Año Nuevo Elephant Seals

Walk the dunes with a guide to see huge elephant seals and their pups. Then stop in Pescadero to meet goats and grab fresh bread.

1.25 hrs drive · 1 day · Best for little kids to teens · Dec–Mar

Day 1: Seals and the coast

Strollers aren't allowed on the seal walk. It runs about 3 miles round trip and about 2.5 hours, with sand dunes at the end. Bring a carrier for little ones. One parent suggested ages 7 and up because their kids found it long. Macaroni Kid Walnut Creek
Tickets are nonrefundable and must be bought online at least two days ahead. Come early or stay after for the Marine Education Center exhibits. The picnic tables and restrooms are by the parking lot. Local News Matters
No food is allowed on the trail, so eat before the walk. Families with toddlers said to expect to carry them most of the way, or keep them going with songs and games. Berkeley Parents Network
From April through November you don't need a guided tour. Pick up a free permit at the park and walk out at your own pace. It's quieter and the weather is milder, though you mostly see young seals from farther away. Bring binoculars. Local News Matters
At Harley Farms the goats reach through the fence to be petted, and kids can see baby goats and the guard llamas. Cheese tasting in the shop is an easy way to get kids to try something new. 7x7

Guided walks run daily Dec 15 to Mar 31, rain or shine. Last season it was $7 per person plus a $3.99 fee on ReserveCalifornia, and kids 4 and under were free.
For last season, bookings opened Oct 20. Late arrivals lose their spot. Some unreserved tickets are sold at the park from 8:30 AM.
No strollers, umbrellas or pets. Bring rain gear, layers, sturdy shoes and water. You can leave a stroller at the staging area.
December has the big bulls, births peak in late January, and early March is mostly weaned pups playing near the water.