Big Sur is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering incredible opportunities to see some of California’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat. Whether you’re hoping to spot California condors soaring above the cliffs or catch a glimpse of sea otters playing in the kelp forests, timing is everything. Here’s a guide to the best times of year to see Big Sur’s incredible wildlife.

🐋 Whale Watching: December – May & July – October

Big Sur’s rugged coastline provides some of the best whale-watching opportunities in California.

Gray Whales migrate south from December to February and head north from March to May. Look for them from coastal viewpoints like Garrapata State Park or Point Sur Lighthouse.
Humpback Whales can be seen from July to October, often breaching offshore.
Blue Whales, the largest animals on Earth, make rare but breathtaking appearances from June to September.

🦅 California Condors: Year-Round, Best in Spring & Fall

The magnificent California condor, with its massive 9.5-foot wingspan, is one of Big Sur’s conservation success stories. The best places to see them include Pinnacles National Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and the Ventana Wildlife Society Viewing Areas. They are active year-round but are more visible on warm, sunny days when they soar on thermal currents.

🦦 Sea Otters: Year-Round

These playful marine mammals can be spotted bobbing in the kelp forests along Big Sur’s coastline. The best places to see sea otters include Garrapata State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, and China Cove at Point Lobos. Early morning is often the best time to catch them feeding and playing.

🦌 Elk & Deer: Fall & Winter

Big Sur is home to mule deer, commonly seen grazing in meadows year-round. If you venture north to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, you may spot them early in the morning or at dusk. For tule elk, head to Pinnacles National Park or Fort Ord National Monument.

🐻 Bobcats, Mountain Lions & Foxes: Winter & Spring

While these elusive predators are rarely seen, lucky hikers might spot a bobcat hunting near Andrew Molera State Park or Garrapata State Park. Mountain lions are more reclusive but are sometimes seen in the backcountry of Los Padres National Forest.

🐢 Tide Pools & Coastal Marine Life: Low Tide, Year-Round

For an up-close look at Big Sur’s smaller marine life, head to the tide pools at Garrapata Beach, Sand Dollar Beach, and China Cove at Point Lobos. Low tide is the best time to explore and find starfish, sea anemones, crabs, and tiny fish.

🌅 Plan Your Ultimate Wildlife Adventure

No matter what time of year you visit Big Sur, there’s always an incredible wildlife experience waiting for you. Pack your binoculars, hit the trails, and get ready to witness the wild beauty of this extraordinary coastal paradise.

What wildlife are you most excited to see in Big Sur? Let us know in the comments below! 🦉🐳

Best Times to See Wildlife in Big Sur 🦅🌊