California’s Ano Nuevo State Park is a wildlife sanctuary where over 10,000 elephant seals return to breed and raise their young each December through March. California sea lions, otters, terns, cormorants and coyotes are among the animals that make the park their home. Those who wish to view the elephant seals in their natural habitat should be prepared to hike up to four miles across varied terrain, as driving to their breeding site is not possible. Learn more about the park’s history, migratory and permanent residents at the on-site Marine Education Center, located inside a historic dairy ranch from the 1800’s. Nearby are the remains of a 19th century lighthouse and keeper’s headquarters.

1 New Years Creek Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060, Phone: 650-879-2025

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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