A Picturesque View Overlooking China Cove. Source: Pointlobos.org

Peregrine falcon, hermit thrush, hairy woodpecker – these are all natural residents of popular Point Lobos destination China Cove. Following the Bird Island Trail to one of the southernmost points in the park, we will arrive at the frequently visited location for sightseeing and bird watching. Offering a stunning view of Bird Island, it is easy to see why many visitors never want to leave this part of the park. China Cove and neighboring Bird Island are home to several different species of birds, which are easy to see from China Cove’s many vantage points. The Cove also offers an impressive view of the coast heading towards Big Sur to the south, especially after the fog clears in the afternoon.

Another attraction of China Cove is its pearly white sands and crystal clear beach – where brave visitors can swim if they can bear the cold. China Cove offers one of the several diving spots at Point Lobos, for those seeking to take a refreshing dive in the water or see more of the natural marine life. The coastal caves that line China Cove’s cliffs also offer interesting views. China Cove and neighboring Gibson Beach close in the spring to make way for harbor seals nursing their newborn pups.

Walking along Bird Island Trail, we will pass by groupings of brilliant wildflowers and arrive at Pelican Point. Here we will be able to get a closer look at Bird Island. The Island becomes home to hundreds of Brandt’s cormorants, Western gull chicks, and Black-crowned night herons during the spring and summer months. In the ocean waters below, we will be able to see more wildlife such as otters and herons searching for their next meal of kelp or fish.

Point Lobos visitors are able to learn about the variety of wildlife and plant life in the park thanks to outstanding contributions from members of the community. One community member who has made a lasting impact on Point Lobos is Sister Anna Voss. Sister Voss established the Docent Training Program in 1972 and became its first Director. The program now has trained hundreds of docents to the park since its inception. To illustrate her training lectures, Sister Voss photographed nearly every plant type in the Reserve, and her materials continue to be useful to docents today. Sister Voss helped to establish a framework for one of the largest docent programs in the California State Parks. To commemorate her invaluable additions to the park, the Point Lobos Foundation created the Sister Anna Voss Fund. Donations to this fund go towards education and support for the docent group and to education outreach programs. Because of people like Sister Voss, Point Lobos has been able to thrive and provide valuable services to the surrounding community.