The 30 Best Coastal wildlife viewing in California

Point Emery is a stunning park and popular tourist attraction located in Emeryville, California, United States. Situated along the beautiful coastline, Point Emery offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching in this serene and picturesque setting. The park is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Point Emery is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Bay Area.

Quality Inn & Suites Crescent City Redwood Coast is a comfortable and welcoming lodging option located in the picturesque city of Crescent City, California. Situated at 100 Walton Street, this hotel offers easy access to the stunning Redwood Coast and its natural beauty. The rooms are stylishly furnished and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant stay for guests. The hotel also features a range of facilities including a fitness center, outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, Quality Inn & Suites Crescent City Redwood Coast is the perfect choice for your stay in this charming coastal town.

Sea Cave is a breathtaking tourist attraction located in California, United States. This natural wonder is a must-see for visitors looking to explore the beauty of the ocean. The cave's stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters offer a unique and memorable experience for all who visit. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Sea Cave is sure to leave you in awe of the wonders of the sea. Come visit this enchanting destination and immerse yourself in the beauty of the California coast.

San Diego - La Jolla Underwater Park is a stunning marine park located at 8302 Camino Del Oro in California, United States. This unique park is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world of La Jolla Cove. With its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and beautiful coral reefs, the park is a paradise for snorkelers, scuba divers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can expect to encounter colorful fish, playful sea lions, and even the occasional dolphin or whale. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or embark on an underwater adventure, San Diego - La Jolla Underwater Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, located in Crescent City, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers. Established in 1927, this park boasts approximately 50% old growth coast redwood trees and eight miles of unspoiled coastline. The diverse understory includes tanoak, madrone, red alder, big leaf maple, and California bay, creating a lush and vibrant environment. Visitors can explore the park's steep topography, with elevations ranging from sea level to 1277', offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy a leisurely stroll along Wilson Beach or False Klamath Cove, where they can admire tidepools at low tide. Please note that swimming is not recommended due to the steep beach slope and rocky conditions. For those interested in learning more about the geological wonders of the area, the park is part of the Redwood National and State Parks, which make up 45 percent of the remaining old-growth redwood forest in California.

Madaket Harbor Cruise offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience exploring the stunning Madaket Harbor in Eureka, California. Step aboard the historic vessel and set sail on a relaxing cruise, taking in the picturesque views of the harbor and surrounding coastline. Learn about the area's rich history and wildlife from knowledgeable guides while enjoying the fresh sea breeze and gentle waves. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful getaway or a tourist seeking a one-of-a-kind adventure, Madaket Harbor Cruise is the perfect destination for all. Visit us at 1 C Street in Eureka, California, and embark on a memorable journey on the water.

Orick Fishing Access Beach is a popular tourist attraction located in Orick, California, United States. This beautiful beach is the perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts to cast their lines and enjoy the serene surroundings. Visitors can relax on the sandy shores, take a leisurely stroll along the coastline, or simply soak up the sun while watching the waves roll in. With its picturesque views and abundant marine life, Orick Fishing Access Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and connect with nature.

Luffenholtz Beach is a stunning tourist attraction located at 1639 Trinidad Scenic Drive in Trinidad, California. This institution is dedicated to providing public access to the beautiful Trinidad coast while also protecting its natural beauty. From Little River to Big Lagoon, Luffenholtz Beach is committed to preserving the character of the Humboldt County Coast. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque views and serene atmosphere while also appreciating the conservation efforts in place to protect this coastal gem.

Humboldt Lagoons State Park, located at 15336 U.S. 101 in Trinidad, California, is a stunning park and tourist attraction that offers a unique blend of ocean and forest landscapes. The park is situated on the land of the Ner'-er-herh/Coastal Yurok People, known as Chah-pekw Hee-koh, and is part of the largest lagoon system in the United States. Visitors to the park can explore Big Lagoon, Stone Lagoon, Freshwater Lagoon, and the marshland of Dry Lagoon, surrounded by dunes, forests, prairies, and coastal scrub. Wildlife thrives in these diverse habitats, with opportunities to see whales, elk, trout, salmon, pelicans, and woodpeckers.

Mill Creek Campground is a picturesque institution located in Klamath, California, United States. This campground offers a unique lodging experience surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including old growth coast redwoods and eight miles of wild coastline. Established in 1927, the park boasts a diverse range of vegetation, from tanoak and madrone to California bay and red alder. Visitors can enjoy exploring the park's steep topography, with elevations ranging from sea level to 1277'. Wilson Beach and False Klamath Cove provide a sandy beach for strolling and tidepool viewing, while Redwood National and State Parks offer a chance to experience the majesty of old-growth redwood forests. With the option to reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, Mill Creek Campground is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Remember, except for service animals, dogs are not allowed on trails, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

The King Range National Conservation Area is a stunning blend of mountains and sea, with King Peak rising 4,088 feet just 3 miles from the ocean. Spanning 68,000 acres along 35 miles of California's north coast, this remote region is known as California's Lost Coast. It is the nation's first National Conservation Area, designated in 1970. Visitors to the King Range NCA can explore Douglas fir-covered peaks for hiking and hunting, while the coast offers opportunities for surfing and fishing. The area also features world-class mountain bike trails and 42,585 acres of coastal wilderness.

