Conservation area in Seal Beach, California

The Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary is a popular tourist attraction located at 5669 Carpinteria Avenue in Carpinteria, California, United States. This sanctuary is dedicated to protecting and preserving the local seal population, offering visitors the opportunity to observe these fascinating marine mammals in their natural habitat. With educational exhibits, guided tours, and a commitment to conservation, the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary provides a unique and enriching experience for all who visit. Don't miss the chance to visit this special institution and learn more about these incredible creatures.

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.

Russian Gulch State Beach is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Jenner, California. Visitors can enjoy long sandy beaches, rugged headlands, natural arches, and secluded coves along the Sonoma Coast. The park spans 17 miles from Bodega Head to Vista Trail and offers a variety of activities such as beachcombing, fishing, picnicking, and hiking. Dogs are allowed on specified beaches within the park, including Marshall Gulch, Carmet Beach, and Russian Gulch. Equestrian riders can access the Bodega Dunes trail system through the back side of the campground. Horseback riding is permitted on certain areas of the beach, but dogs are not allowed in the dunes or on the beach.

Natural Bridges State Beach, located at 2531 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California, is a beautiful park and beach that offers stunning views of shore birds, migrating whales, seals, and otters. The park features public access tide pools where visitors can see sea stars, shore crabs, and other colorful ocean life during low tides. The park also includes a Monarch Grove where thousands of Monarch Butterflies overwinter, creating a "city in the trees" from late fall to winter. In addition to the natural beauty of the park, visitors can participate in guided hikes, backpacking adventures, and other public programs offered by California State Parks. The park also has a picnic area with tables, barbecues, and restroom facilities for day-use visitors. Please note that there is a $10 vehicle day-use fee to enter the park.

Welcome to Point Reyes Beach North, a breathtaking natural feature located in the heart of California's stunning coastal landscape. Nestled within the Point Reyes National Seashore, this pristine beach offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Known for its expansive sandy shores and dramatic ocean views, Point Reyes Beach North is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're here to enjoy a peaceful walk along the shoreline, capture the perfect photograph of the sun setting over the Pacific, or simply bask in the tranquility of the surroundings, Point Reyes Beach North promises an unforgettable experience. The area is home to diverse wildlife, including harbor seals and a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife watchers.

Welcome to Point Reyes Beach North Located in the picturesque area of Inverness, California, Point Reyes Beach North is a stunning natural feature within the renowned Point Reyes National Seashore. With approximately 80 miles (130 kilometers) of diverse shoreline, the area offers a unique blend of rocky tide pools and vast sandy stretches perfect for a scenic walk.

Welcome to Point Reyes Beach South Parking, your gateway to the breathtaking shores of Point Reyes National Seashore in Inverness, California. Conveniently located, our parking facility offers easy access to over 80 miles of stunning coastline, featuring a diverse array of beaches perfect for tidepooling, leisurely walks, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Before you embark on your adventure, please take a moment to familiarize yourself with important guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. While the beaches offer spectacular views and experiences, swimming and wading are not recommended due to cold ocean temperatures, which can drop to as low as 50°F (10°C), and potential hazards such as hypothermia, sneaker waves, and rip currents.

Welcome to Kehoe Beach at Point Reyes National Seashore Discover the natural beauty of Kehoe Beach, a stunning and serene natural feature located in Inverness, California, within the renowned Point Reyes National Seashore. This pristine beach offers an ideal escape for nature enthusiasts, families, and adventurers alike, boasting a diverse landscape that includes rocky tidepools and vast sandy expanses perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Welcome to Limantour Beach, a serene natural feature located within the breathtaking Point Reyes National Seashore, in Point Reyes Station, California. Spanning approximately 80 miles of stunning shoreline, Point Reyes offers a diverse array of beach experiences, from rocky tide pools to vast sandy stretches perfect for a leisurely walk. Before visiting, please check our Current Conditions page for any potential closures or advisories. While the beaches are a beautiful destination, not all are suitable for swimming or wading, particularly for young children, due to cold ocean temperatures averaging around 10°C (50°F). Visitors should also be mindful of natural hazards such as hypothermia, sneaker waves, and rip currents.

Welcome to Kehoe Beach Trailhead, a scenic gem nestled within the breathtaking Point Reyes National Seashore, located at Kehoe Beach Trail, Inverness, California 94937. This beautiful park offers a diverse shoreline stretching approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles), featuring both rocky tidepool areas and expansive sandy beaches perfect for leisurely walks. Before planning your visit, we recommend checking our Current Conditions page for any potential closures or advisories. While the beaches are inviting, please be aware that not all are suitable for swimming or wading, particularly for young children, due to ocean temperatures dipping as low as 10°C (50°F) and potential hazards like hypothermia, sneaker waves, and rip currents.

