San Juan Islands, Washington State, USA. Paddling with Orcas! What a dreamlike imagination! In the Salish Sea, on the northwest coast of the USA this dream could come true. We put our luck to the test and went on a three-day paddling trip in the realm of the orcas. In the following article I will tell you about our experiences and share my most memorable impressions with you. Furthermore, you will get many practical tips for your Kayak Tour at the Orcas of the San Juan Islands.

Non-solicited, unpaid advertising. This article contains affiliate links*, marked with an asterisk.

What to expect in this Article

The San Juan Islands in the Salish Sea
Details of our Kayak Tour at the Orcas of the San Juan Islands
Highlights of our Kayak Tour Kayak Tours
Day by Day - the Route of our Kayak Tour at the Orcas of San Juan Island San Juan Island
How to get to the San Juan Islands
Packing list for your Kayak Tour

The San Juan Islands in the Salish Sea

The San Juan Islands are a group of several hundred islands in the Salish Sea off the coast of Washington State. Most of them are uninhabited, some of them are very tiny. San Juan is also the name of one of the largest islands in the archipelago. The main town of San Juan is Friday Harbor. This is where the ferry from Anacortes arrives, where most of the whale watching trips start, and where we meet for our three-day kayak tour with San Juan Kayak Expeditions.

The San Juan Islands are shielded from the waves and storms of the open Pacific Ocean by elongated Vancouver Island to the northwest. On the land side, they are framed by the high mountains of the Olympic Mountains, the Cascade Range and the British Columbia Coast Range.

Due to the location of the islands in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, dry, sunny weather is predominant here. This is also the reason why the San Juan Islands are often called the Banana Belt. Even though no bananas grow here at all. But due to the protected location and the rich wildlife, the San Juan Islands are best suited for a kayak tour of several days.

Details of our Kayak Tour at the Orcas of the San Juan Islands

Duration: Our tour lasted three days. One, two, four or five day tours are also available.
Travel period: May through September
Orcas: The best chances to see orcas during a kayak tour at the San Juan Islands are in July and August, because that's when Southern Resident orcas frequent the Salish Sea. Transient orcas, on the other hand, can be seen year-round.
Distances: 25 miles total (10 miles, 9 miles, 6 miles).
Difficulty: You should have some paddling experience and you should be able to paddle for extended periods of time. Longer crossings are required in two places.
Costs: three day trip for $679.00 per person (2021)

Highlights of our Kayak Tour

Orcas

The highlight of every kayak tour in the Salish Sea is without a doubt the sighting of orcas or other whales. But such encounters are not predictable and you need a lot of luck. Unfortunately, we did not see any orcas during our paddle tour. However, when I was out later with a whale watching boat, I was able to observe orcas right on the shores where we paddled along.

Do you want to know more about the orcas at the Sun Juan Islands? Then check out my article about the Southern Resident Orcas on my photo website.

Wildlife

The Salish Sea is famous for its orcas. But of course there are many other animals that make the region an Eldorado for wildlife viewing. During our paddle tour we could observe many harbor seals and bald eagles. In addition to various gulls, we also saw kingfishers, cormorants, Canada geese, ravens and a peregrine falcon. Also of particular interest were the imported bighorn sheep, sitka deer and prickly horned antelope on Spiden Island. More about this later.

There are also chances to see the following species: Dall's and harbor porpoises, humpback whales, minke whales, gray whales, elephant seals, Steller's and California sea lions, river otters, mink, raccoons, foxes, as well as ospreys and many other bird species.

Landscape

In addition to animal observations, there are many other impressive experiences that I will remember for a long time. First of all, there is the scenic beauty of the islands with their rugged coasts and secluded bays. The campsites are idyllic and the sunsets over the neighboring islands are a dream.

I just love it when I am so close to the water in a kayak. Then I feel especially connected to nature. When I can also make out the kelp forest and purple starfish below me, it's time for a little paddle break. At some places, however, it is also worthwhile to let your gaze wander into the distance. If the weather is clear, you can see the ice-covered peak of Mt. Baker (3286 m) from the kayak .

Night Paddling with Bioluminescence

The highlight of the day is hidden in the dark: night paddling with bioluminescence. No, actually this are two highlights: First, paddling at night (when do you ever do that?) and then bioluminescence. That was really something special. I'll write more about it later and you'll also learn which little critters are responsible for it.

Day by Day - the Route of our Kayak Tour at the Orcas of San Juan Island

The first Day of Paddling

Even though I've limited myself to the bare essentials, my luggage seems like way too much, as usual. With waterproof bags, dangling Nalgene bottles and a bundle of rain gear in my arms, I greet the other fellow paddlers. After loading all the luggage into the van, we head for Griffin Bay. Here our kayaks are waiting for us: four tandem kayaks and one for our guide Jury.

First we listen to Jury's detailed briefing. Among other things, we learn how to climb back into the boat after a capsize on the open water. I look out at the water suspiciously, wondering how quickly this might happen. Fortunately, the water is relatively calm, the sun is shining and it's warm. Wonderful paddling weather, who thinks about capsizing? What I don't know yet: the water will change and become a bit choppy on the longer crossings.

After everything is packed and life jackets and spray blankets are put on, we are ready to go. To warm up, we paddle a short distance to Turn Island and take a lunch break. Chopped vegetables, hummus, bars and salted nuts. Jury also shows us our route for today on the map. We will paddle about 10 miles to our camp on Jones Island. Much of the route will take us along the Shaw Island shoreline. Our next stop is Yellow Island. A trail runs once around the small island and we are glad to be able to move our legs a bit.

It is not far to our camp on Jones Island. After setting up the tents and having a delicious dinner, we take a short hike to the opposite side of the island. Here we end the evening with a sunset and a sip of wine.

We were not the only paddlers on the water. But I have to say: we had the most beautiful boats. Yellow, orange, green, blue, and neon yellow. Each tandem kayak was a different color, roomy, and very docile to paddle. We also received lightweight paddles from Werner (I have one of these for my kayak at home), life jackets, splash guards, seat cushions, bilge pump, waterproof bags, and a tent. On the way, large water canisters always provided enough drinking water and in the evening Jury spoiled us with delicious hot food. Except for a few granola bars or snacks for the road, we didn't have to worry about food. And even for me as a vegan was taken care of. Simply fantastic and sooo delicious.

Tip: Little treasures* that make paddler's life easier:Tip: Small treasures* that make life easier for paddlers:

The second Day of Paddling

The next morning we wait for the right start time. This depends on the tides. After all, we don't want to have to paddle against the current. So we have a very relaxed start into the day and first of all an extensive breakfast. After packing, we even have time to circle the west side of Jones Island on a narrow trail.

But after the relaxed start soon comes the challenge of the day: the crossing to Spieden Island. The crossing is about five kilometers over open water. But on the second day of the paddle tour we are almost professionals and master this challenge with flying colors.

Spieden Island was bought in 1997 by James Jannard, the founder and main shareholder of Oakley. It is located about a mile north of San Juan Island and separated from it by the Spieden Channel. The north side of the island is densely forested, while the south side is a barren open landscape. We paddle along the north side. In the tall trees we spot several bald eagles. They seem to love the island. On the other side of the island, which we won't see until the next day, live bighorn sheep, sitka deer and prickly horn antelope. How did these exotic animals get to the island? They were imported in the 1970s and 1980s for hunting. There was a hunting lodge, airstrip and hangar. But due to environmental concerns, as well as the risk that errant shots could injure other watermen, hunting operations were discontinued. The imported animals remained on the island, surviving and reproducing.

We paddle along the pristine north side of Spieden Island and then cross over to Cactus Island and Johns Island. We finally set up camp at the Kristiansen Campground on Stuart Island. After settling in and having a delicious vegetable curry, we launch our kayaks into the water again. Our destination is the . Turn Point LighthouseFrom here you can watch the sunset .

But the real highlight of the evening awaits in the dark of night: Night Paddling with Bioluminescence. The darker it is, the better the blue glow of the plankton can be seen. We turn off our headlamps. With every paddle stroke it glows next to me. The bow wave of our kayak is also surrounded by a blue glow. It is so beautiful to see that I would have loved to continue paddling deep into the night. But unfortunately the distance to our camp is not that far. We can already hear the waves rolling in the bay towards the shore and the bottom of our kayak touching the gravel.

What is Bioluminescence?

This mysterious blue-green light comes from billions of microscopic algae that are found here in particularly high concentrations. When they are mechanically stimulated by waves, by a paddle, or while swimming, they briefly light up. The algae responsible for this are called dinoflagellates. Weltweit werden 2400 Arten unterschieden. Aber nur einige von ihnen sind zur Biolumineszenz fähig, wie beispielsweise “Noctiluca miliaris” was auf deutsch “Nachtlaternchen” bedeutet. Wie bei fast allen Arten der Biolumineszenz ist das Leuchten auf eine chemische Reaktion von Luciferin mit dem Enzym Luciferase zurückzuführen.

Experiments have shown that species capable of bioluminescence are less likely to become prey. Presumably, predators are deterred by the luminescence. Other theories suggest that the glow illuminates other organisms, which the predator then grabs instead.

The third Paddling Day

Today we paddle from our camp on Stuart Island back to Spieden Islandwhich we circle on the west side. This puts us in a good position to observe the exotic bighorn sheep, sitka deer and prickly horn antelope that live here. On the open south side of the island these animals can be seen very well. We paddle along the shore to about the height of Sentinel Island. Here we prepare ourselves mentally for the crossing of the Spieden Channel. This time even with some wind and waves. We stay close together as a group and paddle briskly across the channel. While I concentrate on the waves and the paddle movement, my eyes search the water surface not less concentrated for Orcas. But the whales still don't want to show themselves. Instead, a seal appears diagonally in front of us and looks at us with its big eyes.

Our next destination is Posey Island, the second smallest state park in America. Perfect for a quick stop and delicious burritos for lunch. The camp is idyllic. Those who stay here have an island almost to themselves (or their group). But if you want to camp here, you have to make a reservation in advance, like at almost all state parks.

We continue along the east side of Henry Island. To our left is San Juan Island with picturesque bays and some luxurious estates. I enjoy our las stretch on the water and try to soak up as much of this beautiful stretch as possible. Finally we paddle into Westcott Bay where we bring our kayaks ashore. Here the van with trailer of San Juan Kayak Expeditions is already waiting for us.

