Lovers Point Park

Lovers Point Park is one of the crowning highlights of Pacific Grove, a place infused with natural beauty. Swimmers, surfers, kayakers, and divers all flock to the sandy beach at the edge of the 4.4-acre park for recreation in the Monterey Bay. The clear Pacific waters here are part of the nation’s largest marine sanctuary, where deep underwater canyons abound with kelp forests, fish, harbor seals, sea lions, and even blue whales. 

Lovers Point Beach has been a popular destination for beachgoers since the 1800s, when fleets of glass-bottom Swan Boats took tourists into the ocean for a glimpse into the depths. Today, these boats are no longer in operation, but that doesn’t stop kayakers from paddling out into protected Bay waters for birdwatching or relaxation. Surfers paddle out even farther, taking advantage of those powerful coastal waves.

Those staying closer to the shore can get active on the beach volleyball court, picnic in the sand or at the tables by the snack bar, or walk the lawns of the landscaped park. Rocky outcrops at the edge of the park are perfect for climbing. You’ll soon find a picture-perfect spot, where you can enjoy an amazing view of the birds and surf.

Tidepools form along the rocky side of the Pacific Grove Marine Sanctuary, adjacent to the park, and everything from hermit crabs and sea stars to urchins and mussels live in the shallow water. With an afternoon slowing down here, you’ll come to appreciate that one of the most productive marine ecosystems in the world is right at your fingertips.

Walkers, make your way down the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, all the way to Asilomar State Beach, or get some wheels and bike ride down Ocean View Blvd. in the other direction to the city of Monterey and a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Another alternative is to stay right there in Pacific Grove, known as a refuge from all the high-priced visitor tours. Keep going up 17th Avenue from the park and you’ll hit the historic downtown area, with a variety of restaurants and shops to mingle around in before or after your day at the park.

HelloSanFrancisco tip: Lovers Point Park is home to Pacific Grove’s annual Feast of Lanterns in July. During this community celebration, lanterns are lit, children’s activities are set up, and a pet parade marches down nearby Lighthouse Avenue. Speaking of lighthouses, Pacific Grove is home to the oldest continually operating lighthouse on the West Coast, the Point Pinos Lighthouse.

- by Renee M. Rutledge, San Francisco Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Renee M. Rutledge

Renee M. Rutledge currently writes articles on local travel and culture for Red Tricycle, Parents' Press, Oakland Magazine, and Alameda Magazine.