Point Sur State Historic Park(Point Sur Beach)

Nestled in Monterey, the captivating Point Sur State Historic Park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, boasts an expansive beach, forming part of the larger Point Sur State Historic Park and Lighthouse. Also recognized as Point Sur Beach, this historic landmark offers insightful guided walking tours of the 1889 Point Sur Lightstation. Located just miles south of Carmel and roughly 130 miles south of San Francisco, the light station provides a unique opportunity to explore a crucial part of California's maritime history. The lighthouse tour, lasting three hours, involves a brief yet steep trail ascent from a paved road to a prominent volcanic rock dome, providing panoramic views of the beach. Please note that these guided tours are mandatory, and a nominal fee applies. Additionally, the park offers moonlight tours, which provide a spectacular experience under the night sky.

Basic amenities such as restroom facilities are available for the convenience of visitors.

Engage in various activities at Point Sur State Historic Park, such as invigorating hikes and picturesque photography sessions amidst the rugged volcanic rock formations. To access the park, drive to Point Sur Naval Facility on Cabrillo Highway and head north towards the lighthouse road gate. The guided tours provide an immersive experience, making it a perfect spot for those interested in history and natural beauty.

There are no dedicated parking areas for visitors' vehicles, but street parking is available near the entrance.

State parks often have visitor centers providing information, exhibits, and educational resources about the park's history, geology, and wildlife. This could be a good starting point for your visit.

For those seeking attractions near Point Sur State Historic Park, a 45-minute drive leads to the intriguing Bigfoot Discovery Museum, dedicated to the American folklore creature, Bigfoot. Additionally, explore the vast 1,006-acre Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, also on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring the ancient Colonial Tree, the majestic Pfeiffer Falls, and enchanting redwood groves. The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a lively tourist spot with souvenir shops, art galleries, and various tours, including whale watching and fishing trips. The nearby Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, another point of interest on the National Register of Historic Places, hosts thousands of monarch butterflies from late October to February.

By visiting Point Sur Lightstation and its surrounding attractions, you can enjoy a variety of activities and experiences, from lighthouse tours and moonlight tours to exploring the diverse natural and cultural heritage of the area.

Should hunger strike, numerous restaurants within a 15-minute drive await. Little Napoli, an Italian eatery, offers a diverse menu of pizza, pasta, Pesce, pane, carne, and rice dishes. Asian cuisine enthusiasts can relish sushi, noodles, unagi, soba, udon, and onigiri at Tommy’s Wok. Yafa, another notable option, specializes in Mediterranean fare, including Fettuccine Alfredo, pasta, chicken, beef dishes, and vegan selections.

For accommodation, drive 30 minutes to find a suitable hotel. The luxurious 5-Star pet-friendly Stonepine Estate, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, boasts a range of amenities, including a pool, spa, restaurant, fitness center, tennis courts, whirlpool tubs, a 4-hole golf course, and various tours. CarmelValley Ranch, a 4-Star pet-friendly hotel, sprawled across 500 acres, offers a spa, gym, restaurant, grill house, café, golf course, two pools, and nine tennis courts. The budget-friendly 2-Star Blue Sky Lodge, also pet-friendly, provides a pleasant stay with amenities like a library and ping pong table amidst the historic charm of the region.