Laguna Beach, California: Pacific Marine Mammal Center; things to do

Pacific Marine Mammal Center  

20612 Laguna Canyon Rd., (going east, look for the dog park on the south side of road just before), (949) 494-3050.  Daily 10-4.  Free. 

rescued seal at Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach, California

See rescued seals, sea lions, and elephant seals being rehabilitated for release in this very small facility.  It is hands-off of these pinnipeds for everyone, even staff, though Sage, because she is an unreleasable orphan sea lion, is treated like a diva with plenty of toys and human interaction.  When I visited in October at the end of the season, only three seals were in residence, but more than 250+ animals are rescued each year so sometimes it can get crowded.  A white egret named Gracie, who is actually a he, lives in an adjacent tree and comes regularly to visit and steal fish. Many artists have their studios along the highway leading here, so allow time to stop.

rescued white egret at Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach, California

More animal attractions.

More things to do in Laguna Beach. 

More ideas for exploring the U.S.

images c2012 Carole Terwilliger Meyers