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Beyond Monterey & Carmel

Guided 2-Hour Point Lobos Nature Walk

Recommended by 100% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Monterey & Carmel, USA
Popular pick
Booked 5+ times last week!
  • 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Why travelers loved this

5.0
·
· Laura_C ·
Aug 2026
The views were breathtaking. Monica was extremely knowledgeable on the area and history of Point Lobos and was very relaxed. We never felt rushed. We took all the photos we wanted and she offered to take many herself of my husband and I. We saw Sea Otters and a museum half way through our tour. Definitely recommend. 10 out of 10.
· NANCY_M ·
Aug 2026
This is an absolute must do on a trip to Carmel! Monica was the best guide ever and we had a wonderful time. The views were amazing and she brought her telescope for us to see otters and sea lions. Walking in the nature reserve was lovely and we learned a lot about the area. This was definitely a highlight of our trip!

Overview

If you’re looking to explore Point Lobos but find yourself short on time, this Point Lobos Nature Hike from Carmel-by-the-Sea fits in big highlights in just a little amount of time. A guide knows the best ways around the wooded and cliff-filled areas so you can see more of its beauty. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as otters, seals, deer, and sealions while you hike along with your small group.
  • Hike around Point Lobos with a guide who knows the best areas to spot wildlife
  • Learn about the area’s history as you walk by woodlands, cliffs, and coves
  • Perfect for travelers short on time—explore Point Lobos in just a few hours
  • A small-group experience limited to just 14 makes for a special tour

What's Included

  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Guided tour park admission
  • Free parking in gated lot

    Meeting and Pickup

    Meeting point

    • 66 CA-1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, USA

      Free, safe parking at private residence 1/4 mile SOUTH of Point Lobos entrance. Driveway is on the EAST side of Highway 1, across from the green mailboxes (look for the "Point Lobos Walks" sign on the east side). After passing the driveway gate, take the first left turn to the parking area.

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    Start time
    .10:00 am

    What To Expect

    1

    Point Lobos

    2

    Whalers cabin museum

    Additional Info

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Service animals allowed
    • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
    • Need to be able to climb stairs, stand and walk for the duration of the tour
    • Tour proceeds at a leisurely pace. Distance ca. 2.5 miles
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

    Traveler Photos

    Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

    Featured review

    Theresa_R
    We loved our tour. It was so beautiful. Monica was so wonderful, so knowledgeable about the area. She knew all about the history. It was truly an awesome experience. Would recommend this trip.

    Reviews

    5.0
    based on 84 reviews
    Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
    Sort by: Most insightful

    Wonderful views

    Laura_C, Aug 2026
    The views were breathtaking. Monica was extremely knowledgeable on the area and history of Point Lobos and was very relaxed. We never felt rushed. We took all the photos we wanted and she offered to take many herself of my husband and I. We saw Sea Otters and a museum half way through our tour. Definitely recommend. 10 out of 10.

    Response from Host, Aug 2026

    It felt like showing my favorite place to old friends! Thank you for taking time out of the busy car week to see our magic place. Bon voyage.

    A Remarkable Nature Tour!

    NANCY_M, Aug 2026
    This is an absolute must do on a trip to Carmel! Monica was the best guide ever and we had a wonderful time. The views were amazing and she brought her telescope for us to see otters and sea lions. Walking in the nature reserve was lovely and we learned a lot about the area. This was definitely a highlight of our trip!

    Response from Host, Aug 2026

    It was fun to "count the whiskers" on the sealions and see the otters up close! Thank you so much for letting me know you had a wonderful time!

    Don’t hesitate to book!

    Jeremy_H, Aug 2026
    My wife and I really enjoyed our guided hike through the magical Point Lobos with Monica. Not only did she guide us through some incredible scenery, we also got to learn how this land has been saved for all of us to enjoy. Thank you, Monica, for giving us insight into the rich history of Point Lobos.

    Response from Host, Aug 2026

    I am so glad you enjoyed the history of this "magic" land as well as all the wonderful creatures and great scenery! It gives us all a new meaning and appreciation. It was fun meeting you all!

    walk at point lobos

    photonsb, Jul 2026
    A fantastic way to visit point lobos. It was my first time but i would go back with Monica anytime. She is knowledgable, kind and fun.

