Año Nuevo State Park: Guided Northern Elephant Seal Walks

About this adventure

Located along the windswept San Mateo County coast south of Pescadero, Año Nuevo State Park is home to one of the largest mainland breeding colonies of Northern Elephant Seals on Earth. Between December 15 and March 31, the Natural Preserve is accessible exclusively via fascinating, docent-led guided walks that bring families safely within steps of massive male bull seals, mother cows, and adorable newborn pups. The 2.5-hour tour covers an invigorating 3 to 4-mile guided walk across coastal prairie, rolling sand dunes, and wooden viewing boardwalks. Knowledgeable volunteer naturalists share captivating stories of the seals' miraculous recovery from near extinction and interpret behaviors like chest-slamming challenges and nursing calls. For safety, children under 4 are free (baby carriers required, as strollers cannot navigate sand dunes). Reserve tickets up to 56 days in advance on ReserveCalifornia.