Point Lobos State Reserve–A Photographer’s Paradise

Point Lobos State Natural Preserve in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, has always been one of my favorite places. And since I became a photographer, I love it even more.

I recently spent a day hiking nearly every one of the trails between Gibson Beach and Whaler’s Cove. As both a nature lover and a photographer, I was in paradise. It’s been a number of years since I was able to spend time there, and it has lost none of its charm over time. I felt like a kid in a candy store with beautiful views, wildlife and wildflowers at every turn.

If you are planning a visit to central California, this is a must-stop destination. You can cover pretty much the entire reserve in one day. Bring a picnic, a water bottle, and your sunscreen, and you can’t go wrong. The hiking is really more strolling. The paths are not steep or difficult, and there are many areas where you can freely roam across the rocks or along the beaches. Additionally, the Reserve extends out into the ocean with opportunities for certified scuba divers to explore the kelp forests, and for limited kayaking.

Our visit to Point Lobos was part of our summer adventure up the Pacific Coast Highway.

Here are a few of my favorite images from the day. You can purchase many of them by simply clicking on the image, and it will take you to my photography gallery , with these and other of my favorite photographs.