We unpack our stuff from our green kayak. At this moment I regret that I did not book the five-day tour. I would have loved to paddle even further.

How to get to the San Juan Islands

Friday Harbor, the main town of San Juan Island, is accessible by air or sea.

Tip: It is best to arrive one day before the start of the kayak tour. This is much less stressful. Plus, you may have an opportunity for a first whale watching tour or land-based orca watching at Lime Klin State Park.

By ferry:

Washington State Ferries run daily from Anacortes to Friday Harbor. If you are traveling by car, make a reservation in advance. You pay when you check in. If you want to cross without a car, you don't need a reservation. You don't really need a car in Friday Harbor, because many things can be reached on foot.

We stayed in Friday Harbor for a few days before and after the kayak tour. The only thing we needed a car for was the whale watching tour from Mayas Legacy. This starts in Mitchell Bay in the northwest of the island. Also, we always went to the west coast of San Juan for picnics in the evenings. This is where you get the most amazing sunsets as well as good chances of orca sightings from land.

During the kayak tour we could leave our car in the parking lot of our hotel, the Orcas Inn. If you want to leave your car in Anacortes, you can do so for a fee in the night parking lot of the Anacortes terminal.

By plane:

Friday Harbour Sea Planes offers several seaplane flights daily. Flights by regular aircraft are also offered by San Juan Airlines, Point to Point Air, and Kenmore Air. However, I think the ferry is a better choice.

Packing list for your Kayak Tour

In addition to the kayaks and paddles, life jackets, splash guards, seat cushions, bilge pump, waterproof bags and a tent are provided by the organizer.

• Sleeping bag and sleeping mat
• Head lamp
• Clothing in several layers (quick-drying material)
• Rain jacket and rain trousers    
• Outside the high summer: cap, scarf, gloves.
• Cup, plate, bowl, cutlery
• Drinking bottle, e.g. Nalgene (at least one 1-liter bottle for refilling, better two)
• Snacks for the trip
• Personal hygiene utensils
• Water sandals, if necessary socks for the boat
• Sneakers for the camp
• Binoculars and camera
• Maybe a power bank or solar panel
• Sun cream, sun hat and sun glasses

Book Recommendations for Kayak Enthusiasts

Looking for more great paddling destinations or want to refine your paddling technique? Then I can recommend these books*.

You can order the books with a click on the pictures on Amazon. If you buy a product via an affiliate link, I get a small commission, and you help me to keep filling Fernweh-Motive with interesting articles. The product will not be more expensive for you, and you will do me a huge favor.

Have you ever been on a kayak tour for several days and seen orcas or other whales? Where was it? Do you have any questions about my article? If yes, then write me a comment!

Do you want to know when there are new articles on my blog? Then follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram. I would also be very happy if you share my article with your friends.

Recommendations for further Reading

Do you like paddling as much as I do? Then you might also be interested in my articles about a Paddling tour in Patagonia or about a Kayak Tour in the Swedish Archipelago.

Der Beitrag Kajaktour bei den Orcas der San Juan Islands erschien zuerst auf Fernweh-Motive.

North Cascades, Washington State, USA. The Maple Pass Loop is said to be the most beautiful trail in the North Cascades. Is that true? We hiked it and were absolutely thrilled. Find out what to expect on the trail and why it's so worthwhile here.

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The North Cascades are known for their wide variety of trails. These lead through dense forests or over breezy mountain passes usually to fantastic views. But what if you have limited time and need to decide on a hike? Then it should already be a particularly beautiful route. Like the Maple Pass Loop, for example.

The Maple Pass Loop is a loop trail and leads on 11.6 kilometers around the mountain lake Ann Lake. Along almost the entire length, the trail offers fantastic views. The ascent of about 600 meters in altitude can be a bit strenuous, but is easily doable. And since you are rewarded with a new great view every few meters, the climb is much easier.

Tip: The Maple Pass Loop is popular and easy to reach via the North Cascades Scenic Highway. On summer days, especially on weekends, there are a correspondingly large number of hikers. It's best to start early.

The trail is located on the edge of North Cascades National Park. In fact, only the highest section of the Maple Pass Loop is within the national park. Most of it is in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Quick Facts: Maple Pass Loop

Length: 11.6 kilometers round trip
Height difference: 610 meters
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous hike with little shade
Drinking water: Bring along! At the parking lot and during the hike there is no chance to fill up your water bottles. We each drank two liters on a sunny summer day.
Parking: At the Rainy Pass trailhead just off the North Cascades Scenic Highway (MP 158).
Highlights: diverse vegetation, breathtaking views and chances for wildlife viewing.

Tip: Don't forget a sun hat or basecap. There is hardly any shade.

Tip: Hike the round tour best counterclockwise. Then you have step by step better and better views and also the more moderate climb.

Hiking boots, daypacks and everything else you might need for a hike on the Maple Pass Loop can be found at Bergzeit*.

The trail over the Maple Pass leads you first through dense forest always uphill. After a while, a view of Ann Lake opens up and the forest thins out. The trail zigzags higher and higher, and views of the lake and surrounding mountains follow one another seamlessly.

But you don't have to look that far to see the beauty. Wildflowers grow to the left and right of Maple Pass Loop, and with a little luck, you might see one of the cute chipmunks or a rock ptarmigan. Even mountain goats are said to exist here. But unfortunately we have seen none.

TIP: A hike is especially enjoyable when you can see animals up close. Instead of getting up close to the animals, it's best to take a pair of binoculars with you. For example, the handy and even waterproof Zeiss Terra ED 8×42*. Maybe you'll get lucky and see mountain goats at Maple Pass Loop.

The pass is of course the highlight of the hike and perfect for a longer break. But also the way downhill has a lot to offer. Here, however, a little more surefootedness and a head for heights is required. Trekking poles are helpful here.

Tip: The Maple Pass Loop must be especially beautiful during the heather bloom in mid-August to mid-September.

What else is in the area?

Do you have a little more time for the Northern Cascades? Then you'll find information on many more hiking trails at the North Cascades Visitor Center in Newhalem . In addition, you'll pass many other places of interest on North Cascades Scenic Highway 20 and the Cascade Loop , including:

• Skagit River with the dam Gorge
• Gorge Lake, Diablo Lake, Ross Lake
• Diablo Lake Viewpoint
• Washington Pass Viewpoint
• Western town of Wintrop with museum
• Colorado River

My overnight tips

The Colonial Creek Campground is beautifully located at Diablo Lake. If you book in time and are lucky, you might even get a spot right on the water.

We drove the Cascade Loop and had our next overnight stay at the Idle a while Motel in Twisp*. For a reasonable price, you get an extremely cozy room here.

Book Recommendations for Washington State

Do you want to know where the journey is going? Then I can recommend this travel guides* to you.

You can order the travel guides on Amazon by clicking on the pictures. If you buy a product via an affiliate link, I get a small commission, and you help me to keep filling Fernweh-Motive with interesting articles. The product will not be more expensive for you, and you will do me a huge favor.

Which hike in or near the North Cascades do you like best? Also the Maple Pass Loop? Do you have any questions about my article? If yes, then write me a comment!

Do you want to know when there are new articles on my blog? Then follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram. I would also be very happy if you share my article with your friends.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Recommendations for further Reading

Do you love being outdoors and hiking as much as I do? Then you might also be interested in my articles about Giant Sequoias im Mariposa Grove or about the Ascent of the Half Dome.

Der Beitrag Maple Pass Loop – Ein Traum in den North Cascades erschien zuerst auf Fernweh-Motive.

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Where is Mount Pilchuck located?

Mount Pilchuck is located in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, about a three to four hour drive from Seattle. The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest extends from the Canadian border west of North Cascades National Park and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest to Mount Rainier National Park. It is one of the most visited forests in the country. Covering nearly 7,000 square miles, it is home to glacier-covered peaks, spectacular mountain meadows and ancient, enchanted forests.

Mount Pilchuck Hike at a Glance

Length: 8.4 kilometers (there and back)

Height difference: 647 meters

Difficulty: strenuous, steep trail with many rocks and large boulders, some meters of boulder climbing at the end. When the trail is partially snow covered well into June, route finding can be difficult.

Drinking water: there is a small stream at the beginning of the trail

Parking: there is a parking lot with restroom at the trailhead. No water. Best to come early as the trail is busy.

Highlights: 360° panoramic view in clear weather of the Cascades, Olympics and Puget Sound. On cloudy days, the moody atmosphere in the forest is another highlight.

Best time: July to October, often still snow in June

Nearest town: Granite Falls, Washington

Dogs: Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash.

The first section of the trail leads us through dense forest. Soon we cross a small stream and then it goes further continuously uphill. The gradient here is still moderate. But the further we get, the steeper it gets.

In fog, which is common here, the moss-covered trees look mystical and mysterious. There are many great photo motifs to discover here.

At some point the trees become a little smaller and we cross the first scree field. Here we also hear the first marmot whistle. Unfortunately, we don't see it, but later we will be able to see them.

The trail is sporadically marked with orange slats. Since there is no snow, we can easily follow the trail. The last about 1.5 kilometers consist mainly of boulders. Surefootedness is required here. Finally, Fire Lookout, shrouded by mist, emerges from between the trees. Unfortunately, contrary to the weather forecast, the clouds have not cleared.

To get to the Fire Lookout we have to climb the last few meters over big rocks and up a ladder. The view from up here is supposed to be fantastic. But we see here only a 360° panorama of dense fog. But even so, the little wooden house is a nice destination. Inside, info boards explain which mountains you could see in which direction, including Mount Baker and Mount Rainier. There is also more information about the history of the Fire Lookout at Mount Pilchuck.

Fire Lookouts

In the 20th century, Fire Lookouts were built after a series of wildfires in Washington State. They were located at vantage points with particularly good all-around views. Of the 750 Fire Lookouts that once existed, only 93 remain today. They are extremely popular with hikers and are among the most beautiful hiking destinations in Washington.

