Known as the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Colony (named after the nearby Piedras Blancas Lighthouse), this stretch of beach serves as a breeding, nursing, and molting ground for northern elephant seals.
As part of a marine-protected area, access to the beach is prohibited. However, a viewing trail has been constructed that runs the length of beach and provides ample viewing of the wildlife from a safe distance.
The number of seals visible on the beach depends largely on the time of year, with fall and winter providing the best viewing opportunities. Multiple placards along the path provide little-known facts and typical behaviors to observe.
The photos alone don't do experience justice. The seals are much larger than they appear and the behaviors that they engage in are quite entertaining, such as the way they constantly flip sand over their bodies with their fins. There's a multitude of different vocalizations (growling, howling, barking, clicking), and the huge males are constantly fending over their respective harems--often barreling over females and pups in order to ward off other males!
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| There are constant reminders along the trail not to disturb any of the wildlife |
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| The faint white speck on the horizon is the Piedras Blancas lighthouse in the distance |
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| A brave seagull nests near this group |
The colony at Piedras Blancas provides a unique opportunity to observe such a fascinating creature up close. It's insightful, easily accessible, and there are even guides (known as Friends of the Elephant Seals) that wear blue jackets and provide free tours and information. The only caveat is that for as busy of a tourist destination as it is, there are no public restrooms, so plan accordingly.
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