The 30 Best Natural attractions in Seal Beach, California

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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.

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.

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.

Crescent Beach Overlook is a popular landmark and tourist attraction located in Crescent City, California, United States. Offering stunning panoramic views of the crescent-shaped beach and the Pacific Ocean, this overlook is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, watch the waves crashing against the cliffs, and spot wildlife such as seals and sea birds. The Crescent Beach Overlook is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and take in the natural beauty of the Northern California coastline.

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.

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.

MacKerricher Beach, located in Fort Bragg, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction offering a variety of habitats including beach, bluff, headland, dune, forest, and wetland. Visitors can explore tide pools, spot seals off the coastline, and observe over 90 species of birds near Cleone Lake. The park is also a great spot for whale watching during winter and spring. Hikers, joggers, equestrians, and bicyclists will enjoy the park's trails, including a wheelchair accessible nature trail. The park's unique history includes being part of the Mendocino Indian Reservation and the Union Lumber Company's timber and shipping operations. Accessibility improvements are ongoing, with facilities like a beach wheelchair available for use. Educational field trips are offered for school groups, and reservations can be made in advance. Visitors can also reserve campsites and lodging in advance. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes and wildlife at MacKerricher Beach.

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 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 Gum Grove Nature Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Seal Beach, California. Located at 211 8th Street, our beautiful park offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As a beloved local treasure and popular tourist attraction, Gum Grove Nature Park boasts a lush, natural landscape that is perfect for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to unwind in a peaceful setting. Spanning several acres, the park features scenic walking trails that meander through groves of eucalyptus trees, providing a delightful backdrop for leisurely strolls, birdwatching, and photography. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Seal Beach, you'll find Gum Grove Nature Park to be an ideal spot for picnics, outdoor activities, or simply enjoying the beauty of Southern California's diverse flora and fauna.

Welcome to the Seal Beach Municipal Pier, a cherished landmark and premier tourist attraction located in the picturesque coastal town of Seal Beach, California. Situated at the heart of this charming seaside community, the Seal Beach Municipal Pier offers stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, breathtaking sunsets, and memorable photo opportunities. As one of the longest wooden piers in California, the Seal Beach Municipal Pier invites visitors to experience the serene beauty of the ocean while enjoying a variety of activities. Whether you're an avid fisherman casting your line into the abundant waters below, a nature enthusiast spotting local marine life, or simply someone seeking a peaceful retreat by the sea, our pier provides a welcoming escape for all.

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.

Mahé is a vibrant and welcoming bar, food, and restaurant located at 1400 Pacific Coast Highway in Seal Beach, California. Founded by three friends who are passionate about delicious food, top-notch service, and building strong relationships with their customers, Mahé offers a casual and cool atmosphere for guests to enjoy. With live music and talented chefs, the restaurant exudes a festive family vibe. The menu at Mahé is diverse and caters to all tastes, featuring high-quality steaks, fresh seafood, and creative sushi rolls crafted by skilled chefs. Whether you're looking for a hearty meal or a unique dining experience, Mahé is the perfect spot to enjoy great food and good company.

Eisenhower Park, located on Main Street in Seal Beach, California, is a popular tourist attraction that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This expansive park features lush greenery, walking paths, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day outdoors, take a leisurely stroll, or have a peaceful picnic with family and friends. With its tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Eisenhower Park is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

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.

Located in Historic Pescadero on California’s scenic San Mateo Coast, Pescadero Creek Inn offers a serene and tranquil country setting to escape life’s hectic pace. Whether it is a hike through towering redwoods or a stroll on a deserted white sand beach, Pescadero will soothe your soul. Midway between Santa Cruz and San Francisco, it is a wonderful trip down Pacific Coast Highway. Relax in front of a beautiful stone fireplace in the century-old farmhouse or nap in a hammock by the side of Pescadero Creek. Enjoy the spacious decks overlooking the creek and listen to the water go by, and with it goes your cares and worries. Redwoods are a bicycle ride away, while Pigeon Point Lighthouse, elephant seals at Año Nuevo, or walks on long deserted white sand beaches are a short drive. Golfing, horseback riding, wine tasting, whale watching, and fishing may all be found nearby.

The Bluebird Inn in Cambria, California is a cozy and inviting lodging option located at 1880 Main Street. This charming inn is surrounded by the natural beauty of Cambria, known for its majestic Monterey Pines, pristine beaches, and abundant sea life. Guests can easily visit nearby attractions such as Hearst Castle, Moonstone Beach, and the Elephant Seal Rookery. The Bluebird Inn offers a variety of well-appointed guestrooms, each featuring comfortable amenities such as pillow-top mattresses, remodeled bathrooms, and in-room coffee makers. Guests can relax in the creekside gardens, enjoy the outdoor fire pit, or explore the nearby shops, wineries, and museums that Cambria has to offer.

Hotel Avisa is a charming accommodation located at 590 Morro Avenue in Morro Bay, California. Situated on the Central Coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles, this hotel offers guests a chance to discover the natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities of the area. From ocean-side golf to sailing to kite flying, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The thriving museum and arts scenes in Morro Bay provide an opportunity to learn about the area's culture, history, and scientific significance. Explore downtown Morro Bay's antique and thrift stores to find hidden treasures, or indulge in the freshest ocean-to-table cuisine made from locally caught seafood. Hotel Avisa offers upscale amenities and top-notch services to ensure a spectacular stay for guests. The newly renovated rooms feature modern and chic décor, with many overlooking the Pacific Ocean and offering breathtaking views of Morro Rock. The hotel also boasts a well-equipped fitness center and other amenities for guest convenience. Whether visiting for a family vacation, romantic getaway, or business trip, Hotel Avisa is a haven of hospitality.

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.

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 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 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.