The Road to Mount Pilchuck

Coming from Seattle, you will first drive about 1 to 1.5 hours on I-5 North to the town of Granite Falls. From here, drive another 45 minutes on the Mountain Loop Highway until you reach the trailhead. And now it gets fun. The last kilometers on the Mount Pilchuck Access Road require a lot of patience and skill. The 11-kilometer gravel road has countless potholes, most of them in the first few kilometers to just past the parking lot at the Heather Lake Trailhead. If you have a vehicle with high ground clearance, you have a clear advantage. But even with a normal car, the route is quite doable with a little patience. The last 2 kilometers are paved again. At the end you will reach a large parking lot with toilet and information board.

To visit Mount Pilchuck you must pay a Recreation Fee and place the receipt behind the windshield of your car. Among other things, the Discovery Pass is recognized. This costs $10 for a one-day pass or $30 for an annual Discovery Pass. If you're traveling longer and want to visit more than three state parks, the latter is worth it.

Hiking boots, daypacks and everything else you might need for a hike on the Maple Pass Loop can be found at Bergzeit*.

Tip: Due to the many rocks and tree roots, I recommend sturdy, ankle-high hiking boots. For the descent trekking poles can be helpful. Take also something warmer to wear for the descent.

Conclusion about the Hike to Mount Pilchuk Fire Lookout

Even when the panoramic view from Fire Lookout is obscured by fog, the hike to Mount Pilchuck is well worth it. The mist creates a particularly atmospheric, mystical scenery, which one would never perceive in sunshine.

Book Recommendations for Washington State

Do you want to know where the journey is going? Then I can recommend this travel guides* to you.

You can order the travel guides on Amazon by clicking on the pictures. If you buy a product via an affiliate link, I get a small commission, and you help me to keep filling Fernweh-Motive with interesting articles. The product will not be more expensive for you, and you will do me a huge favor.

Have you ever been to one of the Fire Lookouts, maybe even Mount Pilchuck? Do you have any questions about my article? If yes, then write me a comment!

Do you want to know when there are new articles on my blog? Then follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram. I would also be very happy if you share my article with your friends.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Recommendations for further Reading

Do you love being outdoors and hiking as much as I do? Then you might also be interested in my articles about Giant Sequoias im Mariposa Grove or about the Ascent of the Half Dome.

Der Beitrag Hike zum Mount Pilchuck Fire Lookout, Washington State erschien zuerst auf Fernweh-Motive.

This article contains unsolicited and unpaid advertising and affiliate links*.

More interesting articles for your trip to California

A Visit to the Bradbury Building in Los Angeles
Bodie - Visit of a Ghost Town from Gold Digging Time
Climbing the Half Dome in Yosemite National Park
Sea Lions of La Jolla - Tips for Watching and Snorkeling
Mono Lake - Sights and Photo Tips

Table of Contents and Quick Navigation

Santa Catalina Island - Celebrity Paradise and Wilderness
Highlights & Attractions on Catalina Island
More helpful Tips for Catalina Island

Santa Catalina Island - Celebrity Paradise and Wilderness

Catalina Island is located off the coast of California. The island is the southernmost of the eight so-called Channel Islands and has just 4,100 inhabitants. Due to its proximity to Los Angeles it is a popular destination for excursions. Many city dwellers come for a long weekend or just for a day at the sea. Because with the ferry it is only a stone's throw from the big city to the wilderness.

The development of the island into a resort began at the end of the 19th century, but with little success. A fire in 1915 also destroyed half of the town of Avalon. In the year 1919, William Wrigley Jr. bought the island. The "chewing gum millionaire" promoted tourism and opened the Catalina Casino in 1929.

The Mediterranean flair of Avalon attracted many stars and starlets from Hollywood. Soon the place had become the "Playground of the Stars". Catalina became the celebrity paradise of the 70s. In order to save Catalina from total development and settlement, Wrigley founded the Catalina Island Conservancy and signed over 88% of the island to it. Since 1975, the Conservancy has been responsible for maintaining the natural state of the island.

Catalina is largely inhabited in only two places: the main town of Avalon and the smaller town of Two Harbors. The rest of the island is wilderness and only accessible with restrictions. Here live bisons, foxes and eagles. In the interior of the island sandy tracks cross a hilly semi-desert where cacti and agaves grow.

Also under water Catalina Island offers a lot of variety and is a highlight for divers of all levels. Clear water, kelp forests and a diverse underwater fauna and flora attract many divers all year round.

Highlights & Attractions on Catalina Island

Avalon offers a lot of variety and is the perfect starting point for tours and excursions. There is something for everyone. You have the choice between guided sightseeing tours, safari excursions into the interior of the island or sportive adventures in the air or under water. And of course you can also explore the island on your own. In the following I have arranged some highlights on Catalina Island for you.

Catalina Casino - the Symbol of Avalon

It is the landmark of Avalon and hard to miss. The Catalina Casino has a height of 12 floors and also a prominent location directly on the waterfront. The Art Deco style building, completed in 1929 after 14 months of construction, houses a movie theater at the bottom and a ballroom with a balcony and sea view at the top. The building cost 2 million US dollars at the time and is an architectural masterpiece. Today, the building is only used for film festivals, as the number of visitors is too low for regular operation as a cinema.

By the way: The word "casino" has nothing to do with gambling. It comes from Italian and means something like "meeting place".

To get an impression of the former glamour of the Catalina Casino, I recommend a guided tour through the building. You will see the interior decorated with sterling silver and gold leaf, murals and the largest round ballroom in the world.

Tours are offered almost daily by Catalina Tours. You can either book online or buy tickets in Avalon directly at the ticket shop next to the miniature golf course.

Discover the Casino: about 40 minutes; price about 20 US Dollar
Casino Behind-the-Scenes: approx. 70 minutes, price approx. 31 US dollars
Twilight at the Casino: about 90 minutes, price about 52 US Dollar

On the way to the casino you walk along the bank wall, which is decorated with paintings. These show the nature and history of Avalon.

Safari inside the Island

Fancy a safari? Then I suggest a safari tour with a convertible bus*.* It will take you on a two to three hours tour through the interior of the island. Over a tree-lined old stagecoach road, the tour takes you up to a height of 489 metres (1,604 feet). From there you will have a breathtaking panoramic view over the island. During the safari tours you can see bisons, foxes and bald eagles in addition to the beautiful island landscape. However, we were not so lucky on our trip and could only spot a single bison on a distant hill. So, next time, I'll book the more wildlife specialized Bison Expedition*.

You prefer to travel a little more individually? Then the Jeep Safaris*are just right for you.

A Boat Trip with the Glass Bottom Boat or the Half Submarine

A trip with the glass-bottom boat* is one of the must-do's during your stay in Catalina. Alternatively, you can also take a trip on the semi-submarine Nautilus* *. Its design is reminiscent of the first nuclear submarine in the USA, the U.S.S. Nautilus. You'll be able to see various sea creatures, such as the orange Garibaldi fish. It is the state fish of California.

Snorkeling and Diving

You would rather dive completely into the clear water of Catalina? Nothing easier than that! Because in Avalon there are three dive centers where you can rent equipment for snorkeling and diving. You can also book courses and guided dives from land or boat. Diving on Catalina is absolutely worthwhile and an incomparable experience! Because the kelp forests here are among the best in the world. And you can also experience them on a snorkel tour, because the plants grow to the surface.

• Diving Catalina
• Catalina Divers Supply
• Ron Moore’s Dive Catalina

You want to discover more? From Avalon, daily boat trips to other dive sites are offered. You can book a 2-tank dive at Catalina Divers Supply for 100 US dollars (without guide and equipment). There is also the diving base Two Harbors Dive & Recreation in the town of Two Harbors.

Dixie toilets are available at the Dive Park. You can fill up your water bottles in the public toilet opposite the casino. There are public showers on the way to the casino, as well as a towel rental. There is also an emergency call point right next to the entrance (mobile phone reception is poor here). The diving centers are on site with mobile trucks with the rental equipment. Bags are deposited during the dives at the shore wall or in the truck of the diving base. There was no snack at least in December. So bring your own snack and hot tea or coffee.

Tip for your surface interval: On the ground floor of the Catalina Casino, right next to the parking lot at the Dive Park, you can visit a small diving museum. The opening hours are from 10 to 17 o'clock.

Photo Tip: the most beautiful View of Avalon

Directly above the ferry pier Cabrillo Mole is the viewpoint Buena Vista. From here you have the best view over the port of Avalon and the casino. To get to the viewpoint, walk or drive up Wrigley Road. You will pass a small animal graveyard. The viewpoint itself looks a bit neglected, but after all it is all about the great view.

Hiking inside the Island

Santa Catalina Island is blessed with a unique wildlife and many endemic plants. In addition, you will always find bays and great views. What could be better than discovering the island on foot? There are short hikes on circular trails, longer day trips or even multi-day tours, such as the Garden to Sky or the Trans Catalina Trail.

• The Garden to Sky Trail starts at Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden and leads to 4.5 kilometres (2.8 miles) of great views across the island.
• The Trans Catalina Trail crosses the entire island for about 62 kilometers (38.5 miles).

However, all hiking tours on the grounds of the Catalina Island Conservancy require a free permit. You can apply for it here .

Culture and History in the Museum of Catalina

The Museum of Catalina was opened by K. Wrigley in 1953 on the first floor of Catalina Casino. Since 2016, however, it is located in the center of Avalon, in the Ada Blanche Wrigley Carpenter Building. The museum is dedicated to the culture and history of Santa Catalina Island. A short film first gives an introduction, followed by information about the Wrigley family and other important personalities connected with the island. There is also information about film productions on the island, the role in World War II and about the million dollar Mermaid Ester Williams. Unfortunately, the history of the island's Native Americans is a little too brief.

Address: 217 Metropole Avenue
Opening hours: 10am to 5pm
Admission: 17 US dollars for adults

More rewarding Activities

Catalina Island has many more sights and excursions to offer, which we unfortunately could not visit during our stay due to lack of time. Here are a few tips for further activities on Catalina Island Feel free to write me a comment with your experiences or further ideas.

• A kayak tour along Catalina's coast
• A visit to the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden
• Visit to the Nature Center in Avalon Canyon
• Adventure in the air: zipline or parasailing
• Recreation in the Spa of Avalon
• or just lie on the beach and swim

More helpful Tips for Catalina Island

At the end of my travel report about Catalina Island I have put together a few helpful tips for you: how to get there, on the way there, the best time to travel, accommodation, camping, eating and shopping.

