Point Lobos SNR – Gibson Beach
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About Point Lobos SNR – Gibson Beach in Carmel, California
Gibson Beach is the southernmost beach in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. It’s also the best “beach” in this park which is full of rocky bluffs and small pocket coves. On some maps it is even called “Sandy Beach.” Like some of the other beaches and coves at Point Lobos you’ll need to walk a short distance on trails to get here. Just drive to the very end of the paved road and then hike out the Bird Island Trail which passes by China Cove and ends at Gibson Beach. If that parking lot is full then you might have to walk quite a ways from a different lot. This park is popular and can fill up entirely – getting here early on nice days is key. Gibson Creek flows through the sand sometimes at the south end of the cove. Bird Island is a good bird-watching spot just offshore. It is best viewed from the end of Pelican Point which is adjacent to Gibson Beach. See a map of all Point Lobos Beaches.
- Address
- 62 California 1
Carmel, CA 93923 - Park Name
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
- Other Names
- Sandy Beach
- Owner
- State Park
- Pet Details
- No dogs allowed in the reserve - even in cars
- Fees
- Fee for parking
- Activities
- Hiking, Birdwatching
- Amenities
- Trails, Restrooms, Picnic Tables

Nearby Beaches
Point Lobos SNR – China Cove
0.1 miles away
China Cove is an emerald green cove with a tiny pocket beach in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve near...
Point Lobos SNR - Hidden Beach
0.2 miles away
Hidden Beach at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve isn’t really hidden. Actually it’s one of the easier beaches to...
Point Lobos SNR – Weston Beach
0.4 miles away
Weston Beach at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve has a few small pebbly areas, but it’s known for its...
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2.3 miles away
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Nearby Lodging
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0.3 miles away
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Tickle Pink Inn
0.4 miles away
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