A park ranger will lead the tour into and through the elephant seal rookery. Since this access is early in the morning and before the normal guided walks for the public begin, a van will be used to facilitate the tour and to reduce the amount of walking. Each tour is limited to 7 people.
This is a unique opportunity to photograph the elephant seals at sunrise, when the animals are most active.
The park ranger will escort photographers to optimal viewing locations for the elephant seals at Año Nuevo Point. Please note, however, that all viewing access is predicated on public safety and the protection of park resources within state and federal law.
Sunrise Photography Tours will be held rain or shine.
We are holding this event under COVID Compliance constraints. Therefore, regardless of vaccination status, masks will be required in the Preserve when social distancing is not possible.
Logistical information will be sent to ticket holders a week or so before the event.
In 2022 we will have four dates for sunrise seal photography:
- Saturday, January 29
- Sunday, January 30
- Saturday, February 12
- Sunday, February 13
Funds raised will be used to support interpretive and educational programs, and park improvements at Año Nuevo and 14 other California State Parks on the San Mateo County coast. The Fair Market Value of the ticket is $76.25
See our Sunrise Photo webpage for more info.