The Journey to Catalina Island - the Choice is yours!

Most visitors arrive by ferry to Catalina Island. This is convenient and comfortable and you have a good chance to see dolphins or even whales during the crossing. In the winter months grey whales migrate along the California coast and in the summer you may be lucky enough to see blue whales. However, the ferries are pure passenger ferries. Because on Catalina only locals are allowed to have cars!

The ferries of Catalina Express are the only ones that run all year round. It is possible to depart from Dana Point, Long Beach and San Pedro. The journey takes between 1 and 1.5 hours. A round-trip ticket costs about US$75 per person. From San Pedro, there is also the port Two Harbors on Catalina.

From Newport Harbor the Catalina Flyer also operates. The trip takes 75 minutes and costs 70 US dollars for a return ticket.

My tip against seasickness: Aren't you completely wave-proof? Then I can recommend you chewable dragees for travel sickness. They work immediately. It also helps if you concentrate on the horizon and stay rather below and in the middle of the boat.

For the sake of completeness I want to mention that you can also book a helicopter flight to Catalina via IEX. The flight takes only 15 minutes from Long Beach, but with 270 US dollars for a return ticket it is not cheap.

Getting from A to B on Catalina - How to get from the Ferry Pier in Avalon to your Accommodation

The ferry pier Cabrillo Mole in Avalon is located just outside the city gates. So in most cases you will be able to walk to your accommodation. If you have more luggage or if your accommodation is a little further away, you have the following options:

• Order a taxi by calling the central phone number (310) 510-0025.
• The Garibaldi Shuttle offers a fixed route from the ferry pier to the Nature Center and Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden. The fare is US$2.

To discover the island on your own, you can also rent one of the cute golf carts. It is the usual means of transport for guests on Catalina. However, these may only be used within Avalon. For a golf cart with four seats, you will have to pay 100 US dollars for two hours. Furthermore, electric bicycles are offered. The support of a small motor makes sense in the mountainous terrain. At Catalina Bikes you can get an electric bike with route suggestions for your island tour for 25 US dollars.

The best Time to visit Catalina Island

Santa Catalina Island is a worthwhile destination all year round. While in the summer time, the great bathing weather attracts many guests, in the winter time, the calmness is more attractive. The island is then clearly emptier and the accommodations cheaper. But in the months December, January and February there is also the most rain. These are also the coldest months with temperatures between 9°C and 17°C. The warmest months are August and September with temperatures up to 25°C.

The water temperatures are highest at the beginning of September with 23°C and lowest with 14°C at the beginning of March. Diving is possible all year round, but in the winter with 7-mm neoprene plus ice vest. Visibility should be at its best between October and December.

Accommodation in Catalina Island

The whole island is oriented towards tourism. Therefore the available accommodations are accordingly numerous. But first you have to decide for one of the two places on Catalina: Avalon or Two Harbors. Because only here, accommodation in hotels, hostels or holiday flats is available.

We have been on Catalina Island just before Christmas. For our stay we had a room in the Hermosa Hotel right in the centre of Avalon. To save some money, we made sure that our accommodation offers a cooking facility. I would strongly recommend it. Because the food is not really cheap in Avalon. For a simple small meal with drink, a twenty dollar bill per person is quickly lost.

Camping on Catalina

On Santa Catalina Island there are five campsites. However, camping in the wilderness areas is only allowed with a permit at predetermined locations.

• Hermit Gulch Campground in Avalon
• Blackjack Campground in the interior of the island
• Little Harbor Campground near Little Harbor
• Two Harbors Campground near Two Harbors
• Parsons Landing Campground in the West End

Food in Avalon - Restaurant Recommendations

Here in Avalon there are many restaurants with delicious food and cosy atmosphere and great views. I especially liked these two restaurants:

Lobster Trap

The Restaurant Lobster Trap specializes in dishes with fresh fish and seafood. For vegetarians there are pasta dishes and a veggie burger. The atmosphere inside is cosy and rustic. However, there is no possibility to sit outside.

Address: 128 Catalina Street
Opening hours: 11 until late in the evening

Toyon Grill

From the Toyon Grill you have a great block to the Avalon Harbour, the Casino and the Green Pier. Here you can enjoy fresh, regional products. But only for breakfast and lunch, because at 16 o'clock the restaurant closes. My tip: try the vegetarian "Impossible Burger" for 13 US dollars. “Impossible Burger” for 13 US dollars.

Address: 708 Crescent Ave
Opening hours: 9 to 16 o'clock, on weekends 8 to 16 o'clock

You'd rather cook your own food? You will find a well-stocked supermarket of the Vons chain not far from the beach promenade at 240 Sumner Ave. But it is not really cheap here: for a fresh bread we paid 6 US dollars.

Tips for Shopping on Santa Catalina Island

If you want to buy a souvenir of Santa Catalina Island, you have a wide range of choices on the beach promenade. But I specially liked the souvenir shops in the museum and at the airport of Catalina, the Airport in the Sky.

Book Recommendation for California

You want to know where the journey goes? Then I can recommend these books* about California.

You can order these books at Amazon with a click on the pictures. If you buy a product via one of these affiliate links, I get a small commission and you help me to keep filling Fernweh-Motive with interesting articles. The product will not be more expensive for you.

You know Catalina Island? How did you like it? Do you have further tips or maybe a question about my report about Catalina Island? If so, I would be happy about your comments!

Do you want to know when there are new articles on my blog? Then follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram. I would also be very happy if you share my article with your friends.

Recommendations for further Reading

La Paz in Mexico - 5 Highlights at the Baja California

Sea Lions of La Jolla - Tips for Watching and Snorkeling

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Simple outside, spectacular inside

From the outside, the Bradbury Building is rather inconspicuous. With its simple, romanesque façade, it looks like any building in Los Angeles Downtown. But if you take a closer look, you'll find a few little things that indicate that the building has something special about it.

First there's the name tag on the corner of the building. In front of the main entrance there is an information board about the history of the building. And when you go as far as the main entrance, the doormat will show you that you are standing in front of the right building.

As soon as you're inside the building, a Victorian-style light-flooded atrium opens. From here you can see the elegant marble staircases, Mexican tiles, elaborately crafted iron railings and two birdcage elevators.

On the ground floor, a guard will tell you where you can move around the building. That's on the ground floor and up to the first landing of the stairs. From here you have a beautiful view of the atrium. Unfortunately you can't go any further, because the people working here in the offices would feel disturbed.

On the ground floor there is another information board. It informs about the role of the building in the science fiction film Blade Runner (1982).

The History of the Bradbury Building

The millionaire Lewis Bradbury commissioned the famous architect Summer Hunt to design a spectacular office building. George H. Wyman then finalised the design and carried out the construction.

The Bradbury Building was completed in 1893. It is the oldest commercial building in the city centre and the oldest landmark in Los Angeles. It has been listed as a national historic landmark since 1977. Today it is used as an office and commercial building. At the beginning of the nineties the building was completely restored.

Information for your Visit to the Bradbury Building

Address: 304 p. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Nearest underground station: Civic Center / Grand Park
Opening hours: Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 6pm; Saturdays and Sundays from 9am to 5pm.
Duration of visit: about 15 - 30 minutes.
Admission is free.

Los Angeles Conservancy also offers guided tours of historic Los Angeles. This includes a visit to the Bradbury Building. The tour begins at 10 a.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m. on Wednesdays. More information about the tour can be found here.

Book Recommendation for California

You want to know where the journey goes? Then I can recommend these books* about California.

You can order these books at Amazon with a click on the pictures. If you buy a product via one of these affiliate links, I get a small commission and you help me to keep filling Fernweh-Motive with interesting articles. The product will not be more expensive for you.

Have you ever been to the Bradbury Building in Los Angeles yourself? How did you like it? Do you have any questions about my article or suggestions? If so, please write me a comment!

Do you want to know when there are new articles on my blog? Then follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram. I would also be very happy if you share my article with your friends.

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Table of Contents and Quick Navigation

Sightseeing under Water
Alone or with a guided Tour?
Before you go into the Water - Checklist
The Sea Caves La Jolla Caves
Leopard Sharks in "Shark City"
Sea Lions in La Jolla Cove
Kelp Forest
Garibaldi Fish
Photo Tips for your underwater Photos
Tips for the Equipment for Snorkeling in La Jolla
Directions and Accommodation

Sightseeing under Water

In La Jolla you can experience the best that California's underwater world has to offer while snorkeling. Because it is home to an incredible variety of sea creatures and you have perfect conditions to observe them up close. You can also snorkel along the massive cliffs and explore the ancient sea caves. You can either discover the underwater world on your own or take part in a guided snorkeling tour.Most companies offer these tours between March and October. You can even combine your snorkelling tour with a paddle tour on a sit-on-top kajak. Again, there is the opportunity to do this on your own or with a guided tour. Tour operators are for example Scuba San Diego, Everyday California or Scubadivergirls.

La Jolla Underwater Park was founded in 1970 by the city of San Diego and includes both the Ecological Reserve and the Marine Life Refuge. This 6,000 hectare Underwater Park is one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems in the world and is perfect for snorkeling and diving. Another important plus for snorkelling in La Jolla is that it is a restricted area for boats and surfers. There's no danger of you being run over as a snorkeler here. You can see the most beautiful snorkeling spots on the Hiking map .

To the best snorkeling experiences in La Jolla counts in my opinion:

• The Sea Caves "La Jolla Caves"
• Leopard Sharks in "Shark City"
• Sea Lions in La Jolla Cove
• Kelp Forests
• orange Garibaldi Fish

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Alone or with a guided Tour?

I went on a discovery tour on my own. This is cheaper and it is much nicer to do it at your own speed. There are also maps that show the best snorkeling spots. I borrowed missing equipment from a shop in La Jolla. I started my snorkeling tour on the beach at La Jolla Cove, then snorkeled past the sea caves and went ashore again at the beach "Shark City". That was a longer tour of about 90 minutes and I was glad that my wetsuit warmed me up. Afterwards I walked back in my wetsuit to La Jolla Cove. Partly at the road, partly the "Sea lions path". By the way, it's not uncommon for people in wetsuits to walk along the streets. I was thought to be a local and asked for the way to the Cove Store.

