

Small coastal foothill preserve with a seasonal lake, riparian edges and oak-grassland mosaics offering birdlife, reflections and intimate landscape compositions. Best at sunrise or late afternoon for warm light and calm water; winter/early spring brings higher water levels and migratory birds. Accessible via Monterey Hwy with a modest trail; parking at the trailhead, no gate fees but stay on marked paths. Low visitor numbers make it good for quiet wildlife and landscape work.


Small coastal foothill preserve with a seasonal lake, riparian edges and oak-grassland mosaics offering birdlife, reflections and intimate landscape compositions. Best at sunrise or late afternoon for warm light and calm water; winter/early spring brings higher water levels and migratory birds. Accessible via Monterey Hwy with a modest trail; parking at the trailhead, no gate fees but stay on marked paths. Low visitor numbers make it good for quiet wildlife and landscape work.