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Looking for a free activity along your Pacific Coast Highway Roadtrip? Stop at Elephant Seal Vista Point in San Simeon!
San Simeon, CA
Monday:
Open 24 hours
Tuesday:
Open 24 hours
Wednesday:
Open 24 hours
Thursday:
Open 24 hours
Friday:
Open 24 hours
Saturday:
Open 24 hours
Sunday:
Open 24 hours
The Piedras Blancas Rookery in Central California is a unique opportunity to easily observe elephant seals in the wild for free! The viewing point is located seven miles north of San Simeon, home to Hearts Castle. It is the perfect spot to stretch your legs and take in nature along your Pacific Coast Highway Roadtrip!
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The elephant seals are usually able to be seen year round.
San Simeon, CA
Monday:
Open 24 hours
Tuesday:
Open 24 hours
Wednesday:
Open 24 hours
Thursday:
Open 24 hours
Friday:
Open 24 hours
Saturday:
Open 24 hours
Sunday:
Open 24 hours
The viewpoint is open year round, with peak time to see the elephant seals between October and April. Depending on the time of year you visit, you can see the elephant seals in different stages.
ccoverseas
Elephant seals go through four main phases throughout the year. Swipe up for more details!
San Simeon, CA
Monday:
Open 24 hours
Tuesday:
Open 24 hours
Wednesday:
Open 24 hours
Thursday:
Open 24 hours
Friday:
Open 24 hours
Saturday:
Open 24 hours
Sunday:
Open 24 hours
The four stages consist of: 1- Males fight for Mating Rights (November - January) 2- Breeding and Birthing (December - March) 3- Molting (April - August) 4- Fall “Haul-Out” (September - November) During peak season, there are plenty of elephant seals sun bathing on the sand. If you’re coming during off season, you might want to pack some binoculars to get a closer look.
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There is plenty of signage around the vista to teach you more about these magnificent creatures!
San Simeon, CA
Monday:
Open 24 hours
Tuesday:
Open 24 hours
Wednesday:
Open 24 hours
Thursday:
Open 24 hours
Friday:
Open 24 hours
Saturday:
Open 24 hours
Sunday:
Open 24 hours
When exploring the vista point, there are numerous signs and bulletins that will teach you all about the elephant seals. During peak season, you might also encounter volunteers from “Friends of the Elephant Seal.” They are always so friendly and willing to answer any questions you might have about these magnificent animals.
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Remember to always be respectful when viewing these magnificent wild animals in their natural habitat.
San Simeon, CA
Monday:
Open 24 hours
Tuesday:
Open 24 hours
Wednesday:
Open 24 hours
Thursday:
Open 24 hours
Friday:
Open 24 hours
Saturday:
Open 24 hours
Sunday:
Open 24 hours
Remember, the elephant seals are wild animals, so be sure to keep your distance and stay on the vista’s boardwalk. There is ample free parking with enough space for small camper vans as well. Looking for other affordable activities in the area? Check out Piedras Blancas Light House, just north of the rookery. Tours are offered for $10 every Tuesday and Saturday morning. Just south of the elephant seals is Hearst Castle. A cost effective and time saving option compared to one of their traditional tours is to visit their free museum on site. Stop for a quick bite to eat and peruse their gift shop as well! Enjoy!