The 30 Best Coastal wildlife viewing in California

The Whale Watch Inn is a charming lodging establishment situated along the breathtaking California coast in Gualala. With its prime location on Highway 1, guests can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and easily access nearby attractions such as the Point Arena Lighthouse and Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. The inn offers cozy accommodations, personalized service, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat or a quiet escape, the Whale Watch Inn provides a serene and picturesque setting for your stay in California.

Occidental Lodge is a charming lodging establishment nestled in the picturesque town of Occidental, California. Located at 3610 Bohemian Highway, this cozy lodge offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by the beauty of the California countryside. The lodge provides comfortable accommodations for guests looking to relax and unwind in a serene setting. With its convenient location and welcoming atmosphere, Occidental Lodge is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway in Northern California.

The Inn On Tomales Bay is a charming lodging located at 22555 California 1 in Marshall, California, United States. Nestled on the shores of Tomales Bay, this cozy inn offers breathtaking views of the water and surrounding countryside. Guests can relax in comfortable rooms with modern amenities, enjoy delicious meals at the on-site restaurant, and explore the nearby Point Reyes National Seashore. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat, the Inn On Tomales Bay is the perfect destination for a relaxing stay on the California coast.

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, located in Whitethorn, California, United States, offers a rugged and remote experience for outdoor enthusiasts. This park is part of the Lost Coast, a 60-mile stretch of wilderness along the coast. The park was once home to the Sinkyone Indians, who lived off the land and sea for thousands of years. Visitors to Sinkyone Wilderness State Park can explore the Lost Coast Trail, which follows the stunning coastline and offers opportunities to see gray whales, Roosevelt elk, sea lions, and harbor seals. The landscape features canyons, arches, tide pools, waterfalls, and dark sand beaches, creating a truly unique and picturesque setting.

Olema Campground is a picturesque campground located at 10155 California 1 in Olema, California, United States. Situated in the heart of beautiful nature, this institution offers a variety of lodging options including RV sites and traditional tent camping. Surrounded by stunning views and abundant wildlife, Olema Campground is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to relax and unwind. With well-maintained facilities and a peaceful atmosphere, guests can enjoy a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature. Whether you're looking to explore the nearby park or simply relax by the campfire, Olema Campground has something for everyone.

Van Damme State Park, located at 8001 California 1, Little River, California, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction offering a scenic beach, lush fern-filled forest, and year-round camping. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, birding, kayaking, and watching salmon spawn. The park also features a 0.25 mile-long wheelchair-accessible boardwalk trail in the Pygmy Forest, as well as nine hike-in campsites in a redwood forest. The park's visitor center, originally a recreation hall for the Civilian Conservation Corps, provides historical insight into the area's redwood lumber industry. Van Damme State Park is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore diverse habitats and enjoy the natural beauty of the Mendocino coast. Please note that some trails are currently closed for maintenance, so visitors are advised to check for updates before planning their visit.

Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve is a park and tourist attraction located at 15825 Orr Springs Road in Ukiah, California, United States. This reserve offers visitors the chance to explore the beauty and tranquility of coast redwoods, with a 367.5-foot redwood tree that was once thought to be the tallest in the world. The reserve, which was started with a donation by Robert Orr in 1945, now spans 2,743 acres and is known for its majestic giants. Visitors can hike the two-mile-long Montgomery Trail, which takes about an hour or two to complete and offers stunning views of the lush fern forests and redwood groves. Picnic sites are available near the parking area and along the trail, providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Located in the charming coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, the Carmel Beach Hotel offers a unique blend of relaxed luxury and intimate serenity just steps away from the beautiful Carmel Beach. With 26 guestrooms and suites spread across seven historic buildings, this award-winning property by Mirabel Hotel & Restaurant Group provides guests with a truly immersive experience in the spirit and splendor of the surrounding area. Guests can enjoy terroir-inspired seaside fare prepared by Chef Justin Cogley, access to a wellness spa and fitness studio, and stunning ocean views from private decks in their rooms. The hotel also offers breakfast baskets with local ingredients, all-day dining options, cocktails, and a focused wine list for a truly indulgent culinary experience.

The Inn At Moss Landing Point is a modern boutique hotel located at 8425 Moss Landing Road in Moss Landing, California, United States. Situated along the Pacific Coast Highway, this lodging institution is designed to inspire, delight, and enchant guests. The well-appointed rooms, courteous service, and comfortable surroundings provide a relaxing retreat for weary travelers. Just a 10-minute walk away, guests can enjoy a vast, pristine beach with an abundance of sea life and natural beauty surrounding them. Whether you are a lone traveler, a family, or a group, the Inn At Moss Landing Point offers a variety of rooms and suites to choose from. The serene Pacific Ocean is just a short distance away, allowing guests to explore the beautiful Moss Landing area. Popular activities such as offshore fishing, surfing, windsurfing, and horseback riding are available nearby, and the beach is a perfect spot for picnics with its protected dunes.

