Point Lobos SNR – Gibson Beach

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” in addition to it’s nickname Gibson’s.

Like some of the other beaches and coves at Point Lobos you’ll need to walk a short distance on trails to get there. Just drive to the very end of the paved road and then hike out the Bird Island Trail which passes by China Cove and then reaches 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 forcing the entrance attendants to turn folks away. Needless to say, getting to the park early on summer days is key.

Gibson Creek flows through the sand sometimes at the south end of the cove. Bird Island is a fabulous 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 CA-1
Carmel, CA 93923

Phone

831-624-4909

Park Name

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Other Names

Gibson's Beach, Sandy Beach, Gibson Creek

Owner

State Park

Pet Details

No dogs allowed in the reserve - even in cars

Fees

Fees for entering park

Activities

Hiking, Birdwatching, Sunbathing

Amenities

Trails, Restrooms, Picnic Tables

Links

Water Temps
Tide Chart