Ano Nuevo Point Trail

The Ano Nuevo Point Trail leads visitors to the largest mainland elephant seal rookery in the world, hosting over 10,000 seals during the December through March breeding season. This out-and-back route winds through coastal scrub and dune habitat before arriving at the rugged point where massive elephant seals haul out to give birth, nurse pups, and engage in dramatic battles for dominance. Guided docent tours are required during peak breeding season from December through March, making advance reservations essential. The trail surface is a mix of packed dirt and sandy boardwalk sections that protect sensitive dune vegetation. Outside of breeding season, visitors can explore the area on self-guided walks to observe seals in their non-breeding phase. The surrounding habitat also supports an abundance of shorebirds, raptors, and coastal plant communities including native lupine and coastal buckwheat. On clear days, views extend across Monterey Bay to the Santa Cruz Mountains. The park sits at the tip of the San Mateo County coast, offering a remote and wild experience just 55 miles south of San Francisco. Wildlife photographers will find extraordinary opportunities throughout the year as elephant seals are present in some number during all seasons.