Pt. Lobos and Monterey Bay

The Pacific Ocean comes alive for students at this FIELDGUIDES coastal program. Stunning views, crashing surf, rich kelp beds, and marine mammals abound as we tour Pt. Lobos State Reserve. A visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium takes the students under the water's surface to witness the myriad life forms of the bay's tremendously diverse habitats. Camping at Toro County Park allows easy access to and from both Pt Lobos State Reserve and the Monterey Bay Aquarium by car in only ~30 minutes. The Park itself rests on an ancient sandstone seabed and provides many miles of open hills and canyons to explore on an educational day hike in small groups with the instructors. It is a truly spectacular place to begin studying ocean ecology.  ​

Program Activities

We customize our programs to meet your needs with our final itineraries reflecting your personal interests, educational goals, transportation options, and desired trip length. Check out some of the fun program options that can be a part of your outdoor education experience at Toro County Park near Pt. Lobos and the Monterey Bay!
  • Monterey Bay Aquarium: Take a tour to see and learn more about the world below the water's surface and witness the myriad life forms of the bay's tremendously diverse habitats.
  • Pt. Lobos State Reserve: ​Hike along the coast, observe stunning ocean views, learn about sea lions & other coastal animals.​
  • Point Pinos: One of the best locations for year-round whale-watching. The Monterey Canyon, rich in exotic marine life, plays host to humpbacks, grays, orcas, minkes, and even blue whales, the largest animals to ever live on earth. It also provides an opportunity to visit and learn about the Pinos Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse on the West Coast.
  • Pacific Grove Marine Gardens Park: Top notch tide pools! Explore the diversity of life that thrives in the rugged intertidal zone. 
A trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium let's students learn more about life below the ocean's surface!
whale fluke
Fluke offshore from Point Pinos.
tide pools
Tide pools at Pacific Grove Marine Gardens.
point pinos lighthouse
Point Pinos Lighthouse.
The Youth Group camping area at Toro Park overlooks the Salinas Valley and is private and serene. The camp's lake and white oak-chaparral woodlands are home to birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, even tarantulas! We often see quail, wild turkeys, and deer come to drink at the waters edge. All of FIELDGUIDES' programs have a strong emphasis on outdoor living, student autonomy, and building community. Find out more about our camping format. 
Contact us today! FIELDGUIDES INC. (650)969-6325. [email protected]