    Response from Host, Jul 2026

    I love it that you had fun! We learn best when it is fun and Point Lobos does not just have fabulous scenery and great wildlife, it also has inspiring stories! So glad you joined us.

    Great experience in a gorgeous place! Wear long pants!

    Alison_K, Jul 2026
    Monica is a fantastic, knowledgeable guide who has lived in the area for over 50 years. We were blessed to have beautiful weather and the hike was gorgeous! It was a hike, not a walk, meaning that I would say participants should be able to do moderate exercise. Also: wear long pants! Poison oak was everywhere!

    Response from Host, Jul 2026

    Yes, long pants are a good idea. We make a habit to "stay away from the green stuff"! Not a problem if you are observant. Depending on the group we opt for a more energetic walk. We discuss the options at the outset. I am so glad you had a good time, and yes, it was a gorgeous day!!! Thanks again for joining us.

    This tour was fantastic....

    Luke_H, Mar 2026
    This tour was fantastic. Monica was an absolute delight, and I highly recommend this experience of Point Lobos.

    Response from Host, Mar 2026

    I was great to have you two on tour and Nicole's sharp eyes and expertise were a wonderful addition!

    Breathtaking

    Salina_T, Mar 2026
    Monica our tour guide was delightful! She had an abundance of knowledge about Point Lobos and the surrounding area. She allowed time to catch up, slow down and take plenty of pictures throughout this amazing hike.

    Response from Host, Mar 2026

    What a gorgeous day you had for your birthday hike! I am so glad you had fun, it felt like taking family on a walk.

    Awesome

    Theresa_R, Dec 2025
    We loved our tour. It was so beautiful. Monica was so wonderful, so knowledgeable about the area. She knew all about the history. It was truly an awesome experience. Would recommend this trip.

    Response from Host, Dec 2025

    It was great sharing our hike together! I am glad I was able to add to your experience and make it special.

    Beautiful, interesting hike

    John_L, Sep 2025
    It's a relaxing, beautiful hike. Monica tells the history in a relaxed, interesting way with some great personal anecdotes.

    Response from Host, Sep 2025

    It was a pleasure having you on the walk and I am glad you enjoyed the history besides watching for Sea otter and sealions! Thank you for leaving a review!

    My review is for Viator....

    mkuhl1, Jan 2025
    My review is for Viator. They should know how long an easy walking tour is. I called because I wanted to take my elderly mother, she walks fine but is slow. They said the tour was short, but the tour was at least 3 miles, we couldn’t keep up and missed all the information at the stops. I am disappointed that I wasted our time and money on this adventure that I would not have booked if I knew the distance.

    Response from Host, Feb 2025

    Thank you Michelle for bringing this up. I will definitely get Viator to include the distance. Through the reservation you also get the operator's direct phone, or Viator connects the customer to me directly. I am sorry we missed a chance to better serve you.

    Point Lobos super tour

    Ivonne_W, Oct 2024
    It was a great experience, this is worth every penny, she is very knowledgeable and super accommodating. I totally recommend it.

    A morning in nature

    Thomas_D, Sep 2024
    Monica's knowledge and passion are infectious. She placed the Point in context and made it come alive .

    Monica is Amazing!

    Teresa_M, Aug 2024
    There is not much more I can add to the praise of Monica and her outstanding walk through this beautiful part of CA. It was a very foggy day, so the spectacular views we were hoping to have did not happen; however, it was still a great day due to Monica and her fantastic ability to provide interesting background on the history, geology, botany, pretty much everything! If you are in the area, be sure to book her tour!

    Great Experience

    Robert_K, Jul 2024
    Monica is a wonderful guide—knowledgeable, informative and delightful. Plus, it’s a huge bonus to be able to park at her house and walk into the reserve.

    Book it NOW!

    Tom_P, May 2024
    Our guide was the very best, from parking at her home to the 50+ years of experience in the park. She knew everything, this was not a firm 2 hour tour....it was complete when it was complete. This was the highlight of our trip.....she could charge triple the fee and it would still be under priced.

