District superintendent. "It's one of the most amazing natural wonders in the world, and that's because for all these years, our visitors have taken great care of the place. Our volunteers from the Point Lobos Foundation have been instrumental in being present to care for Point Lobos.""

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve lies a short drive north on Highway 1 and features misty bays, cypress groves, pounding turquoise surf, steep plunging cliffs, and abundant marine life including harbor seals, otters, and whales. Conservation-minded private purchases around the turn of the 20th century protected the headland, and hundreds of acres were sold to the state in 1933. The reserve now encompasses roughly five-and-a-half square miles, about 500 acres on land plus an extensive marine preserve. Volunteer organizations contribute to ongoing stewardship. Trails are well maintained and the reserve offers scenic and underwater attractions year-round, though extreme winds can force temporary closures.

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