Diverse wildlife viewing in Seal Beach, California

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.

Pescadero State Beach is a stunning natural feature located along the beautiful coast of California, United States. This picturesque beach offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with its sandy shores, rolling waves, and dramatic cliffs. Whether you're looking to relax and soak up the sun, go for a swim, or explore the tide pools, Pescadero State Beach has something for everyone to enjoy. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this area home, including seabirds, seals, and even the occasional whale passing by. So come and experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Pescadero State Beach for yourself.

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 Drakes Beach, a stunning natural feature located within the breathtaking Point Reyes National Seashore in Point Reyes Station, California. With approximately 80 miles of diverse shoreline, our beaches offer a unique blend of rocky areas perfect for tidepooling and vast sandy stretches ideal for a leisurely walk. Before visiting, we recommend checking our Current Conditions page for any potential closures or advisories. Please be aware that not all beaches are suitable for swimming or wading, particularly for young children, due to cold ocean temperatures, which can reach as low as 50°F (10°C), and potential hazards like 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 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.

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 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.

Campbell Cove Beach is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Jenner, California, United States. This stunning beach offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. With its golden sands, gentle waves, and rocky cliffs, Campbell Cove Beach is the perfect spot for picnics, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse wildlife that can be spotted in the area, including seals, seabirds, and even the occasional whale. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with family and friends, Campbell Cove Beach is a must-visit destination on the California coast.

Bolinas Beach is a stunning natural feature located in California, United States. With its pristine sandy shores, crashing waves, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, this beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach is also known for its diverse wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and dolphins. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or seek adventure in the water, Bolinas Beach offers something for everyone to enjoy.

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 the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk Trailhead, a serene escape nestled in the picturesque town of Cambria, California. Located at the heart of the stunning Central Coast, this charming park offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility. As you embark on the boardwalk trail, you'll be greeted by breathtaking ocean views, rugged cliffs, and the soothing sounds of waves crashing against the shore. The Moonstone Beach Boardwalk Trailhead is an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat. The well-maintained boardwalk meanders along the coastline, providing easy access to explore the diverse marine life and unique rock formations that dot the beach. Keep an eye out for playful sea otters, seals, and a variety of seabirds that call this area home.

Welcome to Andrew Molera Beach, a stunning natural feature located in the heart of California's breathtaking Big Sur region. Nestled within the Andrew Molera State Park, this pristine beach offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the unspoiled beauty of California's rugged coastline. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Andrew Molera Beach provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable day by the ocean. With its expansive sandy shores and dramatic ocean views, the beach is ideal for a variety of activities, including hiking, bird watching, and beachcombing. The beach is accessible via a picturesque trail that winds through meadows and alongside the scenic Big Sur River, offering glimpses of the area's diverse flora and fauna. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the chance to spot local wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and a variety of bird species.

Welcome to Launcher Beach, a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque town of Trinidad, California. Located at Trinidad, CA 95570, Launcher Beach offers a tranquil escape for both locals and visitors seeking a serene coastal retreat. As a premier tourist attraction, this beautiful beach is renowned for its breathtaking views, pristine sandy shores, and the soothing sounds of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're here to relax, explore, or capture stunning photographs, Launcher Beach provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable experience. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, search for unique seashells, or simply unwind while basking in the sun. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse marine life and the opportunity to spot seals, sea lions, and various seabirds in their natural habitat.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Bird Island Lookout Discover the natural beauty and wildlife of the California coast at Bird Island Lookout, located on the picturesque Bird Island Trail in Carmel-by-the-Sea. This scenic 0.8-mile round trip trail offers a unique experience through diverse habitats, including pine forests, coastal scrub, and rocky shores, culminating in breathtaking views of Bird Island and China Cove.

Welcome to River's End Park, your serene escape nestled in the charming coastal town of Seal Beach, California. Located at 15 1st Street, our park offers a tranquil oasis where the river meets the sea, providing visitors with breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. River's End Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a relaxing day outdoors. With lush green spaces, picnic areas, and scenic walking paths, our park invites you to unwind and connect with nature. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or simply sitting by the water's edge, you'll find plenty of opportunities to bask in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

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.

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.

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 the Piedras Blancas Light Station Association, a beacon of history and natural beauty located along the stunning California coastline. Nestled at 15950 California Highway 1 in San Simeon, our association is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich maritime heritage of the Piedras Blancas Light Station. Established in the late 19th century, this iconic lighthouse has guided countless seafarers with its powerful light and stands as a testament to the area's vibrant history. Today, the Piedras Blancas Light Station Association offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore this historic landmark and its breathtaking surroundings.

Welcome to Gum Grove Park, a serene oasis nestled in the charming community of Seal Beach, California. Located at the intersection of Avalon Drive and Crescent View, this picturesque park offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Spanning over 10 acres, Gum Grove Park is a beloved tourist attraction known for its lush greenery, tranquil walking trails, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through the park's well-maintained pathways, which wind through a diverse landscape of native plants and towering eucalyptus trees. Birdwatchers will delight in the variety of avian species that call the park home, making it a popular spot for photography and nature observation.

Welcome to Los Cerritos Wetlands, a captivating natural oasis nestled in the heart of Seal Beach, California. Located at 6720 Pacific Coast Highway, our park serves as a serene escape and a must-visit tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Spanning a vast area of preserved wetlands, Los Cerritos offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems and witness the rich biodiversity of Southern California. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of our walking trails, where you can observe a wide variety of wildlife, including native birds, plants, and other fascinating species. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a nature photographer, or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful day outdoors, Los Cerritos Wetlands provides the perfect setting.

Welcome to Gate 7 - Garrapata State Park Located in the picturesque Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, Garrapata State Park offers visitors a breathtaking gateway to the natural beauty of the Big Sur coast. Situated just 6.7 miles south of Rio Road in Carmel and 18 miles north of Big Sur, the park is easily accessible via Highway 1. Visitors should be mindful of travel delays due to a new traffic signal managing one-lane alternating traffic.

Welcome to Gate 9 - Garrapata State Park Nestled along the iconic Highway 1, just 6.7 miles south of Rio Road in Carmel and 18 miles north of Big Sur, Gate 9 - Garrapata State Park offers a breathtaking escape into nature's grandeur. Located in the picturesque Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, our park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.