Big Sur Lodge is a charming lodging institution nestled in the heart of the stunning Big Sur, California. Surrounded by majestic redwoods and breathtaking coastal views, this cozy lodge offers a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The lodge's rustic cabins and comfortable rooms provide a comfortable stay for guests looking to explore the nearby hiking trails, beaches, and iconic attractions of Big Sur. With its prime location on California Highway 1, Big Sur Lodge is the perfect base for exploring the rugged beauty of the Central Coast.

Kirk Creek Campground is a picturesque oceanside paradise located in Big Sur, California. Situated on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, each campsite offers stunning views of the coastline. The campground is perfect for both tent and RV camping, with spacious sites equipped with tables, campfire rings, and grills. Vault toilets are available throughout the campground. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking on scenic trails in the Los Padres National Forest, exploring the nearby Nacimiento Road, and relaxing on the rocky beach just a short walk away. For those looking to venture further, Sand Dollar Beach, the largest sandy beach in Big Sur, is just a five-mile drive away.

Welcome to Beach Bungalow Inn & Suites, a charming lodging located just minutes away from the beach in Morro Bay, California. Our boutique guest rooms and suites offer a cozy and comfortable stay for savvy travelers looking to explore the beauty of the area. Nestled in Old Town Morro Bay, our inn offers easy access to hiking trails, pristine beaches, wildlife sightings, boat tours, dining options, and entertainment venues. Each of our guest rooms is uniquely designed with homey and understated charms, including fireplaces and updated bathrooms.

The Shell Beach Inn is a charming lodging located at 653 Shell Beach Road in Pismo Beach, California, just a short walk from the Pacific Ocean. Guests can enjoy stunning sunsets and beautiful scenery from a nearby park and gazebo overlooking the ocean. The area is perfect for observing coastal wildlife such as sea otters, seals, dolphins, and whales. There is a stairway leading to a secluded beach with tide pools and rock caves for exploration. The surrounding area offers activities such as drive-on sand dunes, surfing, kayaking, hiking, and antique shopping. The newly revitalized Shell Beach downtown is within walking distance, with several local restaurants and a paved bike path.

Oceano Campground is a picturesque outdoor retreat located in the beautiful coastal town of Oceano, California. Situated at 494 Air Park Drive, this campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities for visitors to enjoy. Guests can choose from a variety of lodging options, including tent and RV sites, as well as cozy cabins for those looking for a more comfortable stay. The campground also features picnic areas, hiking trails, and recreational facilities for guests to explore and enjoy.

The Golden Gate National Recreation Area - Lands End is a breathtaking tourist attraction located in San Francisco, California, United States. This stunning natural reserve offers visitors a chance to explore rugged cliffs, scenic coastal views, and historic landmarks. With miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife watching, this institution is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the California coastline at the Golden Gate National Recreation Area - Lands End.

Gray Whale Cove State Beach, also known as Devil's Slide, is a picturesque tourist attraction located in Half Moon Bay, California, United States. The beach features a sheltered cove surrounded by cliffs that drop abruptly into the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views and opportunities to see migrating gray whales up close. Visitors can access the beach via a steep trail from the parking lot on the east side of Highway 1. Please note that camping is not available at this park and online reservations are not accepted. However, guided hikes and public programs can be scheduled through the Parks Events page. Additionally, California State Parks Backpacking Adventures offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer.

J V Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a stunning coastal park located at 200 Nevada Avenue in Moss Beach, California, United States. This beautiful reserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore tide pools, sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and stunning ocean views. The park is home to a diverse array of marine life, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families looking to enjoy a day by the sea. With its picturesque scenery and abundant wildlife, J V Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the California coast.

Pedro Point is a charming tourist attraction located in Pacifica, California, United States. This institution offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich history of the area. From stunning coastal views to historical landmarks, Pedro Point has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, go for a hike, or learn about the local culture, Pedro Point is the perfect destination for a memorable experience. Come and explore all that this hidden gem has to offer in beautiful Pacifica, California.

Battery Davis is a historical site located on Sunset Trail in San Francisco, California, United States. Situated on the 200ft high bluffs of Fort Funston, Battery Davis offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can enjoy accessible hiking, horseback riding, and dog walking on the network of trails surrounding the battery. The sand dunes at Battery Davis are home to unique plant species that have adapted to the harsh conditions of the constantly shifting landscape. The area is also a nesting site for bank swallows, a threatened species in California. Visitors can observe these birds digging holes in the sandstone cliffs and raising their young between March and June.

The Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Alameda, California, United States. Open from 5am to 10pm, the sanctuary offers a serene environment for visitors to enjoy nature and wildlife. With a parking fee of $5 per vehicle, the sanctuary features wheelchair accessible facilities, beach wheelchairs for rent, and picnic areas. The Doug Siden Visitor Center at Crab Cove showcases exhibits and aquaria highlighting the flora and fauna of San Francisco Bay. The sanctuary is home to various aquatic birds and salt marsh creatures, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts. With its rich history and beautiful surroundings, the Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of the Bay Area.

The California Trail Visitor Center is a unique institution located at 9777 Golf Links Road in Oakland, California. As a zoo, it offers visitors the opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife and habitats of California. From the rugged coastline to the towering redwoods, visitors can learn about the native animals and plants that call this state home. The center also provides educational programs and interactive exhibits to engage visitors of all ages. Come and experience the beauty and wonder of California's natural world at the California Trail Visitor Center.

The Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center is a charming park and tourist attraction located at 4901 Breakwater Avenue in Hayward, California, United States. This center offers visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful Hayward shoreline and learn about the local wildlife, habitats, and conservation efforts. With interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs, visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area while gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving our environment. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature walk or an educational experience, the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Located in Moss Landing, California, Elkhorn Slough Safari offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Guests can embark on a relaxing cruise through the stunning wetlands, where they can observe playful Sea Otters, Seals, and a variety of bird species up close. With a team of experienced Captains and Naturalists, visitors can learn about the diverse ecosystem and wildlife that call Elkhorn Slough home. Whether you are a local or a tourist, Elkhorn Slough Safari has been a trusted guide for over 30 years. Don't miss the opportunity to escape into California's most spectacular wetland with Elkhorn Slough Safari. Check-in at their Gift Shop at 7981 Moss Landing Rd. Ste. E before departing from "A" Dock in the Moss Landing South Harbor.

Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on the Bluff Trail in Cambria, California, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore pristine coastal landscapes, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. With miles of hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere, Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, this preserve has something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss the chance to experience the natural beauty of the Central Coast at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve.

The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center is a park located at 1065 Guadalupe Street in Guadalupe, California, United States. This institution serves as a hub for education and conservation efforts focused on the unique ecosystem of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes. Visitors can explore exhibits, participate in educational programs, and learn about the plants, animals, and cultural history of this important coastal area. The center also offers guided tours and opportunities for hands-on learning experiences, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the natural world.

The Andrée Clark Bird Refuge is a 42-acre open space park located at 34a Los Patos Way in Santa Barbara, California. The park features a 29-acre lake and an estuary with brackish wetlands, providing a safe haven for migratory and local birds. Visitors can enjoy passive recreational activities such as bird watching, hiking, and biking on the multi-modal path that surrounds the lake. The park also offers interpretive self-guided tours and outdoor fitness equipment at the adjacent Stretch Station. The Bird Refuge is home to over 200 species of birds, as well as native and non-native turtles. The park's eastern and southern perimeter includes a Class I bike path that extends to Shoreline Park, offering stunning views of the ocean and Harbor. Three viewing platforms along the northern shore provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.

The Santa Barbara Harbor Walk is a picturesque park located at 132 Harbor Way in Santa Barbara, California. This beautiful waterfront park offers stunning views of the harbor and surrounding coastline, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. Visitors can enjoy the fresh ocean breeze, watch boats coming in and out of the harbor, and even catch a glimpse of some local wildlife. With its serene atmosphere and convenient location, the Santa Barbara Harbor Walk is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the California coast.

Temescal Canyon Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in Los Angeles, California. This stunning park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and lush hiking trails, Temescal Canyon Park is the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking to explore the scenic surroundings, enjoy a picnic with loved ones, or simply unwind in a serene setting, this park has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this hidden gem on the iconic Pacific Coast Highway.

The San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center is a park located at 2710 Manchester Avenue in Encinitas, California. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore the beauty and diversity of the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve. With interactive exhibits, educational programs, and guided nature walks, visitors can learn about the flora and fauna that call this coastal wetland home. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, the San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center is the perfect destination for outdoor exploration and environmental education.

Ocean Beach Tide Pools is a natural wonder located at 1779 Ocean Front Street in San Diego, California. This park and tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to explore and discover the fascinating marine life that inhabits the tide pools along the coastline. Visitors can observe colorful sea anemones, scurrying hermit crabs, and maybe even spot a playful sea lion or two. The breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean make this a perfect spot for nature lovers and families alike to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure and education. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the tide pools at Ocean Beach Tide Pools.