Big Love on the Coast

This is the time of year when big things happen on our beautiful California coast. By big we mean elephant seals, currently in prime mating season but still willing to take a load off to just lounge around. Some are also in need of some rehab TLC. Here are three coastal excursions well worth the time for seeing why elephant seals are such a huge deal. 

Week: 02.04.2026
Regions: Northern CA

Big Love!

Hike to the Elephant Seals at Ano Nuevo State Reserve

Peninsula & South Bay
Hikes
Hike to the elephant seals at A
Every year in winter elephant seals converge on one of their favorite breeding grounds, 13 miles south of Pescadero on the San Mateo coast: Año Nuevo State Park.
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Warm Up to Winter in Reno Tahoe

Winter Outdoors and Relaxation in Reno Tahoe

Points Beyond
Relaxing, Hikes
Sponsored
2026 is just getting started, but there’s one place already rising to the top as the best for adventure and relaxation: Reno Tahoe. The awe—and ahhhs—begin as soon as you arrive. Go for Soak! Reno Tahoe is filled with warm vibes, including its abundant natural hot springs. The r
Winter's Best Activities in Reno Tahoe

Spit Shine

Hike Limantour Spit in Point Reyes

North Bay
Hikes
Woman walking along Limantour Beach in Point Reyes National Seashore
Limantour Beach in Point Reyes is wild and beautiful coastline. Walk the beach for a few miles and spy amazing wildlife along this narrow spit of sand flanked by the Pacific Ocean and Drakes Estero.
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Sealed with a Kiss

Visit the World Famous Marine Mammal Center in the Marin Headlands

North Bay
Water, Relaxing, Hikes
Where do seals and sea lions go when they’re not feeling well? They head to rehab in the Marin Headlands at the world-renowned nonprofit Marine Mammal Center. The center is conveniently located just above Rodeo Beach (and right by one of the North Bay's best coastal hiking trails).
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A Hiker looking over a mountain range

Your Inbox to the Outdoors

Stay up to date with our weekly recommendations on where to explore locally in California.

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