Protect marine habitats in Seal Beach, California

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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 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 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.