Pacific Coast Highway "State Route 1" Road Trip Stop – Piedras Blancas Rookery. San Simeon, CA.
- Greg "Star"
- Jan 22, 2024
- 5 min read
Pacific Coast Highway is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful highways on the planet. This coastline road trip should be on everyone's lifetime bucket-list. Home to Northern Elephant Seals, this coastal region has become a maternity ward as these majestic creatures bring new life into the world. Join us in exploring the enchanting experience of witnessing seal births
At the center of this drive is the Piedras Blancas Rookery, where the rugged California coastline becomes home to the second largest seals in the world. I suggest making the Friends of the Elephant Seals Visitor Center your first stop to get the latest information about the seals and the best spots to view them along with some unique merchandise.
Hundreds of thousands of northern elephant seals once inhabited the Pacific Ocean. They were hunted in the 1800s for the oil from their blubber. By 1892, only 50 to 100 individuals were left. Thanks to conservation efforts, populations are now between 150,000 and 200,000.
In the ocean, elephant seals generally dive 20 minutes to depths between1,000 and 3,000 feet in search of food: rays, skates, rat fish, squid, shellfish, krill, small sharks and algae are some of their favorite food. According to the California Department of Parks and Recreation, the maximum recorded depth is 5,692 feet. Females live an average of 20 years and males average only about 14 years. They are preyed upon by killer whales and larger sharks.
My favorite time to visit is between mid-December and the beginning of February. This provides the best chance to see a seal giving birth and see many newborn pups. The sight of mother seals nurturing their newborn pups is absolutely heart-warming, however heart-breaking scenes of the struggles of survival may be witnessed. Females eat nothing while they are giving birth, nursing, and mating, and the males go without food for up to three months at that time as well. Friendly and knowledgeable volunteer guides answer questions into seal behaviors, making it an educational and unforgettable experience for everyone.
Photography Opportunities
There are two locations that offer excellent photo opportunities. One is just south of San Simeon on the PCH highway and gives a beautiful scenic view of the coastline. The second one is north of the Friends of the Elephants Visitors Center at the Elephant Seal Vista Point. There is a parking lot there. Surprisingly, you don't need a long telephoto lens to get close up pictures. The viewing area on the boardwalk allows you to get as close as 30-40 feet in some spots. For the two photographs of the seals above I used a Nikon Z7-II with a100-300 telephoto lens. We also used an iPhone 14 and were able to get some fantastic shots.
The best time to get shots will be in the early part of the day. Getting there when the sun is west of the beach will give you silhouettes, making it difficult to get good colors on the photographs.
Wildlife
In addition to the elephant seals,
Sea Lions and Harbor Seals: Along with elephant seals, you may spot California sea lions and harbor seals along the coast. They often rest on the rocks.
Sea Otters: In kelp-rich areas, particularly around San Simeon Bay, you might be lucky enough to observe sea otters. Often seen floating on their backs in the kelp.
Whales: The San Simeon coast is frequented by whales, including gray whales, humpback whales, and blue whales. Whale watching is a popular activity, especially during migration seasons.
Birds: The rocky shores attract a variety of seabirds. Look for turkey vultures, pelicans, cormorants, gulls and other shorebirds. The region is also known for its bird migrations.
Flora
Coastal Sage Scrub: The San Simeon coast is characterized by coastal sage scrub, a plant community dominated by aromatic shrubs like sagebrush. These plants are well-adapted to the coastal environment.
Monterey Cypress Trees: Along the cliffs and bluffs, you'll find Monterey cypress trees. Their distinctive shape adds to the scenic beauty of the coastline.
Kelp Forests: In the nearshore waters, kelp forests thrive. Giant kelp provides a vital habitat for a variety of marine life, including fish and invertebrates.
Wildflowers: Spring is the best time to view the coastal wildflowers. Look for blooms of California poppies, lupines, and other coastal plants.
Cautions - The Friends of the Elephant Seals advises to
• Park in the designated parking area.
Remain on the viewing walkways. The dunes and other bluff areas outside the fences or ropes are home to native plants and animals.
Elephant seals are protected by federal law. It is illegal to touch or throw things or cause a reaction from any marine mammal.
Watch quietly and keep your voice down. The seals can hear and see you and may be stressed by loud noises.
If you witness someone harassing a marine mammal, please call 1-805-927-2068.
Keep dogs on a leash and well away from the seals. Dogs may be frightened by the vocalizations of the seals. Barking dogs stress seals and their pups, return barking dogs to the car.
Drones are not permitted as they may stress the animals.
Nearby Attractions
1. Friends of the Elephant Seals Visitor Center
Plaza del Cavalier
250 San Simeon Avenue, Suite 5A
San Simeon, CA 93452
(805) 924-1628
2. Hearst Castle - Perched on the hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this historic estate is well known for its' art and architecture. Explore the luxurious rooms, lush gardens, and learn the fascinating history of media magnate William Randolph Hearst.
3. Piedras Blancas Light Station - Enjoy guided tours that provide panoramic views and insights into the maritime history of the region.
4. Cambria - Artistic center by the sea. Stroll through the unique shops and art galleries. Indulge in fine dining options that showcase local flavors, making Cambria a perfect blend of culture and relaxation.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
The winter months, from December to February, are prime for witnessing seal births. Dress warmly and wear layered clothing. Don't forget the umbrellas as winter often brings rain.
Accommodations
There are numerous hotels in San Simeon and more expensive ones south in the charming town of Cambria.
There are plenty of campgrounds north of San Simeon near the small town of Gorda. And a few near Cambria as well.
So, How Do I Get There?
From San Francisco, it is typically a 3 hour and 45 minute drive. (275 miles).
From Los Angeles it is typically about the same 3 hours and 40 minutes. (228 miles).
A trip to the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is more than a wildlife adventure – it's a journey into the heart of California's coastline. Witnessing Northern Elephant seals giving birth against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean is an experience that leaves a lasting impression, reminding us of the beauty and fragility of nature.
So round up the family and grab the dog. Gather the snacks it’s time to go!
And remember to take lots of photographs but nothing else.
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