Año Nuevo State Park

Pacific Coast Highway Travel gives the essential information on Año Nuevo State Park including essential information, wildlife viewing and best time to visit.

Watching Elephant Seals at Ano Nuevo State Park

Located along the scenic coastline of Northern California, Año Nuevo State Park is a breathtaking destination known for its rugged beauty, diverse wildlife, and fascinating history.

This protected area is most famous for its large colony of northern elephant seals, which draw thousands of visitors each year. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, hiker, or photographer, Año Nuevo offers an unforgettable outdoor experience.

About Año Nuevo State Park

Año Nuevo (Spanish for "New Year") was named by Spanish explorers who first sighted the area on January 3, 1603. The park spans over 4,000 acres, featuring coastal dunes, marshes, and forests. Its most iconic attraction is the northern elephant seal rookery, where these massive marine mammals come ashore to breed, give birth, and molt.

Location of Año Nuevo State Park

Ano Nuevo State Park is 21 miles north of Santa Cruz, a 30-minute drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Park Hours: 8:00 AM to sunset (varies by season)

Best Times to Visit Año Nuevo State Park

• December–March: Breeding season (peak activity, guided tours required)
• April–August: Molting season (seals shed their skin)
• September–November: Juvenile seals and females return

Guided walks are mandatory during breeding season (December 15–March 31) to protect both visitors and seals. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through the ReserveCalifornia website.

Hiking Trails and Scenic Views

Año Nuevo offers several trails that wind through coastal scrub, forests, and along dramatic bluffs with ocean views.

• Año Nuevo Point Trail (3 miles round trip): Leads to the elephant seal viewing area.
• North Point Trail (1.5 miles): Offers stunning coastal vistas and opportunities to spot whales (gray whales migrate December–April).
• Cove Beach Trail: A short walk to a secluded beach (check tide conditions).

Wildlife Viewing: The Elephant Seals

Northern Elephant Seal

The park is one of the best places in the world to observe northern elephant seals in their natural habitat. These impressive creatures can weigh up to 5,000 pounds (males) and are known for their loud vocalizations and dramatic battles during mating season.

Other Wildlife and Nature

Beyond elephant seals, the park is home to:

• Sea lions and harbor seals
• Migratory birds (including peregrine falcons and snowy plovers)
• Gray whales (visible from shore in winter)
• Native plants like coastal lupine and dune grasses

Our Pick of the California Guides

Visitor Tips and Regulations

• Reservations: Required for guided elephant seal walks (Dec 15–Mar 31). Book early—spots fill quickly!
• Parking: Small fee (free for CA State Parks pass holders).
• Dress in layers: Coastal weather can be windy and foggy.
• Stay on trails: Disturbing wildlife is prohibited.
• No dogs allowed (to protect seals and other wildlife).

Best Guide Covering Santa Cruz

Nearby Attractions

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

• Pescadero State Beach (10 min drive) – A serene beach with tide pools.
• Pigeon Point Light Station (15 min south) – A historic lighthouse with hostel accommodations.
• Big Basin Redwoods State Park (45 min east) – Ancient redwood forests.

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Recent Articles

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• 
• 

1. Construction Will Shut Down PCH Lanes This Week

   Apr 23, 25 10:14 AM

   Caltrans will close lanes one northbound and one southbound lane of PCH near Corral Canyon from 8 p.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. Wednesday, with one lane open in each direction, according to city officials.

   Read More

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