Año Nuevo State Park: A Coastal Sanctuary
Witness the majestic Northern Elephant Seals in their natural habitat at Año Nuevo State Park, a coastal gem offering stunning scenery and rich history along California's central coast.
Año Nuevo State Park, along California's central coast, is a captivating destination renowned for its dramatic coastline and diverse ecosystems. The park's main attraction is the Northern Elephant Seal rookery, one of the largest mainland breeding colonies in the world. During the breeding season (December-March), visitors flock to witness the seals' birthing, mating rituals, and dominance battles. Beyond the seals, the park boasts sandy beaches, coastal prairie, wetlands, and a rich cultural history, including Native American settlements and a 19th-century dairy ranch. Año Nuevo offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and a chance to connect with nature's raw beauty, making it a memorable experience for all.
A brief summary to Año Nuevo State Park
- 1 New Years Creek Rd, Pescadero, California, 94060, US
- +1650-879-2025
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your guided tour well in advance, especially during peak breeding season (Dec-Mar), as spots fill up quickly.
- Bring layers! Coastal weather is unpredictable; be prepared for wind, fog, and sunshine all in one visit.
- Obtain a free visitor permit at the entrance station if visiting April-November for self-guided tours.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the 3-4 mile hike over varied terrain, including sand dunes.
- Consider an Equal Access Tour if you have mobility challenges; reservations are recommended.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 1, whether coming from the north (Half Moon Bay) or south (Santa Cruz), look for the well-marked Año Nuevo State Park entrance. Turn onto Año Nuevo State Park Road and follow it to the park's main parking lot. Parking costs $10 per vehicle. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
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Public Transport
While direct public transportation to Año Nuevo State Park is limited, you can take the SamTrans bus from Daly City BART station to Palo Alto Transit Center, and then connect to the Santa Cruz Metro Route 35. However, this route is seasonal and may not operate year-round. Check the Santa Cruz Metro website for the most up-to-date schedule and availability. From the Route 35 stop, there will still be a considerable walk to the park entrance. Fares vary depending on the distance traveled on each bus route, but expect to pay around $10-$20 in total.
Discover more about Año Nuevo State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
24.6 km
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Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
26.6 km
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Redwood Grove Loop Trail
26.6 km
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Visitor Center | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
26.6 km
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Allen Peak
27.8 km
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Garden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park
27.8 km
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The Couple Bench
28.6 km
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El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve
28.6 km
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Vista Hill
28.7 km
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Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
29.4 km
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Historic house of Mr. Fremont Older
29.5 km
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Methuselah Tree (Sequoia sempervirens)
29.8 km
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Emmett's Point
31.3 km
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Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
31.6 km
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Ohlone Indian Village Town of Los Altos Hills Historical Site No. 1
31.7 km
Experience the Ohlone Indian Village, a historical landmark in Los Altos Hills, where you can dive deep into the rich heritage of California's indigenous Ohlone people.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
7.0 km
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Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center
7.2 km
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park
8.1 km
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Butano State Park
8.6 km
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Greyhound Rock
9.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Greyhound Rock, a stunning public beach in Davenport, California, perfect for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.
Paisley Rock
15.1 km
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Pescadero State Beach
15.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Pescadero State Beach, a coastal haven ideal for relaxation and exploration in California.
Memorial County Park
15.7 km
Discover towering redwoods, tranquil trails, and family camping in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains at Memorial County Park.
American Abalone Farms
16.8 km
Explore sustainable seafood farming at American Abalone Farms in Davenport, California, and enjoy fresh abalone in breathtaking coastal surroundings.
Portola Redwoods State Park
18.5 km
Discover towering redwoods, serene trails, and peaceful camping in this hidden gem of the Santa Cruz Mountains, a tranquil escape from city life.
Sam McDonald Park
18.6 km
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Heritage Grove
18.7 km
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San Lorenzo Valley Museum, Grace Episcopal Gallery
19.3 km
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Shark Fin Cove
20.1 km
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Castle Rock State Park
21.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Parkside Grille
28.7 km
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Nonno's Italian
31.0 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Nonno's Italian in Los Gatos - from pizza perfection to exquisite wines in a charming setting.
Madera
33.0 km
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The Mountain House
33.3 km
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Sizzling Lunch
33.9 km
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El Cerrito
34.0 km
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Flea Street
34.7 km
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Dutch Goose
34.7 km
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SAJJ Mediterranean (Mountain View)
35.2 km
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Le Petit Bistro
35.2 km
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Gochi Japanese Fusion Tapas
35.2 km
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Tommy Thai
35.3 km
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Napoletana Pizzeria
35.4 km
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Cheztakos!!!
35.4 km
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Caspian Cuisine
35.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Redwood Store
31.1 km
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B K Collections
32.9 km
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Shady Lane
33.9 km
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Sharon Heights Shopping Center
33.9 km
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Blossom Valley
34.0 km
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Grant Park Plaza
35.1 km
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Nob Hill Foods
35.1 km
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Menloville Country Store
35.1 km
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Mountain View Surplus
35.2 km
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Marshalls & HomeGoods
35.3 km
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Fatty Zone
35.3 km
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Diddams Party & Toy Store
35.4 km
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Trader Joe's
35.4 km
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Gingko Furniture
35.4 km
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Mountain View Shopping Center
35.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Library & Bar
33.0 km
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Pool Garden Terrace at Rosewood Sand Hill
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The Village Pub
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Chili's Grill & Bar
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Rootstock Wine Bar
36.1 km
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Moods. Wine Bar
36.2 km
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Opal By Arena
36.3 km
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Molly Magees
36.3 km
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SSG
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St. Stephen's Green
36.3 km
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Das Bierhauz
36.4 km
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Saddle Room Bar
36.5 km
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Savvy Cellar Wine Bar
36.5 km
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MacArthur Park Restaurant and Bar
37.0 km
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Fred's Place
37.1 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Coyote's Keep
32.7 km
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Willis Lounge
35.1 km
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Redwood City Elks Lodge #1991
35.7 km
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Alberto's Night Club
36.2 km
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Monte Carlo Restaurant & Bar
36.3 km
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Y&T
36.5 km
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Pure Nightclub
37.9 km
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JJ's Lounge
39.2 km
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Club Fox
39.7 km
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Nighthawk
39.8 km
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Blacksmith
39.8 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail scene at Blacksmith, Redwood City's premier bar for expertly crafted drinks and lively ambiance.
840 Wine Bar & Cocktail Lounge
39.9 km
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MAYA NIGHTCLUB
39.9 km
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EMA Karaoke & Bar
40.1 km
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Lobby Lounge
40.1 km
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