Pomo Bluffs Park is a stunning coastal park located in Fort Bragg, California. Offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, this park is a popular tourist attraction for visitors looking to enjoy the beauty of the California coastline. With walking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching, Pomo Bluffs Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax and take in the scenic views or explore the diverse wildlife in the area, Pomo Bluffs Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Fort Bragg area.

Mendocino Headlands State Park is a picturesque park located in Mendocino, California, surrounded by gentle trails, rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and rich history. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of sea arches and hidden grottos while hiking along the cliffs. The park offers a variety of activities such as hiking, surfing, and fishing, as well as opportunities to witness the spring wildflowers, fall colors, summer climate, and winter migration of grey whales. The Historic Ford House serves as the Visitors Center and museum, providing information on the park's history and hosting exhibits on local flora, fauna, and wildlife. Big River Beach, part of the park, offers a relaxing spot for picnicking, sunbathing, and playing in the surf. The park also hosts the Mendocino Music Festival, a popular event featuring a variety of musical performances. Admission to the park is free, and visitors are encouraged to explore the diverse habitats and wildlife corridors within Mendocino Headlands State Park.

Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands is a stunning tourist attraction located in Point Arena, California, United States. This expansive area offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore scenic trails, take in the fresh sea air, and witness the beauty of the California coast. Whether you're a nature lover, hiker, or photographer, Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Northern California.

MacKerricher State Park, located at 24100 MacKerricher Park Road in Fort Bragg, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park known for its diverse habitats including beach, bluff, headland, dune, forest, and wetland. Visitors can explore tide pools, spot seals on the coastline, and birdwatch at Cleone Lake. The park is also a great spot for whale watching during winter and spring. Activities such as hiking, jogging, horseback riding, and biking are popular in the park, which also features a wheelchair accessible nature trail. The park's history dates back to its time as part of the Mendocino Indian Reservation and later as part of the Union Lumber Company's timber and shipping operations. MacKerricher State Park officially opened in 1952 and has since expanded to include the Ten Mile beach area.

Salt Point State Park, located in Jenner, California, offers a unique coastal experience with rocky promontories, panoramic views, and kelp-dotted coves. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, skin and SCUBA diving, and camping. The park features 20 miles of hiking trails, six miles of rugged coastline, and an underwater park. Dogs are allowed on-leash in certain areas of the park. The park also offers campgrounds with fire-rings, picnic tables, and food lockers. Reservations are recommended for camping, as the campgrounds fill up quickly on weekends. The park is known for its sandstone and Tafoni formations, as well as its diverse marine life. Visitors can explore tide pools, go fishing, or launch small boats in the marine reserve. Hazardous tree conditions are present in the park due to pitch pine canker, so visitors are advised to be cautious of standing dead trees. Admission to the park is $8.00 per vehicle, with camping fees ranging from $5.00 to $35.00 per night. Located approximately 90 miles north of San Francisco, Salt Point State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Bear Valley Visitor Center is a popular tourist attraction and travel agency located at 1 Bear Valley Visitor Center Access Road in Point Reyes Station, California, United States. This institution serves as a gateway to the stunning natural beauty of the Point Reyes National Seashore and offers a wide range of services to help visitors make the most of their visit. From information on hiking trails and wildlife spotting to guided tours and educational programs, the Bear Valley Visitor Center is the perfect starting point for exploring this breathtaking coastal region.

Pierce Point Ranch is a historic site located on Pierce Point Road in Inverness, California. This tourist attraction offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich agricultural past, with well-preserved buildings and stunning coastal views. Explore the ranch's picturesque surroundings, learn about its history, and enjoy a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Pierce Point Ranch is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and charm of rural California.

The Point Reyes Lighthouse, located in Inverness, California, is a historic tourist attraction that served as a warning to ships navigating the treacherous Point Reyes Headlands. Built in 1870, the lighthouse operated for 105 years before being retired in 1975. The National Park Service now preserves this maritime heritage site. Visitors can explore the Lighthouse Visitor Center and descend 313 steps to the lighthouse, but access may be limited during high winds. The accessible parking lot and pathways make it possible for all visitors to enjoy the stunning views from the observation deck. Please follow the designated trails to protect the fragile ecosystem and endangered species in the area. Plan your visit accordingly, as parking is limited and the drive along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard can be slow. Experience a piece of maritime history at the Point Reyes Lighthouse.

The Elephant Seal Overlook, located at Chimney Rock Road in Inverness, California, is a popular tourist attraction and landmark where visitors can observe the fascinating behavior of northern elephant seals. These seals returned to the Point Reyes Headlands in the early 1970s after being absent for over 150 years. The population has grown significantly since then, with the seals expanding to beaches beyond their initial secluded locations. The best time to view the elephant seals is from December through March, during the birthing and mating season, as well as in the spring when adult females and juveniles come ashore to molt. Visitors can witness male dominance contests, birthing of pups, and interactions between mothers and their young. The Elephant Seal Overlook offers a great vantage point to observe these incredible animals, as well as hear their distinct vocalizations.

