Point Lobos

Just south of Carmel-by-the-sea starts the North end of Big Sur, California’s  90 mile stretch of magnificent coastline along Highway 1. We were heading down the coast going South, Point Lobos was our first stop.

Photo: Chasing Beauty Photography

The fog rolling in over the cliffs and mountain side was like no other place I’ve ever visited. At first I thought maybe it was going to suck eating up our views but it ended up being my favorite trip.

Photo: Chasing Beauty Photography

Point Lobos contains many hiking trails, many next to the ocean. It is the site of a historic marine reserve. It is also the home to a museum on whaling, which includes a historic building once used by area fishermen. The longstanding wildlife protection and scenic seascape have led to Point Lobos’ reputation as an unparalleled local recreational/scuba diving destination.

Photo: Chasing Beauty Photography

Called the”greatest meeting of land and water in the world”  by landscape artist Francis McComas

Photo: Chasing Beauty Photography

Jaw-dropping natural beauty from every angle but don’t forget to look for a whale or two passing by.

Photo: Chasing Beauty Photography

You just can’t take pictures at Point Lobos without thinking of Edward Weston, Ansel Adams, and the many other photographers who have worked here.

Some of Edward Weston’s most famous photographs were taken of the trees and rocks at Point Lobos, California, near where he lived for many years.

Photo: Chasing Beauty Photography

Point Lobos has well-maintained trails, but it’s not really a hiking destination. (That’s a matter of opinion)  Better for me to just find a place to park, find a trail, walk toward the sound of the ocean and enjoy the scenery. Oh… do NOT forget your camera!

Photo: Chasing Beauty Photography

“Anything that excites me for any reason, I will photograph; not searching for unusual subject matter, but making the commonplace unusual. ” ~Edward Weston

“A great photograph is a full expression of what one feels about what is being photographed in the deepest sense, and is, thereby, a true expression of what one feels about life in its entirety.” ~ Ansel Adams

Photo: Chasing Beauty Photography

Half of the reserve is all you see unless you’re a diver and visit the underwater world just offshore. This is one of the richest marine habitats in California. Its animals and plants are fully protected by state law from any disturbance.

Photo: Chasing Beauty Photography

The best way for California residents to explore the coast is the

CALIFORNIA EXPLORER VEHICLE DAY USE
ANNUAL PASS – $195.00

but of course there are day use passes.

*Dogs are not allowed in the Reserve, even if they are in a vehicle.