Welcome to Tomales Bay Boat-In Campground, your gateway to an unforgettable camping experience amidst the breathtaking beauty of California's Point Reyes National Seashore. Nestled along the scenic shores of Tomales Bay, our unique boat-in campground offers a serene and adventurous escape for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Experience the Adventure: Tomales Bay Boat-In Campground invites you to embark on a one-of-a-kind camping journey. Accessible only by boat, kayak, or canoe, our campground provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the bay. Spend your days exploring the tranquil waters, enjoying stunning vistas, and discovering the diverse wildlife that calls this area home.

Welcome to Piedras Blancas State Marine Conservation Area, a breathtaking natural sanctuary located in the picturesque coastal town of San Simeon, California. Nestled along the stunning central coast, this conservation area offers a serene escape into the wonders of marine life and coastal beauty. Spanning a diverse ecosystem, Piedras Blancas is dedicated to preserving the rich biodiversity of its marine environment, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Visitors can explore an array of scenic trails, offering panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the majestic Pacific Ocean. The area is renowned for its vibrant tide pools, teeming with fascinating marine creatures, and its pristine beaches that provide a tranquil setting for relaxation and exploration. Bird watchers will delight in the variety of seabirds that call this area home, while the occasional sighting of seals and sea lions adds to the allure of this coastal gem.

Welcome to Friends of the Elephant Seal Nestled along the breathtaking coastline of San Simeon, California, Friends of the Elephant Seal is a must-visit landmark and tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Located in the heart of the Central Coast, this unique destination offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic northern elephant seals in their natural habitat.

Welcome to Seal Rock Overlook, a breathtaking tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Del Monte Forest, California. Located at the picturesque address of Del Monte Forest, CA 93953, our overlook offers an unparalleled view of the stunning Pacific coastline and the enchanting wildlife that inhabits this pristine area. Seal Rock Overlook is a haven for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility amidst nature's splendor. As you stand on the overlook, you'll be captivated by the sight of playful seals basking on the rocks, the rhythmic crashing of waves against the shore, and the refreshing ocean breeze that invigorates the senses.

Welcome to Seals & Sea Lions, your ultimate destination for a captivating marine adventure in the heart of Monterey, California. Nestled along the stunning coastline of the Monterey Bay, our unique tourist attraction offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of seals and sea lions as you get up close and personal with these playful marine mammals in their natural habitat. At Seals & Sea Lions, we provide guided tours that showcase the vibrant marine life and breathtaking scenery of the Monterey Bay. Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about marine conservation and are eager to share fascinating insights about the behavior, habitats, and conservation efforts surrounding these incredible creatures.

Welcome to William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach, a serene natural escape located in the picturesque coastal town of San Simeon, California. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Hearst Castle, this beautiful beach offers a perfect blend of tranquility and breathtaking scenery. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shore, take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, or relax with a picnic in the designated areas. The beach is also a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching, with opportunities to see sea otters and harbor seals in their natural habitat. Conveniently located at 750 Hearst Castle Road, William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those looking to unwind in a peaceful setting. Whether you're planning a day trip or a stop along your coastal journey, this charming beach promises an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Welcome to Sea Lion Resting Area, a serene getaway nestled in the picturesque Bertsch-Oceanview, California. Located at the heart of the stunning Northern California coastline, our unique establishment offers a tranquil environment where the beauty of nature meets the comfort of modern amenities. At Sea Lion Resting Area, we are dedicated to providing a peaceful retreat for both locals and visitors alike. Our charming venue is perfect for those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you're stopping by to enjoy a leisurely afternoon or planning a weekend escape, you'll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere awaiting you.

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.

Point Reyes National Seashore, located in California, United States, is a stunning park and tourist attraction offering a diverse range of landscapes and wildlife for visitors to explore. With over 1500 species of plants and animals, the Seashore is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Visitors can witness the beauty of the ocean crashing against rocky headlands, expansive sand beaches, open grasslands, brushy hillsides, and forested ridges. The area has been home to various cultures over thousands of years, preserving a rich tapestry of stories and interactions.

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.

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.

Año Nuevo State Park, located in California, United States, is a park known for its elephant seal viewing experience. From April to November, visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour to see up to 10,000 elephant seals returning to breed, give birth, and molt their skin on the scenic dunes and beaches. No tours or reservations are needed during this time, as visitors can walk out to the viewing areas on the Año Point Trail. Docents are available at each viewing area to provide information and answer questions. A free permit is required to visit the seals, which can be obtained at the park from 8:30-3:30 daily. The park also features the Marine Education Center, housed in a historic dairy ranch, and offers a variety of natural and cultural resources for visitors to explore. The terrain of Año Nuevo includes coastal terrace prairie, wetland marshes, dune fields, and coastal scrub, hosting a diverse range of plants and animals, including rare species like the San Francisco Garter Snake and California Red-legged Frog. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching along the ocean bluffs, with Año Nuevo Point being a major bird migratory route. Additionally, the park offers Equal Access Tours for visitors requiring mobility assistance.

