PIEDRAS BLANCAS ELEPHANT SEAL ROOKERY

January is a great time to visit another iconic landmark of the central coast, the Elephant Seal Rookery. In December, male elephant seals may engage in occasional scuffles, but most behavior at this stage of the season involves posturing, intimidation displays, vocalizations, and long periods of resting while conserving energy.
Seal numbers will continue to increase over the coming weeks. Birthing typically peaks in mid-January, followed by mating season in mid-February. During this time, the beach becomes increasingly active with seals competing for space, dominance, mates, and tending to newborns, all happening just a few yards from the viewing paths and boardwalk. Elephant seals are massive animals, and sometimes are surprisingly close. This time of year the bulls often put on an impressive show as they battle for prime breeding territory.
From a photography standpoint, a wide range of lenses works well. Wide angles are great for capturing the environment and scale, while longer lenses allow for tight portraits and distant interactions such as sparring adults. Versatile zooms like a 70–200mm or 100–400mm are especially useful.
We’ll meet at 8:00 a.m. by the information board on the south side of the parking lot. That said, I strongly encourage arriving earlier to take advantage of softer morning light and smaller crowds. Conditions can be cold and windy, though this is the Central Coast, so layers are highly recommended.
The coastal drive is always scenic, keep an eye out for wildlife along the drive as well, including hawks, herons, Tule Elk, and even zebras on the lands surrounding Hearst Castle.
I’ll be driving from Nipomo and plan to arrive around 7:00 a.m. If you’d like to carpool, feel free to reach out. I hope to see many of you there, especially the new members who joined this year.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me:
📞 805-610-5527
✉️ adi@adiringer.com