A map of the snorkeling and diving spots off La Jolla can be found in the local shops or at Amazon**.

Advantages of a guided tour:

• The group offers snorkeling beginners safety, there is also a briefing at the beginning
• The guide knows where the most beautiful snorkeling spots in La Jolla are and can give you more tips.
• The equipment is provided. Some providers even allow you to keep the equipment for the rest of the day (just ask).

Disadvantages of a guided tour:

• Cost between 60 and 80 euros
• Group size diminishes the nature experience and you do not have the opportunity to snorkel at your own pace.

Tip: In summer, always Saturdays, the San Diego Council of Divers also offers various snorkeling tours. These tours are open to everyone and completely free of charge.

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Before you go into the Water - Checklist

Behind the lifeguard's stand in La Jolla Cove there is a large board with information about the water temperature and the waves. If the swell is more than 3 feet (about 1 meter) it is better not to snorkel into the sea caves. As you approach the rocks of the cave, you'll notice how hard the waves push you back and forth. Blue spots and possibly abrasions would be preprogrammed.

In the morning the waves are usually smaller than in the afternoon or evening. So it's best to start your snorkeling tour early. The best time for snorkeling is between 10 and 14 o'clock, because then the sun is high enough and you have more light under water.

The surf report with the forecast for the wave height can be found here when the bridge opens its lane for ships.

Checklist

• Complete equipment? (Neoprene, boots, fins, mask, snorkel, possibly hood, gloves, lead belt)
• Waterproof camera with you? Battery charged?
• Valuables safely stored? Leave it in your car or hotel. Alternatively, take it with you in a waterproof bag and tie it to your arm.
• Wave height / weather report checked?
• Is it low tide or high tide? This is important to know if you want to go through the shell cave, for example.
• If the conditions are good and you want to snorkel into the caves, take a waterproof torch with you.

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The Sea Caves La Jolla Caves

To the right of the sandy beach La Jolla Cove are the sea caves of La Jolla. There are a total of seven caves, which were cut by the tides and waves here in the approximately 60 -meter-high sandstone cliff. From West to East they are known as: Clam's Cave, Sunny Jim Sea Cave, Arch Cave, Sea Surprise, Shopping Cart, Little Sister and White Lady.

You can snorkel beneath the sandstone cliff and explore the La Jolla Sea caves. In good conditions and with little waves you can even snorkel in some. Some you can explore on foot afterwards. The easiest way to get to the caves is La Jolla Cove beach. There should also be more access from the rocks, but there you have to climb with your snorkeling gear. I did not try these approaches. 

From the beach La Jolla Cove you get to the Clam’s Cave after about five minutes of snorkeling. It is the largest of the seven caves and is even visible from the Coast Boulevard. If the tide permits, you can snorkel or even paddle through the cave.

The other caves can only be seen from the water. Some of them are associated with old stories and legends. For example, it is said about the cave White Lady that here a woman was seized by the flood and washed into the water.

If you can not get into the caves because of the waves, you can still visit one of the sea caves by land. The Sunny Jim Sea Cave was opened in 1902 through an artificial tunnel with 145 steps.The construction of the tunnel lasted two years and was initiated by the German Professor Gustav Schulz. It has since become the only sea cave in La Jolla that can be reached by land. The entrance to the tunnel is in the Cave Store, the oldest shop in La Jolla. Around the Sunny Jim Sea Cave are stories about smugglers of alcohol, opium and immigrants from Asia. The entrance fee is $ 5. The entry into the water is not allowed from the observation deck of the cave, but you can explore the cave from the water and snorkel into it.

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Leopard Sharks in "Shark City"

In summer, thousands of leopard sharks (also called zebra sharks) arrive in the waters off La Jolla. Most of the animals are pregnant females giving birth to their young here. Because here in the shallow warm waters is the nursery of the sharks.The leopard sharks like to lie close to the ground on the sand and can already be seen from above when swimming or kayaking. Right behind the waves breaking on the beach you can see the first animals.

Especially many leopard sharks gather in front of La Jolla in „Shark City“.. Das ist der Strandabschnitt La Jolla Shores nördlich des Restaurants “The Marine Room”. Hier ist auch die Einsatzstelle für Kajaks.

The best season to see the sharks of La Jolla is from the beginning of June to the end of September.During the rest of the year there are about 100-200 leopard sharks that live here all year round.

You can easily spot the leopard sharks: On silver skin are drawn about 13 saddle-shaped bands over the back. They run over the entire length of the shark. Besides the leopard sharks in La Jolla can also see other shark species. These are corn sharks. Furthermore, there are stingrays that like to bury themselves in the sand. So watch out where you step.

The waves are a bit higher at the La Jolla Shores than at the protected La Jolla Cove. This means that just in the surf zone a lot of sand is whirled up and the visibility is slightly worse. The sharks you see in this case only when they are close to you.

The sharks of La Jolla are harmless. However, they are wild animals and you should bring appropriate respect and caution. Do not chase after the sharks and do not surround them. Do not even try to touch them or capture them for a photo (sounds unbelievable, but unfortunately I've been seriously suggested by a dive guide in La Jolla).

Facts about Leopard Sharks

• Length: up to 2 meters
• Weight: up to 18.4 kg
• Distribution: Eastern Pacific from Oregon to the Gulf of California
• Diet: Mussels, crabs, shrimp, squid and fish eggs.
• Reproduction: each female produces between 7 and 36 offspring per breeding season, which measure about 20 centimeters at birth.
• Age: up to 30 years
• Status in the IUCN Red List: Least Concern. Unfortunately, those sharks are kept a lot in aquariums and are also fished and eaten.

Tip: The Scripps Aquarium also offers guided snorkeling tours to the leopard sharks from July to September. The tours are led by trained naturalists and are therefore a great opportunity to learn more about the sharks.

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Sea Lions in La Jolla Cove

The beach at La Jolla Cove is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in La Jolla. This bay is protected by high cliffs. This reduces the surf and improves visibility underwater. The bay is also popular with sea lions. The sea lions like to rest on the rocks that frame the bay on the right and on the left. And mostly some of them are in the water. Then you have the possibility to experience sea lions under water. They seem so clumsy and awkward on land. But under water they are fast and elegant. It is a real pleasure to observe the animals.

Learn more about the sea lions of La Jolla in my separate blogpost.There you will get tips for watching and snorkeling with the animals and you can also see more photos of sea lions.

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Kelp Forest

The California underwater world is known for its kelp forests. Snorkeling or diving in kelp is like experiencing the fourth dimension. It is especially nice to dive through the plants with scuba equipment. Personally, I found it even more beautiful than the colorful reefs in Egypt. And even as a snorkeler it is a great experience to see these gigantic forests from above.

Giant tangle grows in cold water where rocks are found on the seabed. There, the kelp is not rooted like other plants. Instead, he uses a kind of root structure that holds him to the rocks at depths between 12-25 meters. The plants grow up to 45 meters high and often reach the water surface. Air filled floats raise the tang and hold it up. Kelp grows up to 60 centimeters every day, preferably in the cooler winter months and when it gets a lot of sun.

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Garibaldi Fish

Every state of the United States has a state fish. These animal species are considered federal landmarks. The pretty orange Garibaldi fish is the State fish of California.It is found throughout the California coast and is hard to miss because of its color. Its color is particularly beautiful up to about three meters deep. Because here the red light is not so much swallowed by the water. You can see it everywhere at the snorkeling spots off La Jolla. But most often I have seen it in La Jolla Cove and on the rocky sections in front of the sea caves.

The Garibaldi fish is with up to 30 centimeters the largest species of reef perch and is protected in the USA. It lives in the cool waters of the kelp forests and on the rocky coasts of the eastern Pacific from Monterey to Lower California at depths of up to 30 metres.

In addition to the orange Garibaldi you can still sardines, stingrays, octopus, California toothpipes, yellow tails and other fish or, with luck, even discover turtles. You also have a good chance of seeing lobsters, crabs and lobsters.

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Photo Tips for your underwater Photos

If you go snorkelling in La Jolla, you may have a small underwater camera with you to record your underwater experiences. Here you come to my Photo Tips for your underwater Pictures of the La Jolla Sea LionsThe tips are not intended for underwater photographers with high-end camera equipment. Instead, they are a few simple tips that can also be easily implemented with the small fun camera.

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Tips for the equipment for snorkeling in La Jolla

A wetsuit protects you from hypothermia and scuffs from involuntary contact with the numerous rocks. In addition, you get additional lift through the suit and can therefore snorkel longer and more relaxed. In summer, a 3 mm suit is sufficient. In autumn to spring you are well supplied with a 7 mm suit. However, then you have so much buoyancy that you should eventually wear a lead belt with 2 kg weight.

You can borrow missing equipment in one of the snorkelling shops in La Jolla, for example at Everyday California or La Jolla Kayak.

La Jolla Cove is the only stretch of beach in San Diego where swimming aids may not be used. The bay is designated as a bathing, snorkeling and diving area. The use of life jackets, boogie boards or other swimming equipment is not permitted.

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Guided Tours in La Jolla

(Affiliate-Links to Get your Guide)

Directions and Accommodation

La Jolla is a district in the north of San Diego. Coming from Los Angeles, you can reach La Jolla in about 2.5 hours via Freeway 5.Follow La Jolla Village Drive and Torrey Pines Road to Prospect Street and La Jolla Coast Boulevard. Parking is best right in front of the beach on La Jolla Coast Boulevard. Parking time is limited to 2 or 3 hours. You can also park at Prospect Street, Girard Street or one of the public parking lots.

By public transport you can travel from Los Angeles Union Station to San Diego Old Town by Pacific Surfliner 2 hours 45 minutes. From here, take bus number 30 to La Jolla and get off at Torrey Pines Road & Exchange Place for about 50 minutes. The last 800 metres to the beach are on foot.