Garrapata State Park is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 34500 California 1, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, United States. The park features two miles of beachfront, coastal hiking trails, and a 50-foot climb to a beautiful view of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Visitors can explore diverse coastal vegetation, dense redwood groves, and outstanding coastal headlands at Soberanes Point. The park is home to sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, and California gray whales during their yearly migration. Dogs are allowed on the beach at Gate 19 and trails leading to it, but not in all other areas of the park. Online reservations are not available for Garrapata State Park. The weather can be changeable, so layered clothing is advised. The Soberanes Canyon Trail is currently open, but the Rocky Ridge Trail is closed due to hazardous conditions.

Discover Arena-Stornetta at the California Coastal National Monument Welcome to Arena-Stornetta, a breathtaking part of the California Coastal National Monument located at 45500 Lighthouse Road, Point Arena, California. As an official site of the United States government, Arena-Stornetta offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife along California's iconic coastline.

Welcome to the Salmon Creek Ranger Station, your gateway to the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoma Coast State Park. Located at 3088-4214 Shoreline Highway in Bodega Bay, California, our station is ideally situated between the South Salmon Beach and North Salmon Beach parking lots off Highway 1. Here at Salmon Creek Ranger Station, we invite you to explore the stunning natural landscapes that make this area one of California's most scenic attractions. The Sonoma Coast is renowned for its long sandy beaches, rugged headlands, and craggy coastlines with natural arches and secluded coves. Whether you're a beachcomber, fisherman, sunbather, or picnicker, you'll find numerous access points along the coast to enjoy these pristine environments. Our day-use areas are open to the public, and bathrooms are available at most locations. In some areas, please be prepared to pack it in and pack it out to help preserve the natural beauty.

Welcome to Sea Lion Overlook, a serene park nestled in the heart of Inverness, California, at 16375 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. Situated within the breathtaking landscapes of Point Reyes National Seashore, our park offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich diversity of wildlife and natural beauty that this unique region has to offer. At Sea Lion Overlook, nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike can experience the wonders of the wild. From December through March, witness the fascinating behavior of elephant seals at the nearby Elephant Seal Overlook, where these majestic marine mammals gather to breed and raise their young. Listen to the distinctive calls of the seals and observe their interactions in their natural habitat.

Welcome to Chimney Rock Trail Head, a breathtaking natural park located at the eastern spur of the Point Reyes Headlands in Inverness, California. Nestled within the stunning Point Reyes National Seashore, Chimney Rock is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Explore the captivating 1.75-mile (2.8-km) round-trip Chimney Rock Trail, which meanders along the ridge crest of a narrow peninsula. This trail offers unparalleled views of Drakes Bay and the dramatic coastline stretching to the southeast. Along your journey, you may encounter the region's diverse wildlife, including the majestic elephant seals and a variety of bird species. During spring, the area comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, creating a picturesque landscape.

Welcome to Cypress Grove & Sea Lion Point Parking Lot Located at 62 Point Lobos, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, the Cypress Grove & Sea Lion Point Parking Lot serves as your gateway to the breathtaking beauty of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, often hailed as "The crown jewel of the California State Park System." This convenient parking facility is situated just three miles south of Carmel on Highway 1, making it an ideal starting point for your exploration of this iconic reserve.

Welcome to Point Lobos Scenic View, your gateway to nature's masterpiece nestled in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Located at the breathtaking address of Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923, our business offers an unparalleled experience of the stunning vistas and natural beauty that define the iconic Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. At Point Lobos Scenic View, we pride ourselves on providing visitors with an unforgettable journey through one of California's most picturesque landscapes. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, our location offers panoramic views of rugged coastlines, vibrant marine life, and diverse flora and fauna.

Welcome to Gate 1 - Garrapata State Park, a stunning natural retreat located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Nestled along the iconic Highway 1, just 6.7 miles south of Rio Road and 18 miles north of Big Sur, our park offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Garrapata State Park boasts two miles of breathtaking beachfront, perfect for coastal hiking and exploring. A 50-foot climb rewards visitors with a mesmerizing view of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a federally protected marine area teeming with wildlife. Discover diverse coastal vegetation as you traverse trails that lead from sandy shores into dense redwood groves. The park's Soberanes Point features magnificent coastal headlands, where sea lions, harbor seals, and sea otters can be spotted frolicking in the waters, while California gray whales grace us with their presence during their annual migration.