Harbor Seal Rookery
The Carpinteria harbor seal rookery is a small beach east of Carpinteria State Beach where harbor seals rest and give birth. It is run by the City of Carpinteria, which closes the rookery beach from December 1 to May 31 for pupping season. Year-round, the best way to see the seals is quietly from the bluff overlook on the Coastal Vista Trail.
The Rookery at a Glance
Where the Rookery Is
The park's master plan places a small pocket beach about 2,000 feet southeast of the state beach boundary, used by a large number of harbor seals as a haul-out. The City of Carpinteria, which manages it, centers its rules on Casitas Pier.
When the Beach Is Closed
Under City Ordinance #470, the rookery beach is closed from December 1 through May 31 every year to protect the colony during pupping season. The closure reaches about 750 feet east and west of Casitas Pier and 1,000 feet out to sea. From June through November the beach is open, but the city still asks everyone to keep well away from the animals and from the pier.
How to See the Seals
The city's advice:
- Watch from the bluff above the rookery, quietly. The overlook is on the Carpinteria Coastal Vista Trail.
- Park at 499 Linden Avenue, the city's recommended lot. The walk to the overlook is about 1.3 miles, mostly flat but unpaved, on dirt and decomposed granite with uneven spots. Wear real shoes.
- Use the bluff-top trail, keep dogs on a leash, and stay far from Casitas Pier.
From the state beach, the city also describes a route east along the sand to the stairs up to Tar Pits Park; its trails continue east to the rookery. See tar pits.
The Rules
- The federal Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits approaching marine mammals at any time of year.
- Disturbing the seals can bring fines of up to $10,000 per occurrence, according to the city.
- The city's full harbor seal rules are in Chapter 12.24.090 of the Carpinteria Municipal Code.
- State Parks' own camping rules say the same thing in four words: do not disturb marine mammals.
Nearby on the Same Trail
The Coastal Vista Trail also runs through the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve, a city open space known for whale watching and birding. See nearby parks.
Harbor Seal Rookery FAQ
When is the Carpinteria seal sanctuary closed?
The rookery beach is closed from December 1 to May 31 each year for pupping season, under City of Carpinteria Ordinance #470.
Where do you park to see the seals in Carpinteria?
The city recommends 499 Linden Avenue. From there it is about 1.3 miles on the unpaved Coastal Vista Trail to the overlook above the rookery.
Can you walk on the beach with the seals in Carpinteria?
Not from December 1 to May 31. From June to November the beach is open, but federal law bans approaching marine mammals at any time.
Is the seal rookery part of Carpinteria State Beach?
No. It is east of the state beach and managed by the City of Carpinteria.