Explore San Francisco
Also Featured In
Ano Nuevo State Park
Type: Adventure, Attractions, Beaches, Day Trips, Family Friendly, Outdoor Activities - Winter, Parks, Sightseeing, Tours and Excursions, Uniquely Here
10Best Says
Ano Nuevo State Park is a coastal park just an hour's drive south of San Francisco. It offers similar activities and sights as most Bay Area parks: endless hiking up and down hills that offer dramatic... Read More
Ano Nuevo State Park is a coastal park just an hour's drive south of San Francisco. It offers similar activities and sights as most Bay Area parks: endless hiking up and down hills that offer dramatic views of the endless Pacific Ocean. What makes Ano Nuevo unique is its unique inhabitants: elephant seals, huge beasts that drag themselves on shore for mating and breeding rituals. Depending on when you visit, you could either witness brutish males fighting each other mating rites or females giving birth to their pups. The elephant seals are protected marine animals, so seeing these interesting creatures involves scheduling a docent-led tour ahead of time.
Advertisement
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Tom Molanphy
San Francisco Local Expert
- Attractions near The Cow Palace: "Wear layers and bring both sun and fog protection - weather on this exposed coast can change quickly."
- Best for Attractions near The Cow Palace Because: Ano Nuevo offers wildlife viewing that few other parks in the area can provide.