COVID-19 Update-April 12, 2022

 

Check here for all current restrictions in SLO County. 

A summary of our current status:

Elephant Seal Viewing Area is OPEN: The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Viewing Area is open daily sunrise to sunset. Be aware that the Elephant Seal Viewing Area can be very crowded and you may not be able to physically distance from others. The best time to visit is early morning and on weekdays. Directions are available HERE.

Visitor Center and Gift Shop IS OPEN: The Friends of the Elephant Seal Visitor Center and Gift Shop is OPEN to the public daily from 10 AM- 2PM. Your safety is our first priority. Face masks are required at all times in this indoor location.  We follow best practices for the retail sector for capacity limits, cleaning protocols and touchless service. The Visitor Center and Gift Shop is located in the Cavalier Plaza in San Simeon, 7.8 miles south of the Elephant Seal Viewing Area. Directions are available HERE.

Online Shopping: The Friends of the Elephant Seal Visitor Center and Gift Shop in San Simeon will continue to provide free local order pick-up from our Gift Shop and phone response from 10 AM-2 PM daily with some holiday exceptions. You are welcome to shop online and arrange for local pick-up or convenient shipping. Give us a call if you have a special request at (805) 924-1628.

Live Beach Cam and Social Media: You can rely on the Friends of the Elephant Seal and our live beachcams to keep you updated on the latest news from the rookery. We post frequently on our Facebook page as well.

Can I visit the Elephant Seal Viewing Area?

Guidance for Visitors:  Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is in Hearst San Simeon State Park. Please follow guidance offered by California State Parks.

State park day-use outdoor and parking areas are open, including the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Viewing area, 7.8 miles to the north of the Friends of the Elephant Seal Visitor Center and Gift Shop in San Simeon. Our all volunteer guides/docents (look for the blue jackets and vests) are looking forward to welcoming you and answering all of your questions.

**It is very difficult to physically distance in many parts of the Elephant Seal Viewing Area. Weekdays and early morning hours are typically less crowded. Please plan ahead to stay safe.

We appreciate your help with the following:

1. All existing Elephant seal viewing guidelines continue to apply – including no drones or wildlife disturbances. If you witness any disturbances to elephant seals, drone use or other incidents that cause concern, please call the State Park Rangers at 805-927-2068.
2. It you encounter seals or any marine wildlife on a public beach, please do not disturb, stay far away and be sure keep dogs on leash.
3. As always… pack in and pack out all trash.
4. Stay on the boardwalks and viewing platforms at the viewing areas.
5. There are no restrooms at the viewing area, so plan accordingly.

COVID-19 specific Visitor Guidelines from California State Parks

Recreate Responsibly
Protect yourself, family, friends and your community by following these prevention measures:

• Know Before You Go – Prior to leaving home, check the status of the park unit you want to visit to find out what restrictions and guidelines are in place. Have a back-up plan in case your destination is crowded. Stay home if you are sick.
• Plan Ahead – Some restrooms will be temporarily closed to keepup with cleaning schedules. Bring soap/hand sanitizer.
• Play It Safe – Find out what precautions you should take when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time visiting the State Park System. Learn more at parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips.
• Be COVID-19 Safe – State Parks continues to meet guidance from local and state public officials as COVID-19 is still present and still deadly. Wear a mask when required. Read the latest face covering guidance.
• Leave No Trace – Leave areas better than how you found them by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash. Do not disturb wildlife or plants