The 30 Best Coastal wildlife viewing in California

Elephant Seal Vista Point, located in San Simeon, California, is a must-visit landmark and tourist attraction for anyone looking to witness the incredible annual return of the Northern Elephant Seals to the California coastline. This natural wonder is comparable to some of the most famous animal migrations in the world and is right in California's backyard. The Elephant Seal Vista Point is just 5 miles north of Hearst Castle along the coast of San Luis Obispo County, making it easily accessible for visitors from all over. From mid-November to mid-January, visitors can witness the dominant bull elephant seals returning to the beach, displacing the sub adult males who have been practicing their skills in hopes of competing for the females' affection.

San Carpoforo Creek Beach is a stunning tourist attraction located in San Simeon, California, United States. This picturesque beach is known for its pristine sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and even surfing at this idyllic spot. The surrounding natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make San Carpoforo Creek Beach a perfect destination for relaxation and recreation. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or an active day by the sea, this beach has something for everyone to enjoy.

Palo Corona Regional Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Covering over 10,000 acres of rugged, spectacular countryside, this park is a haven for wildlife and plant species. The park was created through a major land conservation effort involving various organizations, ensuring that this beautiful landscape will be protected for generations to come. Visitors to Palo Corona Regional Park can explore diverse habitats, from the Carmel River to the mixed hardwood forests at the 3,000-foot Palo Corona Peak. The park is home to over 500 plant species, making it a botanist's paradise. Wildlife enthusiasts will also be thrilled by the chance to spot coastal trout, steelhead, rare amphibians, and protected raptors like the California condor.

Montaña de Oro State Park, located at 3550 Pecho Valley Road in California, United States, is a stunning park and tourist attraction spanning over 8000 acres with seven miles of shoreline. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views, fresh ocean breezes, and the sound of crashing waves. The park features various landscapes including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, streams, canyons, and hills, including the 1,347-foot Valencia Peak. Nature enthusiasts can explore the park's backcountry trails on foot, mountain bike, or horseback, while admiring the diverse wildlife such as black-tailed deer, bobcats, raccoons, and California quail. The park's most popular beach, Spooner's Cove, offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and exploration.

Bluff Trail Montana De Oro is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in California, United States. Dogs are allowed only in the campground, roadways, and Spooner’s Cove Beach, on leash. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging six months in advance, with a variety of accommodations available. With over 8000 acres and seven miles of shoreline, this park offers spectacular views, fresh breezes, and the sound of the pounding surf. Montaña de Oro State Park features starry nights, rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills. Naturalists and backpackers enjoy the solitude and freedom found along the park's many back country trails. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black tailed deer, bobcats, and California quail. Islay Creek Campground offers primitive campsites for tent camping and RVs, while Hazard Canyon Horse Camp is perfect for horse camping. The park also offers environmental camps for those looking for a more rustic experience. The Spooner Ranch House serves as a visitor center with trail maps and park information, as well as a nature store for park-related merchandise. Visitors can also enjoy programs for kids and explore nearby attractions such as Los Osos Oaks State Natural Reserve and Point Buchon Trail. RV rentals and delivery services are available on the Central Coast. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or a relaxing getaway, Bluff Trail Montana De Oro has something for everyone.

Seaside Wilderness Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Ventura, California, United States. This picturesque park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its beautiful coastal views, lush greenery, and diverse wildlife, Seaside Wilderness Park is the perfect place to relax, explore, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to go for a scenic hike, have a picnic by the ocean, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of Seaside Wilderness Park for yourself!

Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 5775 Carpinteria Avenue in Carpinteria, California, United States. This serene and picturesque park offers visitors the opportunity to explore a unique and diverse ecosystem, including salt marshes, wetlands, and sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape. The park also offers educational programs and guided tours for those looking to learn more about the local flora and fauna. Come visit Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park for a peaceful retreat into nature.

The Outdoors Santa Barbara Visitor Center is a must-visit tourist attraction and travel agency located at 113 Harbor Way in Santa Barbara, California. Offering the best views in Santa Barbara seven days a week, this center is free to visit and explore. Visitors can enjoy two floors of historical and maritime art exhibits, as well as guided virtual museum tours with SBMM's Executive Director Greg Gorga. Additionally, visitors can download a printable map of the Maritime Museum and exhibits, and the museum is available for private and corporate events for Navigators Circle members. The center is a partnership between NOAA, CINP, SBMM, and the City of Santa Barbara, providing information about the Channel Islands National Park, the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, and the Los Padres National Forest.

Located at 31501 Palos Verdes Drive West in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, the Point Vicente Interpretive Center is a must-visit museum and tourist attraction. Established in 1984, the center aims to showcase and interpret the unique features and history of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. With a special emphasis on the Pacific gray whale, the center's exhibits provide insights into the natural and cultural history of the area. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the annual migration of the gray whales from December through April. The Interpretive Center, which was newly expanded in 2006, is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The adjacent Lower Point Vicente Park, part of the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, offers recreational opportunities for the public to enjoy from dawn to dusk. The park is also available for events such as weddings and receptions, with a picturesque ocean backdrop. For those interested in volunteering, Los Serenos de Point Vicente is the docent volunteer organization that offers training for leading tours and hikes in the area. To learn more about becoming a docent or to book a tour of the Sunset Room for an event, contact the center at 310-544-5375.

