Sealed with a Kiss

You don’t need to head out on the water to see Southern California’s seals and sea lions. These three coastal spots invite you to bike, wander, and explore while catching close-up views of these big beauties, with plenty of nearby parks and places to stroll by the shore. Sea, yeah— see ya there!

Week: 01.28.2026
Regions: Southern CA

Seal of Approval

Visit the Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro

The good folks at the Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro rescue and rehab sea lions and seals so they can return to the wild. In the last year alone, the nonprofit cared for over 800 animals. See that lifesaving work by visiting the Center’s animal hospital.
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Shapes in the Water

An Oscar-Inspired Visit to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach

Elisa in The Shape of Water falls in love with a humanoid creature from a mysterious underwater world, an affection that’s perfectly understandable when we visit the lovable real-life creatures that dwell in the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.
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Bike the Harbor, Catch Sunset at Hollywood Beach

Bike Channel Islands Harbor to Hollywood Beach in Oxnard

Hollywood Beach Oxnard
Woman on an e-bike at Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard passing by docked sailboats
docked sailboats at sunset at Channel Islands Harbor
Sea Lions at Channel View Park in Oxnard
Sailboats, barking sea lions, wide-open golden beach—Channel Islands Harbor and Hollywood Beach are marquee attractions, and renting a fat-tire E-bike is a fun way to explore this classic Southern California setting in Oxnard.
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

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  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

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  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

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  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

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  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

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  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

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  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

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