Operating Hours
Open year-round, 8 am to sunset.

Visitation
Highest during pinniped breeding season, December 15 through March 31.

Permits
From April - November (molting and haul-out season), visitors must obtain a hiking permit to enter the Wildlife Protection Area, obtainable at the Entrance Station on a first-come, first-served basis. From 12/15-3/31, elephant seals can only be viewed via guided tours. Reservations recommended and can be made from 56 to 1 day in advance.

Visitors Center and Programs
Visitor Center: A bookstore in the Visitor Center sells items such as books, postcards, and posters.

Programs: The Reserve offers guided elephant seal walks December 15-March 31; during these months, this is the only way to see the elephant seals.

Food Supplies and Concessions
Food Supplies: No food or beverages are sold at the Reserve, and there is no water along the trail. Restaurants and grocery stores are located in nearby towns.

Concessions: A bookstore in the Visitor Center sells items such as books, postcards, and posters.

Visitor Impact
The trails are muddy during wet weather. Collecting shells, rocks, wood, plants, or animals is not allowed. Pets are not permitted in reserve or in parking lots.

Additional Information
Reserve office (Not for Reservations!): 650.879.2025 (8:30 am - 3:30 pm PST)