Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
62 Highway 1, Carmel
(831) 624-4909, www.pointlobos.org
Criss-crossed with miles of trails, Point Lobos’ landscape ranges from coastal scrub, cypress and Monterey pine forests to the famously jagged coastline that landscape artist Francis McComas described as “the greatest meeting of land and water in the world.” Complementing the natural beauty is abundant wildlife – California sea otters, harbor seals and winter-migrating gray whales are just a few of the animals that frequent the waters surrounding the reserve. There aren’t many large or sustained elevation changes, making it a perfect trip for the layperson or the family with small children. There are stroller-friendly areas, but to get to the really cool spots, you’ll going to want to bring a child carrier. Don’t forget the binoculars.