Goat Rock

The Wharfs in Monterey

On Safari in Elkhorn Slough

I love otters, obviously.  Which is why our private Safari boat through Elkhorn Slough was the perfect birthday adventure to close out the weekend.

Pescadero State Beach

This beach is the entry into the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, but it is a worthwhile destination on its own.   We arrived during an ideal low tide, in time to get up close to the seals and witness a seagull choking down a large starfish!

Moss Beach with Mom and Dad

Seal Friends

Me: "Aww, they're best friends. They're having so much fun!"
Tom: "Or, they're fighting to the death."

I'll let you be the judge. :)

Pillar Point Bluff

Pillar Point Bluff was really more of a walk than a hike, tucked between a trailer park and a neighborhood of custom ocean-view mansions.  Although its too close to the highway to feel like you're completely enveloped in nature, I did see a snake, some hawks, several rabbits, and hundreds of seals. You can go to the very edge of the bluff and look down on rocks covered in seals.  It's a great view and if the beaches below were accessible I'd be all about it. BUT, I'm the kind of person who likes to get up close! So I think I'll be sticking with the reliable Moss Beach for future seal viewings!