Point Lobos State Reserve

Nestled south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this state reserve boasts some of the most stunning coastal views in California.

Some of the birds you can see at the reserve include pelicans, herons, and cormorants.

One of my favorite spots for birdwatching at Point Lobos is the Bird Island Trail. This easy trail takes you along the coastline to a small island that is home to a colony of nesting pelicans. Watching these birds take off and land on the island is truly a sight to behold. 

You can see everything from sea lions and harbor seals to sea otters and gray whales (during migration season).

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the area became a hub for the whaling industry. Whalers would anchor their ships in the protected coves and bays along the coast, and set out to hunt for whales. Point Lobos was one of the major whaling centers in California, and the industry remained active until the early 1900s.

In the 1930s, the state of California acquired the land and established Point Lobos State Reserve. The park has since become a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including sea lions, harbor seals, otters, and numerous species of birds.