Natural Things to Do in Santa Cruz:
May - August
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May:
Harbor Seal pupping season ends this month at Elkhorn Slough, Bean Hollow State Beach and Wilder Ranch State Park.
Final migration of Gray whale cow-calf pairs pass this region. Best viewing is by boat, along the Davenport coastline and from State Park beaches. This is also the start of Blue and Humpback whale migration and are best seen from whale watching boats.
Juvenile California Sea Lions swim area waters and find homes at the Santa Cruz Wharf and at Seal Rock located offshore from Lighthouse Point.
Many sea birds have changed into breeding plumage and are in the area before heading to various breeding grounds. Commonly seen species include the Sooty Shearwaters.
May-July:
Snowy Plovers are nesting at area beaches - please watch your step!
June-August
Stellar seals are seen on the island at Año Nuevo State Reserve.
Blue and Humpback whales are in their migratory season and best seen from a whale watching boat.
August
This is primary birding time in the area's forests and mountain regions. State Parks offer many wilderness trails to good birding sites.
Find Out More! 
Find Out More!