Love Field is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 11191 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard in Point Reyes Station, California. This serene and beautiful destination offers visitors the opportunity to relax and unwind in a peaceful natural setting. With its lush greenery, scenic views, and tranquil atmosphere, Love Field is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply take in the stunning surroundings, Love Field is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Sonoma Coast State Park, located in Bodega Bay, California, is a stunning park and tourist attraction known for its long sandy beaches, rugged coastline, natural arches, and secluded coves. Visitors can enjoy activities such as beachcombing, fishing, picnicking, and tide pooling at various beaches within the park. The park spans 17 miles from Bodega Head to Vista Trail and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Dogs are allowed on specified beaches within the park, while equestrian riders can access the Bodega Dunes trail system through designated areas. Campsites and lodging can be reserved up to six months in advance, and day use areas are open to the public. Facilities such as bathrooms and picnic tables are available at most locations.

Tomales Point, located in Inverness, California, is a park and tourist attraction that offers a diverse range of natural landscapes to explore. From rocky headlands and sandy beaches to grasslands and forested ridges, visitors can discover over 1500 species of plants and animals. The area has been home to various cultures over thousands of years, preserving a rich tapestry of stories and interactions. Visitors can witness elephant seals on park beaches from December to March, as well as gray whales migrating past Point Reyes from December to May. The park offers endless hiking opportunities, with trails categorized by time, habitat, and location. Those interested in becoming Snowy Plover Docents can participate in educational programs to learn about the natural history and protection of these birds.

Gorilla Head Rock is a captivating tourist attraction located in Stinson Beach, California, United States. This unique rock formation resembles the head of a gorilla, making it a must-see for visitors looking for a one-of-a-kind experience. The stunning natural beauty of the area surrounding Gorilla Head Rock offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable sightseeing adventure, Gorilla Head Rock is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Asilomar State Beach, located on Sunset Drive in Pacific Grove, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the rocky coastline and sandy beach. Dogs are allowed on the beach, trails, and conference grounds, but not in conference buildings. The beach does not have camping facilities, but there are lodges on-site for overnight stays. Asilomar State Beach is part of the Asilomar Marine Reserve, where marine animals and features are protected. The Asilomar Coast Trail provides access to the rocky coastline and pocket beaches for visitors to explore. Restrooms are available at the Phoebe Hearst Social Hall, and parking is provided along Sunset Drive. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times, and bonfires are not allowed on the beach. Camping is not permitted at Asilomar State Beach, but there are nearby campgrounds in Big Sur and Santa Cruz.

The Whalers Cabin Museum, located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is a historic museum and tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich maritime history. This site was once home to a bustling whaling station from 1862 to 1879, as well as an abalone cannery and granite quarry. SCUBA divers can explore the underwater reserve in Whalers and Bluefish Coves, while outdoor exhibits showcase subtidal life and climatic conditions. The museum itself is housed in a historic cabin built by Chinese fishermen in the 1850s, offering a cultural history experience for visitors. The adjacent Whaling Station Museum, opened in 1994, provides further insight into the area's whaling past. Visitors can also take a short walk up the road to explore the Cabin Trail and North Shore Trail, offering scenic views of the coastal scrub community.

The Greathouse Visitor Center is a park and tourist attraction located on Nortonville Road in Pittsburg, California, United States. The center offers a variety of programs and tours related to the Black Diamond Mining History. The park's gate hours vary throughout the year, with parking fees applicable for vehicles, trailered vehicles, buses, and dogs. The center is temporarily closed for maintenance but staff are available on weekends for park information and activities. Visitors can explore the history of coal and sand mining in the area through exhibits, photographs, and artifacts at the Greathouse Visitor Center. Tours of the Hazel Atlas Mine and the new Coal Mine Experience exhibit are also available, with advanced reservations recommended. The park features 65 miles of trails through various types of vegetation, offering opportunities for hiking and nature study.

Whale Point is a popular tourist attraction located at 2002 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the opportunity to spot whales and other marine life. The institution offers educational programs and guided tours to enhance the visitor experience. Come and experience the beauty and wonder of the ocean at Whale Point.

Weston Beach at Point Lobos is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, United States. This picturesque beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by lush forests and rugged cliffs. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, wildlife spotting, picnicking, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Weston Beach is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of the California coast.

The Spooner Ranch House is a museum and tourist attraction located within the stunning Montaña de Oro State Park in San Luis Obispo, California. Visitors can explore the historic house, which offers a glimpse into the life of the Spooner family in the early 1900s with period furnishings and living history docents. The Ranch House also serves as a visitor center for the park, providing trail maps and park information. Additionally, there is a nature store on-site where visitors can purchase park-related merchandise. Montaña de Oro State Park is one of the largest state parks in California, spanning over 8000 acres with seven miles of shoreline. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views, fresh breezes, and the sound of the pounding surf. The park features starry nights, rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including the 1,347-foot Valencia Peak. Wildlife in the park includes black-tailed deer, bobcats, raccoons, California quail, black oystercatchers, and more.