As of today, past peak, season runs to ~July 31. Earth Exhibit tracks the live conditions and flags it the moment it is on.
Each spring and early summer northern elephant seals haul out at Piedras Blancas to undergo a catastrophic annual molt, when they shed their outer layer of skin and fur.
Animals of all ages gather on the beaches and bluffs, creating a concentrated, easily observed 'molt carpet' that is one of the largest and most reliable pinniped spectacles on the California coast.
Where to see it
A taste of where to see it. The full map, exact coordinates and the best timing for each spot live in the app.
| Viewing spots |
|---|
| Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery Boardwalk |
| Piedras Blancas Light Station Overlook |
| + 2 more spots, with exact coordinates and timing, in the app → |
This is the short version
This page shows a taste. The app has the full list of where to see this, the exact timing, and live conditions for 1,000+ natural phenomena worldwide, so you know the moment one is genuinely worth the trip.