The annual breeding season for the large marine mammals has begun and males are arriving to jostle for mating dominance. As the females arrive in the coming weeks, State Parks officials estimate as many as 2,000 seals could be coming to the South Coast shores.
As many as 100,000 visitors come each year to see the elephant seals, making Año Nuevo one of the most popular State Parks in the region. Leading guided tours and keeping visitors a safe distance from the surly seals requires a team of about 200 volunteers who work at the site daily.
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“It turns into another world here when the tourists start coming,” Kiser said. “We’ve got to be real creative this year with the budget situation.”
Guided walks cost $7 per person and are available daily and can be made by reservation. Call (800) 444-4445.
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