During my stay in La Jolla I had booked into the hotel La Jolla Suit. The hotel was directly opposite the La Jolla Cove. Due to the location the hotel was a bit more expensive, but it had the following decisive advantages:

• The path to snorkelling and the best sea lion observation points was not far and I did not have to carry my equipment far.
• I did not have to worry about parking.
• I was able to leave all my valuables in the hotel during my snorkeling trips.
• After snorkelling I could go back to my room as I was and immediately take a warm shower.

So the closer the hotel is to the beach, the better.

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Book Recommendation for California

You want to know where the journey goes? Then I can recommend these books* about California.

You can order these books at Amazon with a click on the pictures. If you buy a product via one of these affiliate links, I get a small commission and you help me to keep filling Fernweh-Motive with interesting articles. The product will not be more expensive for you.

Have you ever been snorkeling in La Jolla yourself? How did you like it? Do you have any questions about my article or suggestions? If so, please write me a comment!

Do you want to know when there are new articles on my blog? Then follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram. I would also be very happy if you share my article with your friends.

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time of day

The best time to snorkel in La Jolla is between 10 am and 2 pm. When the sun is higher the fish are more visible and the colours under water are more vivid. In the afternoon there is usually more wind and the water can become more turbulent.

The Colours

Under water, the red tones become less and less visible with increasing depth. Green and blue tones dominate. A magenta filter, which you place in front of the lens of your underwater camera, can help. If you don't have a filter, you can possibly set the white balance of your camera to "under water". Alternatively you can photograph in RAW format and then adjust the white balance during image editing.

Underwater Lamp or Flash

The more sunlight the water brightens up, the better you can see the individual colour spectra under water. If there's not enough sunshine or you're diving too deep, you can use an underwater lamp or underwater flash to restore the color variety.

Half-Half Shots

Now comes one of my favourite photo tips for underwater pictures of the sea lions: Especially beautiful are also so-called half-half shots. So photos, where the lower part of the picture is under water and the upper part is above water. It's not that easy to position the camera exactly during waves. The easiest way to do this is with a larger lens. With a small action camera it takes several attempts until it works. But what definitely works well with a small action camera is the imaging of reflections under the water surface.

Still Images from a Video

Fish or sea lions are damn fast underwater. Often faster than my own reaction speed. So in some of my pictures the animals were cut. Do you know that? To catch the fish and sea lions anyway, you can try the following: Make a video instead of single photos. Then you can create a still from the video. This is easy with the VLC Media Player:: Bis zu der gewünschten Stelle im Video navigieren, dann ein rechter Mausklick auf das Video, im sich öffnenden Fenster “Video” auswählen und dann “Videoschnappschuss” anklicken. Fertig. Inwieweit euch die Qualität des Standbildes aus dem Videos genügt müsst ihr einfach mal mit eurer Kamera ausprobieren.

If you want to edit your videos, for example shorten, cut or join, I can recommend the free video editing program DaVinci Resolve. On YouTube there are several videos with instructions for use.

Back to main article “Schnorcheln in La Jolla – die besten Tipps”.

Here you will find another article that will certainly interest you: “Seelöwen von La Jolla – Tipps fürs Beobachten und Schnorcheln”.

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Table of Contents and Quick Navigation

Gold Rush in Bodie
Bodie becomes a Ghost Town
Impressions from one of California's most beautiful Lost Places
Arrival, Opening Hours, Prices

Gold Rush in Bodie

After the end of the gold smoke in the west of the Sierra Nevada in 1849, the first gold diggers left for the east of the Sierra Nevada. William S. Bodey finally discovered his first gold here in 1859. After him the gold digger settlement was named, which should develop here in the following years from the dust of the Sierra.

Gold mining was initially carried out on a small scale. But then, in 1875, a valuable gold vein was discovered. Bodie boomed and finally had 7000 to 8000 inhabitants. From 1877 to 1881, 30 gold mines and 9 stamp mills were operated in the Bodie district to extract the metals.

But the gold digger settlement Bodie did not only attract gold diggers and traders. Also the bad guys and wild guys came and brought Bodie a corresponding reputation. All together they filled the more than 60 saloons, the brothels and the opium caves in Chinatown.

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Bodie becomes a Ghost Town

But already in 1881 the first mines became unprofitable and had to close. Gold mining was the city's only source of income, so many people lost their jobs and emigrated. In the years 1892 and 1932 two big fires destroyed many buildings. Gold mining continued until 1942 but was finally abandoned in the 1960s. Bodie became a ghost town and the gold mines, which brought in a total of 100 million US dollars worth of gold, were abandoned.

The family of the last major landowner, James. S. Cain has since paid guards to take care of Bodie and protect it from vandalism. In 1962, California State Park bought the old Bodie gold digger settlement to protect the historic buildings and artefacts. Since then the protection has been operated in the sense of a so-called "Arrested Decay". This means that the buildings will not be restored. Only windows, roofs or foundations are repaired.

Bodie Photography Workshops
You will find the best light for photos before sunrise and after sunset. Bodies opening hours don't allow one or the other. But the Bodie Foundation offers photo workshops from mid-May to mid-October. Then you can enter Bodie before sunrise or leave it after sunset. You can register your own workshops with a few people or register with already scheduled groups.

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Impressions from one of California's most beautiful Lost Places

Due to the dry climate the buildings are still in a good condition and the old gold digger settlement Bodie is today the best preserved ghost town of the USA. In many buildings you can still see the interior through the windows. For example in the old Boone Store or in the schoolhouse, which was used as such until 1942. Some buildings may even be entered. Some of them still contain the furnishings. Some buildings are named after their functions, others after the people who lived in them.

In the ghost town Bodie there are still 170 buildings preserved. Among them are beside the old gold mine among other things a church, a school building, a Shell gas station, a shop, a prison, hotels as well as several residential buildings. In addition, there are several rusty cars, carriages and carts that provide great photo motifs. Plan at least two to three hours for your visit. Best in the morning or in the late afternoon, because then the light for taking pictures is at its best. 

Devices from the Red Cloud Mine

The equipment was brought here from the Red Cloud Mine and is now opposite the parking lot. The large wooden structure is called the head frame or gallows frame. It once stood above the lifting gear of the vertical shaft of the mine. Among them are cages that transported miners, ore and rock waste.

The McDonnell / Dolan House

The McDonnell / Dolan house is the first building you see when you come from the parking lot.

The Methodist Church

The Methodist church was built in 1882 and is the only surviving church in Bodie. E.J. Clinton, head of a mining company in the 1920's, had the church restored by his own means. Inside, the benches and the organ are still preserved.

Miners Union Hall (Museum)

Today the museum with a small souvenir shop has moved into the former Miners Union Hall. Here you can also get more information about guided tours and events. The building was built in 1878 and was Bodies centre of social life. It was a meeting place for the Union members, held religious events, balls on Independence Day and masked balls, Christmas parties.

Fire Station

The fire station was rebuilt in 1930 by the California Conservation Corps. The largest fires burned in Bodie in 1892 and 1932. 60 buildings fell victim to the fire in 1892. Unexpected difficulties did not make fire fighting any easier: a valve that could not be opened, blocked water pipes or simply lack of water.

School

The school was built then as Bon Ton Lodging House. It only became a school after the first school was burned down. From 1879 to 1880 the school had its heyday with 615 pupils. It was closed in 1942. Through the windows you can still see the furniture and teaching materials from that time.

The large Gold Mine

The buildings of the large gold mine and the surrounding area are unfortunately not safe. Therefore the area is fenced off and can only be entered as part of a guided tour. These are only offered in summer. Information on guided tours can be found in the museum. The Standard Mill was the most successful of the 30 mining companies that worked in Bodie. The mine has generated more than $18 million in profits over 38 years. The buildings were constructed in 1899 after a fire in 1898 destroyed the original buildings.

Swasey Hotel

Horace F. Swasey bought the two-story hotel in 1894. It also housed a clothes shop and later a casino. As it stands so crooked there it was for me one of the most beautiful cobblestones of the Ghosttown.

Boone Store and Warehouse

The Boone Store and Warehouse, built in 1879, was one of several general stores in the city. The shop fittings are still there.

Wheaton & Luhrs Store

In the early 1880s George H. Wheaton and Nicholas C. Luhrs built their business. On the front façade the later name of the shop - Bodie Store - can still be seen. In 1910 the offices for the Hydroelectric Company, which supplied the city with electricity from the Lundy Canon, were built here. In the 1920s the building was converted into a hotel.

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Arrival, Opening Hours, Prices

You can reach Bodie from Lee Vining via Highway 395 northbound. After 29 kilometres the main road CA-270 E branches off towards Bodie. The last 5 kilometres are a bumpy gravel road, partly with a corrugated iron profile. Why the last 5 kilometres were not also asphalted is a mystery to me. Possibly as an authentic introduction to the historical site of Bodie?

The State Historic Park Bodie is open all year round, in winter (beginning of November to middle of March) from 9 to 16 o'clock, in summer (middle of March to end of October) from 9 to 18 o'clock. However, the road to Bodie is not cleared in winter and is not passable due to the snow. The entrance fee is 8 US dollars.

The ghost town of Bodie is best explored on your own during your visit. A small brochure is helpful, which you can buy at the ticket office for 2 US dollars. A disadvantage, however, is that you are not allowed to visit the old gold mine without a guide. If you want to visit the mine, you can join the daily "Ghost Mill Tour". Three times a summer there are also evening "Ghost Walks".

Bodie lies at an altitude of 2,554 metres. Due to the altitude it can be cold. There are clean and heated sanitary facilities but unfortunately no cafe for warming up. So besides a warm jacket you should also bring your own provisions.

Tip: If you drive through Lee Vining, then I can highly recommend a detour to the beautiful Salt Lake Mono Lake .

Book Recommendation for California

You want to know where the journey goes? Then I can recommend these books* about California.

You can order these books at Amazon with a click on the pictures. If you buy a product via one of these affiliate links, I get a small commission and you help me to keep filling Fernweh-Motive with interesting articles. The product will not be more expensive for you.

Have you ever been to the ghost town of Bodie yourself? How did you like it? Do you have any questions about my article or suggestions? If so, please write me a comment!

Do you want to know when there are new articles on my blog? Then follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram. I would also be very happy if you share my article with your friends.

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Der Beitrag Bodie – Besuch einer Geisterstadt aus Goldgräberzeit erschien zuerst auf Fernweh-Motive.

