Monastery Beach to Point Lobos

California’s Crown Jewel

Monastery Beach is a stunning one-third-mile-long stretch of sand part of Carmel River State Beach. It was named after the Carmelite Monastery and is a popular spot among divers and locals who enjoy taking walks.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, often referred to as "The crown jewel of the California State Park System," attracts visitors from around the world. Landscape Painter Francis McComas called Point Lobos "the greatest meeting of land and water in the world." World-class photographers like Ansel Adams and Edward Weston spent years combing through the woods and along the shores of Point Lobos for the perfect photograph.

Point Lobos is outstanding for hiking, sightseeing, photography, painting, nature study, picnicking, and diving. The offshore area, part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, forms one of the richest underwater habitats in the world and is hugely popular with divers. On land, there are rare plant communities, unique geological formations, and incredible trees, birds, and wildlife.

This breathtaking and unique place is a must-see for anyone who seeks inspiration.