Point Lobos State Natural Reserve - Headland Cove offers a variety of activities including sunbathing, beachcombing, wildlife watching, and hiking. Recreational aquatic activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving are generally restricted to protect the sensitive marine life. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and its waters are home to an array of marine mammals and birds, including harbor seals, sea lions, otters, dolphins, and migratory gray whales seen between December and April. The shoreline around the beach is a haven for birdwatchers, with species like oystercatchers, gulls, cormorants, ospreys, and herons frequently sighted.
Referred to as "the crown jewel" of California’s state park system, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve’s landscape is a masterpiece of natural beauty. It features rare Monterey cypress forests, coastal scrub, rocky headlands, and tidepools. The Point Lobos State Marine Reserve, part of the larger sanctuary, is a protected area where the vibrant underwater ecosystems can be explored by experienced divers. Permits for scuba diving can be obtained through the Point Lobos State Marine reserve’s website.
Additionally, the reserve's Whalers Cabin, built by Chinese immigrants in the 19th century, is a notable historic site listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places. This cabin now serves as a museum with exhibits on the rich cultural history of Point Lobos. The reserve's beauty has inspired many artists and photographers and has been a location for several films, including the 1989 movie "Turner and Hooch" and the 1967 classic "The Graduate."
The Point Lobos Foundation organizes guided tours to explore the reserve's diverse ecosystems. If you are interested in these tours, further information can be found on the Point Lobos Foundation Website. For younger visitors, the Point Lobos Summer Adventure Program offers an engaging mix of educational and recreational activities, including hiking and wildlife watching for kids aged 8-12.
