Ano Nuevo State Reserve

Battling bull elephant seals bark their way through harems of females at Ano Nuevo State Reserve. This unique 1,500-acre reserve includes a protected breeding ground for these large, noisy animals. At maturity, the seals weigh up to three tons and stretch a full 16 feet from whiskers to tail.

The reserve, located along California's central coast, includes remote, dune-covered beaches, a rocky island (off-limits to visitors), a freshwater pond and layered sea cliffs. California gray whales pass by during migration.

The reserve's popular hiking trails are open from May through November. The Ano Nuevo Point Trail passes the seals' Wildlife Protection Area and traverses grasslands dotted with spring wildflowers. A Bluff Trail passes through a grove of cypress and eucalyptus before opening to breathtaking views of the rocky shore.

During the seals' breeding season, December through April, access to reserve lands is restricted to guided 2.5-hour tours, available by reserved ticket only (call 800-444-4445).

Birdwatching is first-rate, with a wide variety of migrants, vireos, warblers, hummingbirds, raptors and shorebirds, including plovers and sandpipers. The brown pelican is a frequent visitor.

Because of its moderate climate, Ano Nuevo State Reserve has robust intertidal life, its tidepools teeming with hermit crabs, limpets, chiton and sea anemones. Collection of any seashells, however, is prohibited. Cove Beach is open for surf fishing, by permit.

The reserve is open daily until sunset. For overnight stays, visitors often seek out basic accommodations at the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse nearby, operated by American Youth Hostels.