Año Nuevo State Park, located at 1 New Years Creek Road in Pescadero, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its elephant seal viewing opportunities. From April to November, visitors can enjoy a self-guided walk along the Año Point Trail to observe up to 10,000 elephant seals as they breed, give birth, and molt their skin on the scenic dunes and beaches. The park also features the Marine Education Center, housed in a historic dairy ranch, offering natural history exhibits and a bookstore. The park's diverse natural and cultural resources attract visitors from around the world, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking along ocean bluffs, and exploring the remains of a 19th-century lighthouse on Año Nuevo Island. The park's terrain includes coastal prairie, wetland marshes, and dune fields, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including the endangered San Francisco Garter Snake and California Red-legged Frog.

Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located in Redwood City, California, United States. This expansive preserve offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and coastline. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this serene natural setting. With its diverse wildlife and plant species, Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Arroyo Burro Beach County Park, also known as Hendry's Beach, is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 2981 Cliff Drive in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This beautiful beachfront park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. With its sandy shores, picnic areas, and walking trails, Arroyo Burro Beach County Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or have a beachside picnic, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Arroyo Burro Beach County Park today!

Point Mugu State Park, located in Malibu, California, is a stunning park in the Santa Monica Mountains with five miles of ocean shoreline, rocky bluffs, sandy beaches, and rugged hills. The park features two campgrounds, Sycamore Canyon and Thornhill Broome, where visitors can enjoy camping with trailers or campers up to 31 feet in length. Dogs are allowed in the campgrounds and day-use areas, but not on the trails. Visitors can explore over 70 miles of hiking trails, swim, body surf, and fish along the beach, and admire the jagged pinnacles of the Boney Mountains State Wilderness Area. The park also offers educational and interpretive programs for those interested in learning more about the natural surroundings.

Estero Adventures-Morro Bay Electric Boat Rentals is a charming store and travel agency located at 501 Embarcadero in Morro Bay, California. Here, visitors can rent electric boats to explore the stunning waters of Morro Bay in a fun and eco-friendly way. Whether you're looking for a peaceful afternoon on the water or a unique way to experience the beauty of the bay, Estero Adventures has everything you need for a memorable adventure. With convenient location and top-notch customer service, this institution is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the natural wonders of Morro Bay.

San Pedro Valley Park is a scenic natural oasis located at 600 Oddstad Boulevard in Pacifica, California. This beautiful park offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of nature. With its lush forests, meandering trails, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, San Pedro Valley Park is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful hike, a picnic with a view, or just a place to relax and unwind, this park has something for everyone. Come explore the wonders of San Pedro Valley Park and experience the beauty of California's natural landscape.

Laguna Trailhead is a park and tourist attraction located at Fire Lane Tr, Point Reyes Station, California, United States. This institution offers a variety of hiking opportunities in the beautiful Point Reyes area. Visitors can explore Douglas-fir forests, enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and hike through rolling coastal hillsides. It is important to have a trail map before hiking and to observe all trail closures and barriers for visitor safety and environmental protection. The park's trail crew is working to address overgrown trails, but hikers should be prepared to wade through vegetation and check for ticks. There are trails for all levels of hikers, from short strolls to full-day adventures. Visitors can also explore different habitats and wildlife by choosing specific trails or starting points. The park offers routes that take hikers through coastal grasslands and sandy beaches. Before heading out, it is essential to check current conditions and learn how to minimize environmental impact while visiting. For those looking to bring their four-legged friends, there are guidelines on where to go and what activities are permitted. For more information, visitors can contact the park at 415-464-5100.

Village Camper Inn is a campground and RV park located at 1543 Parkway Drive in Crescent City, California, United States. Nestled between the Redwoods National Parks and the Pacific Ocean, our guests have the opportunity to experience the beauty of untouched old-growth forests and the excitement of wild coastal beaches. Our spacious campground offers full hookup RV sites and tent camping in a quiet forest setting, just two minutes away from the conveniences of Crescent City. We take pride in providing modern amenities, personalized service, and a clean environment for our guests.

Sunset Harbor RV Park is a charming campground and lodging facility located at 205 King Street in Crescent City, California, United States. Situated right on the waterfront, this park offers stunning views of the sunset over the harbor. Guests can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay in their RVs or tents, surrounded by nature and fresh ocean air. The park also features amenities such as picnic areas, fire pits, and clean restroom facilities. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Sunset Harbor RV Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Redwood Coast Cabins and RV Resort is a picturesque campground and lodging facility located in Eureka, California. Situated right off U.S. 101, this resort offers a variety of accommodation options including cabins and RV sites, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Redwood Coast. The resort also serves as a real estate agency, helping visitors find their dream vacation home in this stunning location. With its convenient location and top-notch amenities, Redwood Coast Cabins and RV Resort is the ideal choice for travelers looking to explore the natural wonders of Northern California.

