Seawatch Wednesdays!

Pt Pinos Seawatch Field Trip

Every winter, Monterey Audubon sponsors a dedicated Seawatch to count seabirds migrating past Point Pinos at the tip of the Monterey Peninsula. Thanks to its unique geography, Pt Pinos is the premier location on the West Coast to observe seabirds from shore. In late fall, thousands of loons, Surf Scoters, and other seabirds stream past “The Point,” flying close to the coast as they follow the contour of the peninsula on their southward journey.

For this field trip, we’ll station ourselves at Point Pinos, joining the same vantage point used by Monterey Audubon Society’s official seabird counter, Alison Vilag. From this location, we’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific and have spotting scopes available to share. Although daily conditions can vary, we expect to see a fascinating mix of loons, scoters, sea ducks, and murres flying by. With some luck, truly pelagic species such as shearwaters, jaegers, phalaropes, or fulmars might also make an appearance—each one a thrilling highlight to witness from shore.

Seawatching is both dynamic and meditative. Seabirds often appear as flashes of white, gray, and black as they skim the waves, and identifying them depends more on flight patterns and subtle impressions than on plumage details. It’s a practice in patience and presence—a perfect way to celebrate the start of our Seawatch season and deepen your understanding of the birds that call the open ocean home.

In addition to the birds: There’s much more to appreciate from this spectacular vantage point:

• Marine mammals, including sea otters and, if we’re lucky, passing whales or dolphins.

• The newly constructed Pt Pinos Coastal Trail.

• Ray Troll’s striking ocean-inspired mural on the old NOAA building nearby.

Trip Difficulty: This is a stationary program with minimal walking on even ground near the parking area. It’s an excellent opportunity for beginners and anyone interested in learning about seabirds or experiencing the excitement of migration season up close.

What to Wear: The weather at Pt Pinos feels more like the open ocean than downtown Monterey. Even on sunny days, expect cold, gusty winds. Dress in warm layers and bring a hat or windbreaker to stay comfortable.

Trip Leader: Depending on the week you may see Executive Director Shannon Simpson, and various other board members including Kai Russell and Fred Hochsteadter.

Meet: At the Point Pinos parking area near the lighthouse in Pacific Grove. Free parking is available nearby.

Facilities: Public restrooms are available along the nearby Coastal Trail.

Questions and RSVP: For general questions, email info@MontereyAudubon.org No RSVP necessary for this outing!

Bring: Binoculars (or borrow one of ours) and an interest in learning about seabirds!