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Where to See Seals in San Diego


a seal swimming in a body of water

Want to learn about the best ways and places to see seals in San Diego? Read our blog to learn more!

If you search “top sights in San Diego,” the San Diego seals immediately pop up. The seals are known as one of the wildlife options in San Diego that delight families and animal lovers. If you’re on the hunt for where to see seals in San Diego and La Jolla, then you’re in luck. We’re bringing you the 5 best places to see seals in San Diego. San Diego is home to some of the best seal viewing spots in the country. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, seeing seals in San Diego is a must-do activity. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top five places to see seals in San Diego, including the best seal tours and seal viewing spots. Let’s get started.

Here’s our list of the best ways and places to see seals in San Diego:

  • Seal Tours in San Diego
  • La Jolla Cove
  • Children’s Pool Beach in La Jolla
  • Seal Beach La Jolla
  • Shelter Island
  • Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
  • North County Coastal Trail

Go on a Seal Tour in San Diego: See Seal Beach and More

Looking for a unique way to see seals in San Diego? Try a seal tour! The best seal tours in San Diego will take you to Seal Beach and other top seal spots in the area. Looking for wildlife is always fun, but with the proper tools, and recommendations from local tour guides you’re bound to be more successful in your pursuit.

See the Seals on a Speed Boat Adventure Tour of the Bay

couple on a speed boat adventure seeing the seals in San Diego

Wondering where to see seals in San Diego? Head down to San Diego Bay during your Speed Boat Adventure Tour. You’ll see all the main landmarks of the city and get the thrill of a fast and fun boat ride around an iconic city. While normal sightseeing can get boring and monotonous, Speed Boat Adventure Tours ensure you see everything you want to see from a diverse vantage point. Visit our site to learn more about our boat rides in San Diego.

See the Seals at Sunset Cliffs with a GoCar Tour

a close up of a stuffed animal on a beach

As the name suggests, the sunset views from this spot are incredible. You can surf, go cliff jumping, or see seals during a GoCar Tour. GoCar Tours are an ideal way to explore the city with the first GPS-guided storytelling car. The seals are just one of the 25 attractions that you can take advantage of in this city. Whether you want to tour the city for a day or an hour, GoCar Tours has something for you. Visit GoCar San Diego Tours to learn more. Here are some other great places you can visit during a GoCar tour to see the seals:

Point Loma

The tide pools at Point Loma offer a great opportunity to see harbor seals and sea lions in their natural habitat. Visitors can explore the tide pools and observe these animals from a safe distance.

Pacific Beach

The Crystal Pier in Pacific Beach is another popular spot for seal and sea lion viewing. Visitors can often see these animals sunbathing on the rocks near the pier.

Coronado Beach:

The rocky outcroppings at Coronado Beach provide a great habitat for seals and sea lions. Visitors can observe these animals from a distance and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

La Jolla Cove: The Ultimate Spot to See Seals in San Diego

a seal swimming in a body of water

Looking for a place where to see seals in La Jolla? La Jolla Cove is part of the La Jolla Ecological Reserve and Marine Park. You’ll find the seals framing the north and south end of the beach. You should head to the La Jolla Cove if you’re searching for the best spot in San Diego to go snorkeling with sea lions. However, it’s important to remember to respect the seals’ space and not disturb them.

Children’s Pool Beach in La Jolla

a piece of cake on a table

Head to Children’s Pool Beach to see seals in La Jolla. This is an almost guaranteed spot where you can enjoy the wildlife in the city. However, it’s worth noting that you are less likely to see the seals if you visit in the summer when there are more people around. Nonetheless, this is an ideal spot to see seals in San Diego. 

Seal Beach La Jolla

See Seals in Their Natural Habitat Seal Beach in La Jolla is a popular spot for seal viewing. It’s an almost guaranteed spot to see seals in San Diego, but be aware that it can get crowded during the summer months. However, this beach is an ideal place to see La Jolla sealions and seals in their natural habitat.

Shelter Island: A Hidden Gem for Seeing Seals in San Diego

a seal swimming in a body of water

Shelter Island is a narrow strip of land that connects to mainland California. It’s located 3 miles southwest of San Diego National Airport. It’s often only visible during low tide, and thus it is a perfect place where you can see seals in San Diego. Head here to enjoy a pleasant afternoon viewing San Diego’s most popular wildlife. 

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

A Secluded Spot to See Seals in San Diego Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a secluded spot to see seals in San Diego. This area is known for its stunning views and quiet surroundings, making it an ideal place to watch seals in their natural habitat.

North County Coastal Trail

The North County Coastal Trail stretches for 44 miles along the coast and offers many opportunities for seal and sea lion viewing. Visitors can hike or bike along the trail and stop at various lookout points to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

Additional Tips for Seal Viewing in San Diego

  • Respect the seals’ space and do not disturb them.
  • Visit early in the morning or during low tide for the best viewing opportunities.
  • Besides seals, keep an eye out for other wildlife, such as dolphins, sea lions, and whales.
  • Practice eco-friendly and responsible tourism to protect the natural habitats of the seals and other wildlife.
  • Consider other local tours and activities, such as kayaking and visiting the Birch Aquarium.

Final thoughts

Discover the Best Seal Tours and Seal Viewing Spots in San Diego. Now that you know the top places to see seals in San Diego, including popular seal tours in La Jolla and beyond, don’t miss out on the chance to see these amazing animals in their natural habitat. From La Jolla sealions to Seal Beach La Jolla and beyond, there’s so much to discover on your next visit to San Diego. If you’re looking for a way to avoid the crowd (especially in the summertime), join a Speed Boat Adventure tour or GoCar tour.  With our tips and recommendations, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.