Hikshari Trailhead is a picturesque park located along the Waterfront Trail in Eureka, California. This beautiful outdoor space offers stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape and is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful afternoon in nature or get some exercise along the trail, Hikshari Trailhead is the ideal destination. Come visit this serene park and experience the beauty of the California coast firsthand.

Big Tree Wayside, located on the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway in Orick, California, is a popular tourist attraction within the Redwood National and State Parks. This institution showcases the beauty and diversity of the park, which not only features the tallest trees on Earth but also vast prairies, oak woodlands, wild rivers, and rugged coastline. Visitors to Big Tree Wayside can explore the rich history of the area, as people have lived in this verdant landscape since ancient times. The National Park Service and California State Parks work together to manage and restore these lands for the inspiration, enjoyment, and education of all.

Humboldt Beach is a stunning natural feature located in California, United States. This picturesque beach offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its pristine sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views, Humboldt Beach is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, go for a swim, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, Humboldt Beach has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem on the California coast.

Located at 37040 California 1 in Westport, California, the Lost Coast Inn is a charming lodging option perfect for those exploring the rugged Northern California coast. Whether you are embarking on a Lost Coast or Redwood park adventure, this inn is the ideal stop before or after your journey. Guests can enjoy walking to nearby beaches, picnicking on the headlands, bird watching, beach combing, and stargazing at night. Originally built in the mid-40's, the recently renovated rooms at Lost Coast Inn offer modern comforts in a classic setting. Each room features a unique mix of local artwork, handmade quilts, upcycled and antique furniture, as well as one-of-a-kind foraged redwood and white fir bars and headboards. This family-owned and operated establishment is committed to sustainability.

The Emerald Dolphin Inn & Mini Golf is a charming lodging establishment located in the picturesque town of Fort Bragg, California. Situated at 1211 South Main Street, this cozy inn offers comfortable accommodations and a fun mini golf course for guests to enjoy during their stay. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or a family-friendly vacation, the Emerald Dolphin Inn & Mini Golf is the perfect destination. With its convenient location and welcoming atmosphere, this institution is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

Located on Palette Drive in Mendocino, California, Hill House Inn offers a tranquil retreat overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This charming lodging option is conveniently situated near local airports, pristine coastlines, and lush forests, making it the perfect base for outdoor adventures and wildlife watching. Guests can enjoy the meticulously manicured gardens, complimentary WiFi, and cozy fireplace in the lobby. The on-site Cabot Cove Restaurant & Conference Center provides ample space for special events and gatherings. Whether you're exploring Mendocino by bike, kayak, or horseback, Hill House Inn provides a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for your stay.

Whale Song is a charming lodging institution located at 13251 Verde Drive in Mendocino, California, United States. Nestled in the picturesque coastal town, Whale Song offers a tranquil and serene retreat for guests seeking a peaceful getaway. The cozy accommodations and warm hospitality make Whale Song the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation by the sea. With stunning ocean views and easy access to nearby attractions, guests can enjoy a truly unforgettable experience at this unique institution.

Redwood Cottage is a charming lodging establishment nestled in the picturesque town of Mendocino, California. Located at 10750 Gurley Lane, this cozy retreat offers guests a peaceful and tranquil getaway surrounded by towering redwood trees. The cottage features comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape or a family vacation, Redwood Cottage is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the heart of nature. Experience the beauty of the California coast at this idyllic retreat.

Hummingbird Haven Mendocino is a charming lodging located at 10701 Gurley Lane in the picturesque town of Mendocino, California. This peaceful retreat is the perfect place to relax and unwind surrounded by the natural beauty of the Mendocino coast. The cozy accommodations offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with comfortable rooms and scenic views of the lush gardens and hummingbird feeders. Guests can enjoy a peaceful stay in this serene haven, with easy access to local attractions, hiking trails, and the stunning coastline. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat, Hummingbird Haven Mendocino is the perfect destination for a rejuvenating stay.

Captain Phils is a cozy lodging located at 2504 Nonella Lane in picturesque Albion, California. This charming establishment offers comfortable accommodations and personalized service to ensure a memorable stay for every guest. With its convenient location and warm hospitality, Captain Phils is the perfect choice for travelers looking for a peaceful retreat in the heart of the United States.

Whale Watchers Bluff is a charming lodging institution located at 14780 Navarro Way in Manchester, California, United States. Situated atop a scenic bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and the opportunity to spot majestic whales as they migrate along the coast. The cozy accommodations offer a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing getaway. With its prime location and comfortable amenities, Whale Watchers Bluff is the perfect destination for a memorable coastal experience.