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Table of Contents and Quick Navigation

The Half Dome in Yosemite National Park
Ascent of the Half Dome
Cables to the Summit of Half Dome
Tips for the Ascent on the Cables
Permit for the Half Dome Cables
The best Season
Weather
Garments
Drinking Water
public toilets
Garbage
Animals
Health and Emergencies
Starting Point, Camp and Parking
Recommendations for the Packing List

The Half Dome in Yosemite National Park

The striking round mountain top of Half Dome was formed by a volcanic eruption with magma outlet below a glacier. It consists of the massive rock granodiorite, which is smooth and largely ungraded.

And what happened to the second half of the Half Dome? Well, there never was one. Seen from the valley it seems that one half of a round dome is missing. But the Half Dome can be seen in its original shape nowadays. During the Ice Age, glaciers sanded the sides of the Half Dome and made them steeper. In addition, rockfalls broke back the northwest wall along a prominent vertical joint and at the top of the Half Dome rock layers peel off like onions.

The Half Dome became widely known through a photograph taken by the American photographer Ansel Adams in 1927. A small gallery with a shop in Yosemite Village shows his most beautiful photographs from the National Park.

Ascent of the Half Dome

The first ascent of the Half Dome took place in 1875 by George Anderson. Today, every year thousands of hikers make their way to the top of the Half Dome. The trail to the icon of the Yosemite National Park is a strenuous hike of about 25 km in length. On the way to the summit, the trail goes almost constantly uphill, sometimes over steep stairs or serpentine-like paths. In total, there are about 1500 metres of altitude to be climbed on the Half Dome. On the last 120 meters of altitude, cables make it possible to climb a gradient of in places over 45° to the summit of the Half Dome.

Depending on how fit you are and how many breaks you take, you will need between 10 and 14 hours to get there and back. It is recommended to start before sunrise. Especially in summer, the temperatures will be more bearable. But even if you start early, it's likely you won't return until after sunset.

The trail to Half Dome is well signposted. There are signs at all junctions. We got along well without map and compass, but we always had a clear view and the trail was well visited. In the dark you have to be careful not to miss any turnoff.

Length of the hike: about 25 km
Height difference: 1500, thereof 120 height meters at the wire ropes
Gradient: up to over 45°
Duration: 10 to 14 hours

But the effort of climbing the Half Dome is worth it. Along the way you have an impressive view of the Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall waterfalls, the Liberty Cap granite dome and the summit of Half Dome. The summit itself offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.

Cables to the Summit of Half Dome

The ascent to the summit of the Half Dome along the wire ropes is the highlight of the hike. As early as 1919, holes were drilled in the rock, into which vertical metal supports were inserted. These supports are then used to guide two wire ropes to the summit at about hip height. In addition to the ropes, wooden planks are laid on the ground above the metal supports. This enables hikers to climb the summit of the Half Dome without special climbing equipment or experience.

Until 2007 there was no known fatal accident on the cables. Since then, however, several people have died. It was not until the summer of 2019 that a young woman crashed. I do not know the background of this accident. If you feel safer and more comfortable climbing, bring a via ferrata set or a rope with a karabiner. Then you can hang up in the most difficult places or if you need a break.

The cables are only attached during the summer months, usually from the end of May to mid-October (between Memorial Day and Columbus Day).

Tips for the Ascent on the Cables

When you've reached the summit on the cables, you've already completed a half-day mountain tour. Time for a long break with a view of the wire ropes. They look extremely steep from below and shy you up a bit when you look at them. But all the hikers who have just made the descent shine all over your face. That motivates you again.

The atmosphere around the cables is characterized by great team spirit. Those who climb up are encouraged. On the other hand, those who have returned to the bottom will be congratulated. On the wire ropes themselves, it is particularly important to communicate with the climbers. Especially with oncoming climbers you have to coordinate how you climb past each other.

Here are the most important tips:

• Drink again, put camera away, put gloves on
• If you have trekking poles with you, leave them downstairs. You don't need them. And if you attach them to the outside of your backpack, they will only interfere with climbing.
• Always run inside the two wire ropes, with both hands on the ropes.
• If you need a break, it's best to take it where the wooden beams are on the ground. This gives you more support and makes it easier for others to climb past you.
• Take the time you need!
• Be patient with slower climbers!
• Communicate with your fellow climbers, for example whether first you yourself or the one who comes towards you goes.
• Have faster climbers overtake if possible.
• Do not try to climb in the rain. The wire ropes and the granite become slippery when wet.
• If there is still dew on the ground or on the ropes early in the morning, let them dry first.
• Do not climb the summit when storm clouds or thunderstorm clouds are nearby.

Permit for the Half Dome Cables

Since the beginning of 2010, a permit has been required to climb the summit. The number of climbers is therefore limited to a maximum of 300 per day. To obtain a permit, you must first register for the lottery on the National Park Administration website . The lottery takes place in March and 250 permits are drawn for each day of the year. It makes sense to enter several days for the selection. If you walk to several, each of you should try your luck with several days to choose from. If you are lucky several times and get too many tickets, you can return them without any problems.

Another way to get permits is on site. The Wilderness Center in the Yosemite Valley offers individual permits for short stays. It's worth asking.

Important: The person on whose name the permits run has to show their ID card to access the summit. Because here a park ranger stands and controls. So don't forget!

The best Season

Yosemite National Park is a popular destination. Every year about 3.7 million visitors come to the national park. This means that it is full in Yosemite Park. For this reason I would avoid visiting the park during the high season or summer holidays in Caliphonia (mostly July and August). Otherwise you can be prepared for traffic jams, parking shortages and long queues for food or drinks.

The Late spring and early autumnare therefore the best times to get to know the National Park in a more relaxed atmosphere. In spring the waterfalls carry more water. The part of the Half Dome Trail leading up to Vernal and Nevada Falls will be a bit wetter and more slippery than in dry autumn.

Weather

Before you start your hike to Half Dome, be sure to check the weather forecast. When rain, storm or even thunderstorm is announced, be prepared that you probably won't reach the summit. When it rains, the wire ropes and granite of the Half Dome are too slippery. Due to the exposed location at the top of the mountain there is also the danger of lightning during thunderstorms. If thunderclouds or storm clouds form nearby, leave the area of the summit.

The internal reception in the Yosemite Valley is miserable. But you can get the current weather forecast either at the reception of your camp or at the Wilderness Center in Yosemite Village.

The summit of the Half Dome is windy and usually 8°C to 11°C cooler than the Yosemite Valley.

Garments

Dress best in the tried and tested onion layer principle. A warming fleece and an Windbreaker jacket will be appreciated early in the morning, during breaks or on the windy summit. On the other hand, the ascents are sweat-inducing, so here you'll be best served with a quick-drying functional shirt or top. Zip trousers are also a great advantage. I have had good experience with one long and one short sport leggin , which I changed on the way.

The way is very uneven, streaked with roots, stones and therefore peppered with numerous stumbling possibilities. Ankle-high hiking boots are therefore a good protection against twisting. For the possibly wet section at the waterfalls as well as for the last meters of altitude on the summit, the shoes need a good grip sole.

Also important is a pair of sturdy gloves with good grip. Because the wire ropes have to be handcrafted. Here you will have to pull yourself up on the ropes for the most part. The bare metal of the wire ropes quickly becomes slippery in combination with sweat. In addition, without gloves you will quickly get blisters on your hands. If you have forgotten your gloves: ask someone who has just descended if he wants to give you his gloves. It worked for us! Please do not leave the gloves on top of the wire ropes after use.

A basecap is also very pleasant for the treeless stretch. Because here you are exposed to the strong sun in the height without protection.

Drinking Water

Even if it makes the backpack heavy: Take enough drinking water with you. The hike is exhausting and you will sweat out a lot of water. A minimum of 4 litres is recommended. Fortunately, you don't have to start with 4 litres. It is enough to start with 2 litres and refill your bottles on the way.

After about three hours you will reach a good spot on the Merced River near Little Yosemite Valley. Here you can refill your drinking water. This place is easily accessible, so you don't have to climb to the waterfalls. The river also carries water in dry summer. There is also a sign indicating the last possible place to fill.

To be on the safe side you should clean the water with disinfectant tablets or a filter or boil it for a few minutes.

But be careful on the stones near the running water and especially above the waterfalls. They can be slippery. There have been many accidents where someone has been washed away by the torrential water of a mountain stream. At the bottom of the Vernal waterfall bridge there is a sign indicating a fatal accident of two boys playing too close to the water.

public toilets

Up to about half of the way there are several toilets along the way:

• Happy Isles
• Vernal Fall Bridge (below Vernal Fall)
• Emerald Pool (above Vernal Fall)
• above the Nevada Fall
• Little Yosemite Valley

If you want to relieve yourself in other places, then you should keep a distance of 30 meters from the water and bury all solids at least 15 cm deep. Also take a garbage bag with you so you can pack the used paper and take it with you.

Garbage

There is no possibility to dispose of garbage on the whole route. So take a bag with you in which you collect your garbage and toilet paper and take it down again. If garbage gets in front of your feet on the way, nature will be happy if you take it down with you.

If you're on the road longer (overnight), you can get bear-safe garbage boxes in the Yosemite Valley.

Animals

During your hike you can observe different animals. The most common is the California squirrel or chipmunk. But even if it's hard: don't feed! Keep wildlife wild!

Auch Black bears can also be found in Yosemite National Park. If you encounter a bear, try to chase it away immediately: make noise, shout and grow up. If there are several of you, get together so that you look even bigger. But make sure you never surround the bear or corner it.

Bears or rodents often search and plunder parked rucksacks for food. So never leave your backpacks unattended, not even at the entrance to the wire ropes. During the day, always keep your backpack or food within reach of your arm or on your back. Also the garbage bag with possibly smelling contents. If you want to stay overnight in the park, get bear-safe food and garbage boxes that you can keep outside the tent.

