Nestled just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea along California’s rugged coastline, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is often called “the crown jewel of the California State Park system”—and after visiting, I can see why. With its windswept cliffs, turquoise coves, and whispering cypress forests, this spot feels like a secret portal to the wild beauty of the Pacific.

🌿 Nature and Class Collide: Real-World Ecology

Being out there brought our class topics to life—marine biodiversity, ecosystem balance, and the impacts of climate change. In the tide pools below, sea stars, anemones, and crabs competed for space. The water was crystal clear, making it easy to observe these tiny but vital marine communities.

I also learned Point Lobos sits along the Pacific Flyway, a major migratory route for birds. It’s a stopover haven for wildlife and a living reminder of how connected Earth’s ecosystems are—even across continents.

🐋 Hidden Surprises

Fun fact: Point Lobos was once home to a whaling station. You can still see the remnants near Whalers Cove, where 19th-century Chinese and Japanese fishermen lived and worked. Today, instead of harpoons, visitors bring binoculars to spot gray whales, sea otters, and even the occasional humpback during migration season. I didn’t spot any whales this time—but I did see harbor seals lounging on the rocks like sunbathers on vacation.

🌍 Reflection: A Place to Breathe

Point Lobos is more than a beautiful place—it's a reminder of how fragile and precious nature is. This hike was the perfect opportunity to unplug, reconnect, and reflect on how everything we learn in class actually plays out in the real world. The balance between human impact and natural preservation is delicate—and places like this help remind us why that balance matters.