Experience Año Nuevo State Park in Pescadero, California
Año Nuevo State Park is set along the rugged central coast of San Mateo County. This coastal gem covers 4,200 acres. It is located about 55 miles south of San Francisco. This breathtaking preserve is world-renowned for its dramatic elephant seal rookery, rich ecosystems, and historic ranch site—offering visitors a unique blend of wildlife observation, cultural heritage, and scenic trails.
What Makes This Park Unique?
- Elephant seal spectacle: One of the largest mainland breeding colonies for northern elephant seals—up to 10,000 annually—returns seasonally .
- Diverse habitats: Sand dunes, coastal prairie, wetlands, red alder forests, rare San Francisco garter snake and red-legged frog habitats .
- Rich history: Includes prehistoric Ohlone midden sites and the 19th-century Dickerman/Steele dairy ranch buildings, now a Marine Education Center .
Top Activities & Amenities
Guided Tours & Wildlife Viewing
Join docent-led elephant seal tours during the breeding season (mid‑December to end of March; reservation required). Tours last ~2½ hours and cover 3–4 miles over varied terrain .
Hiking Trails
Explore miles of trails, including the 1.3‑mile accessible Point Trail and longer routes reaching Bight Beach and Franklin Point. Permit required April–November; boardwalk and staging area provide great seal views .
Beach Access, Picnicking & Fishing
Relax at Cove Beach or along coastal bluffs—ideal for beachcombing, birding, or surf fishing. Picnic tables and flush restrooms are available near the Visitor Center .
Visitor Center & Educational Programs
- Marine Education Center: Offers interactive exhibits, theater, gift shop, and bookstore housed in historic barns .
- Interpretive exhibits: Found along trails and the new staging area, highlighting ecology, cultural history, and conservation .
- Restrooms & water: Flush toilets and drinking fountains near the parking and Visitor Center, plus accessible facilities .
Visitor Tips
- Entrance fee: $10 per vehicle; elephant seal tour: $7/person; free entry for ages 4 and under .
- Book elephant seal tours starting October 20—56 days in advance; space fills quickly .
- Tour-only access mid‑December–March; April–November you need a free permit for Bight Beach .
- No dogs or bicycles on trails; pets are prohibited .
- Bring layers, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, binoculars, water—coastal weather shifts quickly .
- Stay ≥25 feet from wildlife—critical for seal safety and compliance .
- Accessible features include parking, restrooms, boardwalk, staging area, and equal-access guided tours .
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
For an unforgettable experience, time your visit for the seals’ molting season in April–May or juvenile haul-out in September–November—quieter than peak winter, yet still full of wildlife behavior. Hike the Cove Beach loop early in the morning for blooming wildflowers and chance glimpse of sea otters and shorebirds. Don’t miss the new interpretive staging area—it’s perfect for learning local history before heading onto the dunes.