Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery

Visit the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery and see some of nature's largest and most fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Located on California's Central Coast at the southern end of Big Sur on California Highway 1, this natural colony includes more than 17,000 elephant seals, which gather seasonally to safely avoid predators and frolic playfully with their pups. If you come from mid-December through February, you may be lucky enough to see a pup being born!

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Activities

Wildlife Viewing

Scenic Ocean Views

Learning Opportunities

FAQ

How has the Elephant Seal population grown over the years?
In 1990, only around two dozen elephant seals frequented the beach just south of the Piedras Blancas Light Station. For reasons experts haven't been able to explain, the migration pattern has grown substantially. In just one year the population climbed to 400. Today, approximately 17,000 seals call the beach home.
When is the best time to see the Elephant Seals?
While the rookery plays host to seals throughout the year, the population is highest during late October, January, and April. The Elephant Seal Boardwalk is an ideal venue for viewing the seals at a safe distance.