Marine wildlife tours 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.

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.

Embark on a self-guided driving tour of the famous 17 Mile Drive in Pebble Beach, Monterey, California. Explore iconic landmarks like Lone Cypress, Seal Rock, and Spanish Bay as you drive past stunning coastal views. Learn about the history of Cannery Row, Monterey’s Aquarium, and Fisherman’s Wharf on the Pacific Grove segment of the tour. The drive starts at Del Monte and ends at Carmel-by-the-Sea, with an entrance fee of $10.50 per vehicle. Admission is complimentary for guests of select Pebble Beach Resorts. Discover shipwrecks, wildlife, and scenic viewpoints along the route, including the Lone Cypress tree perched on a rocky bluff. Allow around three hours to fully experience the beauty of the 17 Mile Drive, and be sure to stop at designated turnouts to enjoy the views. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a picturesque drive, the 17 Mile Drive Tour offers something for everyone.

Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge is a park and tourist attraction located at 800 Seal Beach Boulevard in Seal Beach, California, United States. This refuge protects a remnant of a vast wetland complex and serves as an important stopover point for migratory shorebirds along the Pacific Flyway. Visitors can see shorebirds and the occasional green sea turtle and light-footed Ridgway’s rail during monthly tours. The refuge is closed to the public except during special events and escorted tours held on the last Saturday of each month. Established in 1972, the purpose of the Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge is to protect and preserve valuable salt marsh habitat for migratory waterfowl and other wildlife in California. The refuge works to support and protect endangered species such as the light-footed Ridgway’s rail, California least tern, and Eastern Pacific green turtles. The refuge collaborates with others to conserve and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the benefit of the American people. Please note that the refuge does not guarantee accessibility compliance for websites linked to their page.

Seal Rock Beach is a picturesque park located in the Del Monte Forest of California, United States. This beautiful beach offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is home to a colony of seals, which can often be seen lounging on the rocks. Visitors can enjoy relaxing walks along the sandy shore, picnicking in the grassy areas, or exploring the tide pools teeming with marine life. Seal Rock Beach is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Seal Rock Creek Beach is a stunning tourist attraction located at 3105 17 Mile Drive in Del Monte Forest, California. This picturesque beach offers visitors a serene escape with its pristine sandy shores and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The highlight of Seal Rock Creek Beach is the opportunity to see adorable seals basking in the sun on the rocks along the shoreline. Whether you're looking to relax and soak up the sun or explore the tide pools teeming with marine life, Seal Rock Creek Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.

Seal View Beach Deck is a picturesque tourist attraction located in Cambria, California, United States. Perched along the stunning coastline, this deck offers visitors a prime vantage point to observe the adorable seals as they sunbathe and play on the nearby beach. With panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs, Seal View Beach Deck provides a peaceful and relaxing setting for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Whether you're looking to unwind and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Pacific Ocean or simply want to witness the playful antics of the local seal population, this attraction is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

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 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 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 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 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 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 Blue and White Seal Buoy Long Beach, a premier tourist attraction located in the heart of Long Beach, California. Nestled along the stunning Pacific coastline, our unique destination offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. At Blue and White Seal Buoy Long Beach, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant marine life and breathtaking ocean views that define the California coast. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler exploring the area, our attraction promises a perfect blend of adventure, education, and relaxation.

Welcome to "Floating Raft with Seals," a unique and enchanting experience located at the picturesque 1400 North Harbor Drive Kayak/Paddleboard Launch in Oceanside, California. Nestled along the stunning coastline, our park offers a one-of-a-kind adventure where you can get up close and personal with the charming seals that inhabit the area. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family looking for a fun outing, or simply someone seeking tranquility by the sea, our floating raft provides the perfect setting. As you relax on the raft, you'll have the opportunity to observe these playful marine mammals in their natural habitat, basking in the sun and frolicking in the water.

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.

The Natural Bridges Visitor Center, located at 2531 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California, is a travel agency that offers a variety of outdoor experiences for visitors to explore the beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The park and beach provide stunning views of shore birds, migrating whales, seals, otters, and tide pools filled with colorful marine life. The Monarch Grove at the park is a temporary home to thousands of Monarch Butterflies during the winter months, offering a unique opportunity to witness their annual migration. In addition to the natural wonders of the park, visitors can participate in guided hikes, backpacking trips, and educational programs offered by California State Parks Backpacking Adventures. The park also features a picnic area with tables, barbecues, and restroom facilities for day-use visitors. Fees for vehicle day-use apply, and alcohol is only permitted with a special-event permit.

Catalina Ocean Rafting offers exciting snorkeling and island eco tours aboard rigid hull inflatable power rafts. Located at 103 Pebbly Beach Road in Avalon, California, United States, this institution provides a unique and informative Island Adventure experience beyond the ordinary tour. With knowledgeable staff and crew who have expertise in geology and Indian lore, Catalina Ocean Rafting offers small, personal, and fun tours. Visitors can reserve Catalina Island Dolphin, Whale, and Snorkeling trips online or by calling 800-990-7238. The institution also offers Day Packages and combination packages with Package Partners for convenience. Overnight Packages on Catalina Island, including stays in luxury apartments with air conditioning units, are available with one of Avalon's finest hotels. The power inflatable boats provided by Catalina Ocean Rafting offer a close-up experience with local dolphins, as well as opportunities to see Bald Eagles, Harbor Seals, Sea Lions, and other island wildlife.

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.

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 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 Dana Wharf, located at 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, California. As the premier destination for whale watching and sportfishing in Orange County, we invite you to embark on unforgettable marine adventures with us. Our family-friendly excursions offer something for everyone, from thrilling whale and dolphin watching tours starting at just $32.68 to serene sunset cruises and exciting fishing trips. Experience the beauty of the sea with the true pioneers of the industry. Since 1971, Dana Wharf has been the leading name in whale watching, boasting over 4,000 five-star reviews. Join us for a chance to see majestic creatures like Gray whales, Humpback whales, and even the elusive Killer Whales up close. For a more intimate encounter, consider our private tours, where you can have the entire boat to yourself, guided by our expert marine life narrators.

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.