When visiting Monterey County, serene and picture-perfect protected natural areas surround you at all times. In honor of the first Annual California State Parks Week, we're highlighting five can't-miss state beaches and parks to add to your itinerary.
Monterey State Beach
Heading northeast from the Portola Hotel & Spa along the Monterey Rec Trail, you'll soon find yourself at Monterey State Beach. This sandy beach is the quintessential spot for a perfect beach day. Plus, it has views of the Monterey peninsula and bay that can't be beat.
Monterey State Beach at Sunset
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Open to visitors for a modest fee (currently $10 per vehicle, and free if you walk in) Point Lobos is crisscrossed by winding boardwalk and graveled trails with sweeping views of the rugged coastline and rocky islands. It gets its name from the Spanish word for "wolf", as early explorers thought the plentiful sea lion colonies sounded like barking wolves.
A scenic trail at Point Lobos
Asilomar State Beach
At the tip of the Monterey peninsula, at the border of land and sea, is this rugged coastline of rock formations, tidal pools (look but don't touch), burrowing beach squirrels, surging wave water, and once-in-a-lifetime sunsets. Perfect for a drive, walk, bike ride, or picnic, Asilomar State Beach is popular with locals and travelers alike.
Asilomar State Beach scenic trails
Garrapata State Park
Along the high cliffs of Big Sur, Garrapata State Park is made up of a series of stunning trails that overlook the swirling, blue Pacific Ocean. Thick with coastal brush, vegetation drapes over the edges, and frames the views with lush green hues. Keep an eye out for the sea lions, sea otters, and seals who frequent the waters down far below.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Named after a renowned pioneer woman of local history, this park has stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Venture to its famous vista with an 80-foot waterfall, plunging down to a sandy, curved beach. Afterwards, enjoy the 300-foot redwood trees that are thousands of years old.
Explore our State Beaches and Parks
These are just a sampling of the many state parks and beaches that make up Monterey County. Whichever you find yourself visiting during your stay, you're bound to witness Monterey's unique beauty. The Portola Hotel & Spa is not far from these amazing sights, so book your stay by visiting us online or calling us at (888)-222-5851.
Featured image: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve