Lovers Point Park
The basics
The park spans 4.4 acres (1.8 hectares). Amenities include a large lawn area, picnic tables and barbecue grills, a beach volleyball court, a children’s swimming pool, restrooms, rocky outcrops, a concrete pier, sandy beaches, a restaurant and a snack bar, and bicycle, surrey, and kayak rentals. The park is often included as a stop on sightseeing tours of the Monterey Peninsula, including those by bicycle, e-bike, e-scooter, and sea car.
Things to know before you go
- Don't forget your camera; the park offers great views of Monterey Bay and the ocean.
- The park faces east, making it one of the only locations on the West Coast where you can watch a sunrise over the water.
- It’s a good idea to bring layers, as it can get windy and foggy later in the day.
- Portions of the park are wheelchair accessible, including the grassy areas and walkways.
- The park is dog friendly.
How to get there
The park is located about a mile northwest of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, near Lovers Point State Marine Reserve. From Highway 101, follow Route 68 west. Street parking is available along Ocean View Boulevard. There is also a parking lot on 17th Street.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The park can be visited all year round, and tends to be busiest on weekends and holidays. It can be foggy from May to September. For the sunny days, visit in October or April. The park is also home to the annual Feast of Lanterns Festival in late July.
Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail
The waterfront Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail starts at Lovers Point and stretches for 18 miles (29 kilometers) to Castroville in the north. It follows the same route as the old Southern Pacific Railway and is considered one of the most scenic long trails in California. It’s a great alternative way to reach such attractions as Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.