While whales may be the absolute largest animal that can be seen in California, the elephant seal is by far the largest animal that can be seen on land. These massive animals are really heavy – with males weighing up to 8,200 pounds and 16 feet in length. Females grow up to 11.8 feet in length and weigh up to 1,980 pounds.

Elephant seals got their name because of their tremendous size and the long pendulous noses of the males. These giants spend most of their lives at sea but come ashore to molt, give birth, and mate. It is possible to see elephant seals at the Piedras Blancas Rookery throughout the year. These animals are also among the loudest creatures in the state.