Seal Beach, California, is named for seals, but visitors today rarely see them on the main beachfront. While the city’s name originates from these marine mammals, environmental changes and human development have altered their habitats. Therefore, observing seals typically requires exploring areas beyond the immediate beach.
The Historical Naming of Seal Beach
The city of Seal Beach was originally known as Bay City. In 1913, the name was officially changed to Seal Beach, inspired by the harbor seals (Phoca vitulina richardii) that once frequented its scenic beachfront. Historical accounts indicate that dozens of these seals would bask and rest on a sand spit located at the mouth of Alamitos Bay, an area now part of the broader Seal Beach region. Their significant presence defined the coastal settlement.
Over time, habitat changes and increased human activity contributed to the seals’ diminished presence directly on the beach. Beginning in the 1950s and 1960s, construction and human disturbance, including harassment, drove these animals away from their traditional haul-out sites. This shift made the once-common sight of seals on the main beach increasingly rare. The city’s name now serves as a historical marker, reflecting a past abundance no longer found on the immediate shoreline.
Marine Mammals Beyond the Name
While harbor seals are not typically seen on the main Seal Beach shoreline today, other marine mammals can be observed in the broader area. California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) are a more common sight, often found resting on buoys, docks, or other man-made structures in nearby harbors. These eared seals are identifiable by their external ear flaps and their ability to rotate their hind flippers forward, allowing them to move more easily on land compared to true seals.
The Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge, a 965-acre salt marsh estuary within the Naval Weapons Station, offers opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, including marine mammals. Primarily a haven for over 200 species of migratory and endangered birds, the refuge’s wetlands also support marine life, including occasional sightings of harbor seals and California sea lions. Green sea turtles and various fish species also inhabit these protected waters.
Visitors interested in wildlife viewing should adhere to responsible practices to protect animals and their habitats. Maintain a safe distance of at least 50 feet from seals and sea lions. Approaching or attempting to touch them can cause stress and is illegal under federal law. Feeding marine mammals is prohibited, as it alters their natural behaviors and diet. Keeping pets leashed and disposing of trash properly helps preserve the marine environment.