On the way to the Bird Island overlook, you pass between Monterey pine woods and the sea. There are lovely views of two white sandy beaches: the small one in China Cove, and the longer Gibson Beach. Gibson Beach is accessible via a staircase. China Cove, with its sparkling jade-green waters, is one of the Reserve’s most stunning sights.
In spring this spot becomes home to harbor seals, nursing their newborn pups. Watch, quietly!, from the trail above.
The sea pounds against the cliffs much of the year, enlarging the natural cracks and faults in the granite. Over time this creates caves that slowly become arches. Look for rock forms created by this coastal erosion as you head out to the Bird Island overlook. The arches eventually collapse, forming isolated outcrops such as Bird Island.
Walk between displays of brilliant wildflowers out to Pelican Point. Here you can get a close look at Bird Island, which becomes a large sea bird colony in spring and summer. Remember your binoculars (or borrow a pair for no charge from the Information Station at the Sea Lion Point parking area). See hundreds of Brandt’s cormorants nest close together. You will also see Western gull chicks, and, if you’re lucky, nesting Black-crowned night herons. In the waters below, a great blue heron or an egret might be standing on a piece of driftwood, watching patiently for prey. Scan for sea otters diving to feed or resting in the kelp, and for harbor seals hauled out on low-lying rocks.
This trail is fully accessible with breathtaking views of Bird Island and China Cove. The sandy Gibson Beach, situated below the Bird Island trail, can be reached via a staircase at the junction with the South Plateau trail.
