San Diego is home to various marine mammals, primarily California Sea Lions, though seals are also present. These animals are a consistent presence along the San Diego coastline, offering numerous observation opportunities throughout the year.
Where to See Them
Children’s Pool in La Jolla is a notable location to observe Pacific Harbor Seals. This sheltered beach has become a popular haul-out site, especially during their pupping season from December 15 to May 15. During this period, the beach closes to protect newborn pups and mothers, but visitors can view the seals from an adjacent seawall and viewing platforms. Dozens of harbor seals are often seen resting on the sand, with young ones nestled beside their mothers.
A short distance away, La Jolla Cove serves as a prominent habitat for California Sea Lions. These larger, more vocal animals often congregate on the rocky outcroppings and small beaches within the cove. Visitors can frequently see them basking in the sun, swimming in the clear waters, or engaging in playful interactions. The area around La Jolla Cove and nearby Shell Beach provides excellent vantage points to witness these active marine mammals.
Beyond La Jolla, marine mammals can also be spotted in San Diego Bay. Sea lions often frequent the piers and floating docks, using these structures for resting. While less concentrated than La Jolla, these urban sightings highlight their widespread presence and adaptability.
Seals Versus Sea Lions and How to Observe
Distinguishing between seals and sea lions is straightforward. California Sea Lions, the most common eared seals in San Diego, possess small external ear flaps. They also have large, muscular front flippers that rotate forward, allowing them to “walk” on land by lifting their bodies. Their vocalizations are often loud barks, used frequently in social groups. Adult males can reach up to 1,153 pounds and 8.4 feet in length.
In contrast, true seals, such as the Pacific Harbor Seal found in San Diego, lack external ear flaps, having only small ear openings. Their front flippers are shorter and covered in fur, and they cannot rotate their hind flippers forward. This means they move on land by wriggling or “belly-crawling” in a caterpillar-like motion. Harbor seals are generally quieter than sea lions, vocalizing with soft grunts or moans. They tend to be smaller, with adults typically weighing between 180 to 285 pounds and measuring up to 6 feet in length.
Observing these marine mammals responsibly is important for their well-being and human safety. All marine mammals, including seals and sea lions, are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). This federal law prohibits harassment, including approaching too closely, touching, feeding, or disturbing the animals. Visitors should maintain a respectful distance, generally at least 50 yards (approximately half a football field), from them on land and in the water. Limiting observation time to 30 minutes or less helps minimize disturbance to their natural behaviors.