What you need to know
Location Activities
Park Information
Año Nuevo State Park is home to the largest mainland population of northern elephant seals in the world. It's a small piece of a wild coastside that is yours to explore thanks POST who has been working to safeguard the surrounding open spaces since 1977.
Watch for:
Keep an eye out for migrating whales, sea lions, harbor seals, coyote, wildflowers and the endemic San Francisco garter snake.
Our Favorite Hike at Año Nuevo
Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
Elevation change: None
Hiking time: 1 hour
Trail surface: Gravel
Best season: Fall, winter or early spring
Parking lot location: Click here for directions
Though we try to keep this page accurate, please see the State Park’s website before visiting for the latest information.
Overview:
For an easy 1.5-mile stroll, follow the ADA-compliant Año Nuevo Point Trail along the coastal bluffs for roughly three quarters of a mile. Near the pond, a short spur trail descends to the surf at Cove Beach. Occasionally elephant seals are found here, but sightings are more seldom compared to the main colony on the western side of the park. Turn around when you reach the gated entrance of the Año Nuevo Coast Natural Preserve and retrace your steps back to the parking area.
The main elephant seal colony is within the Año Nuevo Coast Natural Preserve. You will need a permit to enter the preserve, which are issued between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the park entrance. Guided walks are also available during breeding season (December 15 to March 31), although reservations are encouraged for these tours as space is limited. For information and reservations, call (800) 444-4445.
Año Nuevo State Park Photo Gallery
The Backstory
POST assisted in the protection of much of the land with Año Nuevo State Park, from its coastal ranch land along Green Oaks Creek to its forest upland area. The organization has also protected much of the land in the surrounding area, including the 6,391-acre Cloverdale Coastal Ranch.