Destination: Half Moon Bay,
California

The Northern Elephant Seal breeding season is always an exciting event! To visit Año Nuevo State Reserve during this season, you must be on a Guided Walk led by a trained naturalist. Walks begin December 15 and continue through March 31, rain or shine.

Northern Elephant Seals come ashore from early December through March to give birth and mate. Bull seals arrive from early December through early March to engage in battles for breeding access to the females. Pregnant females come ashore to pup from early December to late February. Mothers nurse their pups for about a month, before mating and departing back to the sea. Weaned pups remain behind to develop their swimming and feeding skills during March and April. Most of the adults have left by mid-March.

Call (650) 879-0227 for information on the reserve and toll free (800) 444-4445 for tickets between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, 7 days a week. Advance reservations are recommended for these popular walks. Tickets are only required from December 15 to April 1; other wise, the reserve is open. You may reserve tickets up to 8 weeks in advance or as late as 1 day before arrival. There are no refunds for cancellations, no shows, or late arrivals.

The 2.5-hour walk is 3 miles, round-trip, over sandy, unlevel terrain. The trail is muddy during wet weather. Be prepared for possible wind, rain, or bright sun. Wear layered clothing and sturdy clothes. Hooded rain gear is strongly advised. Cameras and binoculars are welcome.

No food or beverages are sold at the reserve, and there is no water along the trail. Eating, chewing gum, and smoking are prohibited on the walks.

Año Nuevo State Reserve is located on State Hwy 1, between Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay, about 2 hours south of San Francisco. Reserve signs are located on the highway from both directions. Pets cannot be brought into the reserve or parking lot.