Paddling Point Lobos, California

Written by Jess Davies / June 2021

Point Lobos, California is an incredible ocean sanctuary located just south of Carmel and the famous Pebble Beach.

Situated in a popular nature reserve, the area of Point Lobos can be easily enjoyed by foot or car all year round but exploring it’s beauty by SUP is a unique adventure that only a few get to experience.

Highlights

If you fancy getting away from the coastline it is worth heading out to sea and paddle around the point. The water can get quite choppy so make sure you are confident paddler. It is important to study the tides, swells and wind to make a safe outing here – this is not an area to go blindly and without planning.

The real reward though is China Cove. Here you can paddle through rocks and look down at the clear blue water and soak up the sea life around you. Paddling just south of the main car park you can admire the coastal mansion houses that line the cliffs.

Route directions

I captured our paddle on Garmin - 8.22 miles 4 hours 26 minutes with lots of stops along the way.Start at Monastery Beach and paddle around to Whalers Cove, then into Bluefish Cove to visit the Seals.From here paddle on to Big Dome Cove and Cypress Cove. If you are an experienced paddler, take the long paddle out around the point of Pinnacle cove, past Headland Cove and over to Sea Lion Cove and Sand Hill Cove. Paddle over to Hidden Beach and China Cove where you get to paddle through archways with crystal clear water and kelp. Return via the same route with a couple rests and some lunch.

Local knowledge

Sat nav
36.5145677,-121.9449346
Nearest parking

Monastery Beach or Whalers Cove in Point Lobos
Permits: If you enter from Monastery Beach there is no fee or permit. If you enter via Whalers Cove, there is a $10 fee per SUP. The Reserve extends off the coast to include the underwater world of the Point Lobos State Marine Reserve which can only be explored if Paddling or Diving.
Launch point

Monastery Beach or Whalers Cove in Point Lobos
Places to stay

Post Ranch Inn or Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Places to eat and drink

La Balena

Things to know

Take into account the seasons and conditions when paddling here. We explored at the end of September with low tides and swells but the wind picked up making it harder going on the return legThis is one of the richest marine habitats in California. Its animals and plants are fully protected by state law from any disturbance, and you are prohibited to get within 50ft of the marine mammals. It is important to study the tides, swells and wind before paddling here. Plan ahead.