    Point Lobos incredible views, fascinating history!

    Marsha_W, Mar 2024
    The Point Lobos Nature Walk was great! The vistas were amazing, the cypress trees impressive, and our guide, Monica, ideal. Monica is a local enthusiast and an expert, knowledgeable guide. Highly recommended!

    Breathtaking and insightful.

    Maryellen_D, Sep 2023
    Monica was wonderful! She is very friendly and extremely knowledgeable. We would definitely do other tours with her. Great experience!

    Great guide!

    Alex_M, Sep 2023
    This tour was incredibly fun and Monica is a wonderful guide! She is very friendly and welcoming and really engages with each person on her tour. It was a true hike, so there was a little bit of uneven terrain, but it wasn't too bad and mostly very easy to traverse. I highly recommend taking this walk!

    educational family friendy

    Pamela_S, Aug 2023
    Family friendly hike. Efficient and educational way to explore Point Lobos. It was my first time here with my family and it was so nice to be be guided through a large part of the park. Our guide was so incredibly knowledgeable, friendly and kept the pace. I had 3 toddlers (4.5, 4.5 and 3 years old). They did well for their age and we understandably trailed the end. Very enjoyable and so fun! I would love to do this every year! You wont regret it

    Excellent outdoor experience

    Janis_D, Aug 2023
    This was an excellent hike filled with memorable descriptions of wildflower and tree ‘behavior’, so that the information could be easily recalled later. Monica’s history teaching and stories were also colorful and engaging so that the information was interesting and memorable. The ages of the group ranged from 3 years old to 78. To her great credit, Monica made the hike work well for everyone.

    Great Fun!

    Laura_G, Jul 2023
    We had so much fun walking the trails with our guide Monica. She is an awesome storyteller & really brought the history of the park alive. Both the children & adults had a great time.

    Am extraordinary time!

    Andrew_M, Jun 2023
    Our Point Lobos tour with Monica was absolutely wonderful! She was so friendly and knowledgeable. Everything, from the beauty of nature all around us to her vast knowledge of the plant and sea life to her impressive understanding of Point Lobos history was so enjoyable! I definitely recommend to all to make for this amazing experience on your next trip! It was worth every minute! Thank you Monica!

    Fantastic trail hike

    Aida_F, Aug 2022
    Mrs Monica is a talented person , full of knowledge and caring . The trail was an easy path , everyone can enjoy it . We had a great time ! Thanks

    Fabulous Point Lobos Tour

    Terrence_M, Aug 2022
    This tour in Hanst the incredible beauty of Point Lobos. Monica is an awesome tour guide with a deep and wide knowledge of Point Lobos and the surrounding areas her energy kindness and knowledge or utterly amazing. I would recommend this tour to anyone who seeks to see a beautiful place through the eyes of someone who knows it and loves it.

    our tour guide was very...

    Kevin_O, Jul 2022
    our tour guide was very knowledgeable about the history of the area and had personal stories related to the tour

    Do not miss Point Lobos. Take a guided-tour, if you can.

    Rakesh_G, Mar 2022
    Well-informed and knowledgeable guide. It was leisurely paced which we loved, with no pressure to hurry-up. Thoroughly enjoyed the guided tour.

    You cannot miss this incredible experience while visiting Carmel/Monterey!

    Colleen_B, Sep 2021
    The views were breathtaking. The sights stunning. What was truly remarkable about this experience was our guide, the incredible Monica Hudson. I knew we would be in a beautiful area but I had no idea we would be getting a history lesson! Not only did she tell us about the flora and the fauna in the area, she had insights into the history on how Carmel, Monterey, and Point Lobos came to be. Smart, witty, and funny, I felt as though I had spent two hours with an old friend. We will be back. I highly recommend! P.S. She has also written a book entitled “Point Lobos”, which she may have an extra copy of to sell, and if you’re lucky, she just might sign it!

    Response from Host, Sep 2021

    It was fun to join you and your fiends on the walk, especially as I always learn something new on the trail. It turned out to be a botanical adventure!
    Likely to Sell Out

    From $59.00

    per person

    up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

    Book ahead!
    On average, this is booked 34 days in advance.

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