It’s peak elephant seal season in the Bay Area! With the end of winter approaching, we have reached baby season for elephant seals. They hang around the Bay year-round, but there’s no better time to visit your local beach dwellers. The Bay Area is full of hidden gems, but be sure to stop by these spots to see the locals.
With seal viewing from 8:30-3:30 every day, Año Nuevo offers a perfect getaway for the whole family. Starting in mid-December, elephant seals make their new homes on the beach and give birth to their pups. With over three miles of beach, you’re sure to see thousands of seals! Seals can be seen from every point along the beach, but if you plan to hike the entire trail, be prepared for 2.5 hours of moderate activity.
Want more information? By visiting between now and March 3, you’ll gain access to naturalist-led walks. The walk will span over three miles of beach and dunes, and will operate no matter the weather! Reservations can be made in advance by going here, and it is recommended to book ahead so you don’t miss any action!
If you’re looking for a less strenuous adventure, check out Point Reyes’ Elephant Seal Overlook. This overlook sits right above Drake’s Bay and allows for optimal elephant seal sightings for only a 10-minute walk. Because it is peak season, be sure to arrive early, as parking at Chimney Rock, the nearest lot, fills up quickly.
To optimize your viewing experience, make sure to pack a pair of binoculars. Seal viewings are possible without them, but a good pair or a camera with good zoom will let you get an up-close view of the seals, so you feel like you are truly among them.
More Helpful Articles
Millbrae Art and Wine Festival
For over 50 years, Millbrae has held one of the largest Labor Day weekend celebrations in the Bay Area. The Art and Wine Festival turns Millbrae’s downtown into a spectacular street fair with live music, a large selection of specialty beer and wine, and hand-crafted...
Beat the Heat
Summer is coming to an end, with Labor Day just around the corner. The end of August also means some of our hottest weather all year, but that doesn't mean we must stay inside all day. Beat the heat and continue enjoying the beautiful weather with these easy tips. ...
The Bay Area’s Trees
The Bay Area is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, from our famous Pacific beaches to forests that we can get lost in. What sets us apart more than anything is our trees. San Francisco alone is home to over 700 species of tree, and the Bay Area...
Recent Comments