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Elephant Seals at Ano Nuevo
Situated between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz, Año Nuevo State Natural Reserve is the site of the largest mainland breeding colony in the world for the northern elephant seal. Prime time for viewing the seal pups is January and February. However, the males remain into the summer. You can only view the seals by reserving a walk via Reserve America. Weekend dates are scarce but there are still some dates available over winter break and many other weekdays. Note, reservations are only necessary while the pups are in residence.
When
Any day in February when you can get a reservation. There are still some winter break and weekend dates left! Supposedly the seals are extra active in the rain so don't rule out wet weather.
Where to Stay
This is an easy day trip but if you want to stay over night, this area offers some great options.
Half Moon Bay Inn. A new option in downtown Half Moon Bay. Rooms run from $165. Located at 401 Main St., Half Moon Bay; 650/560-9758.
The Beach House Half Moon Bay. This place channels Cape Cod but on the left coast. True to its name, it is right on the beach. Junior Suites from $225.
Costanoa Lodge. Ten miles south of Pescadero, Costanoa offers a variety of room options including campsites from $50, tent bungalows from $115, cabins from $185, rooms from $210; 650/879-1100. Weeknight rooms are $149 in February. The restaurant is a great place for a family meal after seal viewing.
Where to Eat
Barbara’s Fish Trap. Great seafood that you can eat in the restaurant or take out to the beach. Cash only! 281 Capistrano Rd., Princeton by the sea, CA 94018; (650) 728-7049.
Norm’s Market. They get rave reviews for their artichoke garlic bread. 287 Stage Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060; (650) 879-0147
Duarte’s Tavern. The food here is more "comfort" than "gourmet" but it has lots of local color and uses local ingredients. The artichoke soup and pies get very high marks. 202 Stage Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060
Family Friendliness. This adventure is probably better for older kids. The walk is about 4 miles round trip, may involve inclement weather and you cannot take strollers or umbrellas. I had to bribe my five year old with ice cream to make it through the hike.
Itinerary
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When
Any day in February when you can get a reservation. There are still some winter break and weekend dates left! Supposedly the seals are extra active in the rain so don't rule out wet weather.
Where to Stay
This is an easy day trip but if you want to stay over night, this area offers some great options.
Half Moon Bay Inn. A new option in downtown Half Moon Bay. Rooms run from $165. Located at 401 Main St., Half Moon Bay; 650/560-9758.
The Beach House Half Moon Bay. This place channels Cape Cod but on the left coast. True to its name, it is right on the beach. Junior Suites from $225.
Costanoa Lodge. Ten miles south of Pescadero, Costanoa offers a variety of room options including campsites from $50, tent bungalows from $115, cabins from $185, rooms from $210; 650/879-1100. Weeknight rooms are $149 in February. The restaurant is a great place for a family meal after seal viewing.
Where to Eat
Barbara’s Fish Trap. Great seafood that you can eat in the restaurant or take out to the beach. Cash only! 281 Capistrano Rd., Princeton by the sea, CA 94018; (650) 728-7049.
Norm’s Market. They get rave reviews for their artichoke garlic bread. 287 Stage Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060; (650) 879-0147
Duarte’s Tavern. The food here is more "comfort" than "gourmet" but it has lots of local color and uses local ingredients. The artichoke soup and pies get very high marks. 202 Stage Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060
Family Friendliness. This adventure is probably better for older kids. The walk is about 4 miles round trip, may involve inclement weather and you cannot take strollers or umbrellas. I had to bribe my five year old with ice cream to make it through the hike.
Itinerary
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