Health and Emergencies

The most common problems experienced by hikers climbing the Half Dome are overheating, dehydration and insufficient electrolyte supply. So make sure you drink and eat enough and take regular breaks in the shade. Some people also react sensitively to altitude, which results in severe headaches and dizziness. It only helps to get down from the mountain and drink a lot.

f you get into difficulties and need help, then you have the following possibilities:

• At some places on the trail there is mobile phone reception. It is worth a try.
• During the summer the Ranger Station in Little Yosemite Valley is occupied. However, it is possible that the ranger is on the way and not there.
• You can also find a ranger at the access control to the summit of the Half Dome.
• Send someone from your hiking group back to Yosemite Valley.
• If you are on your own: the trail is well frequented, so you will always meet hikers you can ask for help.

Starting Point, Camp and Parking

The trail to the Half Dome begins for most hikers at the Happy Isles. The nearest campsites are Upper Pines, Lower Pines and North Pines. The nearest camp with fixed tents is Curry Village. However, you will need reservations for both the campsites and Curry Village. You should make these reservations as early as possible, as especially in summer everything is booked up very quickly.

We decided for a fixed 4-person tent in Curry Village, which we shared with two friends. In the Curry Village there is a cosy lounge available for you during the day and in the evening. There is also a canteen, a cafe, a bar and a pizzeria. From the Curry Village to the Happy Isles it is about 1.2 kilometres.

If you want to drive to the starting point by car, you can use the parking lot just behind Curry Village. From here it is about 0.8 km to the Happy Isles. There is also a bus stop for the shuttle bus, but it doesn't start until 7am.

Recommendations for the Packing List for the Ascent of the Half Dome

• Robust, non-slip gloves for the cables
• Rain jacket or windbreaker, because at the top of the summit it is usually windy.
• fleece
• Sun protection and headgear
• Trekking poles, especially for descents
• if necessary a via ferrata set or a rope with a karabiner
• First Aid Pack and Blister Plaster
• Water bottles for at least two litres. The bottles can be refilled half way along a river.
• Water disinfection tablets
• Isotonic beverage powder or tablets
• provisions
• Garbage bags
• Identity card (only the one on whose name the tickets for the Half Dome cables run)
• Hiking boots with non-slip sole
• Headlamp with sufficient charge
• Camera

Geführte Touren und Ausflüge im Yosemite Nationalpark

Book Recommendation for California

You want to know where the journey goes? Then I can recommend these books* about California.

You can order these books at Amazon with a click on the pictures. If you buy a product via one of these affiliate links, I get a small commission and you help me to keep filling Fernweh-Motive with interesting articles. The product will not be more expensive for you.

Have you ever climbed Half Dome yourself? How did you like it? Do you have any questions about my article or suggestions? If so, please write me a comment!

Do you want to know when there are new articles on my blog? Then follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram. I would also be very happy if you share my article with your friends.

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Recommendations for further Reading

Giant Sequoias im Mariposa Grove - Yosemite Nationalpark

Mono Lake - Sights and Photo Tips

Der Beitrag Besteigung des Half Dome im Yosemite Nationalpark erschien zuerst auf Fernweh-Motive.

Table of Contents and Quick Navigation

The Pacific Marine Mammal Center
Welcome in the Visitor Area
When does a Seal need Help?
Patient Care
Back to the Sea - the Release of the Animals
Public Relations and Education
More Marine Wildlife Rescue Centers in California

The Pacific Marine Mammal Center

The Pacific Marine Mammal Center is responsible for all marine mammals along the Orange County coastline. The reception station has a capacity for up to 100 animals. Every year, the Mammal Center takes care of 250 to 300 marine mammals. These include seals, sea lions, elephant seals and sea bears. The center is primarily run by volunteers.

Welcome in the Visitor Area

As soon as I enter the visitor area of the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, I am welcomed by one of the volunteers working here. After a short introduction he leads me through the station. First I get to know the seals, then I go up to the training room and then again to the open visitor area. I got a lot of information about the seal species that are recorded here, what happened to the current patients and about the work in the Marine Mammal Center. In addition, numerous information boards provide information about the animals and life in the sea.

During my visit there were three seals and twelve sea lions in the station. The majority of the patients were puppies under one year of age. They were stranded on the beaches of Orange County in the spring and suffered from dehydration and malnutrition. Six of the patients were to be released into freedom on Laguna Beach next weekend.

Visit to the Pacific Marine Mammal Center:
Address: 20612 Laguna Canyon Road Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Opening hours: daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

I could see most of the patients from the visitors area. However, it can also happen that not all patients are visible from the visitor area. If animals are in a critical condition, they are first cared for in the intensive care unit.

A visit to the Pacific Marine Mammal Center is free of charge, but donations are welcome. The center also has a small shop where you can support the center by shopping.

When does a Seal need Help?

A sick or wounded seal will try to get to the beach. But seals also come to the beach to rest, warm up, mate, give birth or change coat. So not all seals lying on the beach need help. Here a trained look and if necessary longer observation is necessary, in order to recognize the needy animals.

There are various reasons why a seal or sea lion may need help:

• Human-induced injuries
• Malnutrition / dehydration. An animal that unfortunately could not be rescued had its stomach full of plastic and died of starvation.
• Injury by fishing tackle or entanglement in fishing lines / hooks
• Caught in fishing nets
• Caught in plastic waste
• Infection with parasites
• pneumonia
• poisonings
• bites of sharks
• Lost helpless young animal (e.g. seek a storm at sea separated from mother)
• young animal, which is not yet able to cope alone after cutting the cord from its mother

Example Sea Elephant:
Sea elephants spend almost their entire life in the sea. They only come ashore to mate and give birth to their young. The young are suckled for four months. The mother then leaves the young. The young must now manage on their own and learn to hunt the food. But some kittens learn this too slowly. If they are lucky, the half-starved animals are found on the beach and then taken to the rescue station. Here the keepers teach them how to hunt for fish, so that they can cope alone in nature afterwards.

Patient Care

The animal is then thoroughly examined in the reception station and wounds are treated. Most patients suffer from malnutrition and/or dehydration. They are first fed with a mixture of electrolytes, proteins, glucose and vitamins via a stomach tube. As soon as the animals are in a more stable state again, they are fed fish three times a day. If necessary, medicines are mixed into the fish.

The seals are marked by a special shave in the fur, so that each can get its individual treatment and if necessary medicine.

On average, the animals spend four months in the sanctuary before being released back into the sea. But sometimes there are also animals that would not survive in the wild. For example, if the animal only has severely impaired vision or has suffered too severe damage. Then, after extensive recovery, it is transferred to a zoo or aquarium.

The caretakers of the animals try to avoid direct contact between seals and humans as far as possible. For example, when feeding, the person holds a black board in front of him. This prevents the animal from associating the food with humans. However, if an animal later comes to the zoo, contact with humans is encouraged through feeding and play.

Back to the Sea - the Release of the Animals

As soon as the wounds have healed, the animal has a healthy weight and successfully competes for food, it can return to freedom. Before release, each animal is given an orange tag with an identification number: the females on the right pectoral fin and the males on the left. The number helps, for example, to identify the animal if it needs help in the future.

The release of the recovered animals is always a solemn event. On the website of the Pacific Marine Mammal Center you can watch several “Release-Videos” . Sometimes the sea lions run towards the water. Another time they don't really know what to do. In a video, three released sea lions push together into a transport box and have to be shaken out again by the keeper. But no matter how the animals reacted, the shots were always very moving. The dates for the release of the animals are announced however only to the promoters and/or members.

Excursus: Under Water
Not only whales and dolphins dive deep. Also seals can reach amazing depths and dive times.

Sea lion (California Sea Lion) - 100 m - 20 minutes
Northern Elephant Seal - 1600 m - 120 minutes
Seal (Pacific Harbor Seal) - 460 m - 40 minutes
Sea Bear (Fur Seal) - 200 m - 90 minutes

More photos of sea lions can be found in my article about the "Sea Lions of La Jolla - Tips for Observing and Snorkeling".

Public Relations and Education

Man only protects what he knows. That's why I think it's especially good that the Pacific Marine Mammal Center also receives and informs visitors. Especially moving are the stories of the individual patients, which are told here by means of pictures. With other free educational programs for children and young people, it makes an important contribution to the development of environmental awareness. The proximity to the animals opens the hearts and creates a connection to nature.

When I was in the States (California) for the first time in autumn 2019, I was shocked by the amount of plastic waste that is produced here every day with a frightening matter of course. Disposable items are used everywhere, even in some restaurants at the tables. Unfortunately, not all of these disposable items and packaging end up in the trash can. In the center I learned that the beach of Laguna Beach has to be cleaned of garbage every day. On days when seals are released, volunteers clean the garbage from the beach. The Pacific Marine Mammal Center therefore explains the problem of plastic waste to its visitors on information boards. Pictures of seals or other animals that have got caught in the plastic open their eyes and hopefully encourage a change in thinking. In interactive games, children also learn how the rain can wash the discarded plastic articles into the sea.

More Marine Wildlife Rescue Centers in California

Pacific Marine Center is not the only marine mammal rescue center in California. There are several stations along the coastline.

• Humboldt and Del Norte Counties – North Coast Marine Mammal Center
• Los Angeles County – Fort MacArthur Marine Mammal Care Center
• San Luis Obispo and Mendocino Counties – Marine Mammal Center
• San Diego County – SeaWorld
• Statewide Whale Rescue Team
• Ventura County – Channel Islands Marine and Wildlife Institute

The Marine Mammal Center in San Luis Obispo and Mendocino Counties also welcomes visitors. There is also a visitor center near San Simeon dedicated to elephant seals. Every year the animals come here to the beach and can be observed well. Young animals can be seen especially well from September to December.

I would never visit SeaWorld because of its highly controversial attitude towards orcas and its shows with the animals. However, I also highly appreciate that SeaWorld is part of the marine mammal rescue network on the California coast. Rescue teams are available around the clock for orphaned, sick, injured or dependent animals. The animals are rehabilitated for return to the wild. However, animals whose injuries are too severe and who can no longer be released into the wild are cared for here for life.

Have you ever been to a sea lion rescue center yourself? How did you like it? Do you have any questions about my article or suggestions? If so, please write me a comment!

Recommendations for further Reading

Sea Lions of La Jolla - Tips for Watching and Snorkeling

Santa Catalina Island - Travelogue, Tips and Highlights

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Der Beitrag Besuch des Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach erschien zuerst auf Fernweh-Motive.