The image shows a scenic coastal landscape during sunset. The foreground features rugged, reddish-brown cliffs with some vegetation. Below the cliffs, there is a rocky shoreline with scattered boulders and small pools of water. The ocean stretches out to the horizon, with gentle waves rolling in. The sky is a gradient of colors, transitioning from a soft orange near the horizon to a pale blue higher up, indicating the sun is setting. The overall atmosphere is calm and serene, with warm tones from the setting sun illuminating the scene.
What is in the Tidepools

What’s in the Tidepools? – January 2025

What’s In the Tidepools? – January 2025

(Anemone – NPS Photo/M. Rose)

Here is a sampling of what our volunteers observed during this busy month — thank you to everyone who contributed. Along with the king tides, we also had Whale Watch Weekend. We have lots of Bat Stars, we have lots of Sea Hares, we have anemones, we have crabs, we have keyhole limpets, we have a major bluff collapse, we have a horse, we even have photos from Whale Watch Weekend! Remember to send in your photos; we truly appreciate sharing them with everyone.

Don’t forget to visit the Tidepool Videos page and our YouTube page.

Enjoy the virtual visit through the tidepools.

Bat Stars, Knobby Sea Stars, Brittle Stars

One Bat Star was even referred to as a Bat Asterisk. See if you can find it.

NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a starfish submerged in shallow water, resting on a sandy surface. The starfish is orange with a rough texture. Around it, there are various types of seaweed, including some with small, round, yellowish-brown air bladders. There are also some long, thin green strands of sea grass. A large, white rock with brown and green algae on it is partially visible on the right side of the image. The water is clear, allowing the details of the starfish and surrounding marine life to be seen clearly.
Bat Star – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a tide pool with various marine life and rocks. In the center, there is an orange starfish resting on the rocks. Surrounding the starfish are different types of seaweed, including some long, brown strands and a round, bulbous piece. The rocks in the pool are of various sizes and colors, with some having small holes and patches of pinkish coral-like growths. The water is clear, allowing a good view of the underwater scene.
Bat Star – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a starfish partially submerged in water. The starfish is orange and has five arms, with a textured surface. It is resting on a rocky surface that is covered with some algae and small marine plants. The water is clear, allowing the details of the starfish and the surrounding environment to be visible. There are also some thin, long strands of seaweed or grass in the water near the starfish.
Bat Star – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a small red starfish underwater in a shallow tide pool. The water is clear, allowing a view of the sandy and rocky bottom. There are some brown seaweeds floating on the surface and submerged in the water. A person's finger is gently touching the water near the starfish, creating small ripples. The scene captures a natural marine environment with a focus on the starfish.
Bat Star – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a starfish underwater in a shallow tide pool. The starfish is pinkish in color and has five arms. It is resting on a sandy and rocky bottom, surrounded by various types of seaweed and algae. The water is clear, allowing a good view of the starfish and the surrounding marine environment. There are some reflections on the water surface, and the seaweed appears to be floating above the starfish.
Bat Star – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a small tide pool with a bright orange starfish resting on the rocky and sandy bottom. The starfish has five arms and is surrounded by various small pebbles and shells. There are some patches of seaweed and algae around it, including a dark green piece of seaweed extending across the pool. In the lower right area of the image, there is a cluster of white sea foam bubbles floating on the water's surface. The water is clear, allowing a good view of the starfish and the surrounding underwater environment.
Bat Star – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a starfish lying on a sandy seabed. The starfish has a classic five-arm shape and is a reddish-brown color. The sand around it is light-colored with small pebbles and bits of seaweed scattered throughout. The water is clear, allowing for a good view of the starfish and the surrounding sand. There are also some shadows and reflections visible on the sand, likely from the sunlight filtering through the water.
Bat Star – NPS Photo/S. Kristiansen
The image shows a starfish resting on a rocky surface in a tidal pool. The starfish is orange with a textured surface and has five arms. Surrounding it are rocks and some shells, with a few small patches of water visible. The environment appears to be a coastal area, likely at low tide, where marine life is exposed.
Bat Star – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a close-up view of a rocky tide pool area. In the center, there is a starfish partially hidden under a rock. The starfish has a textured surface with small, round, blue and white bumps along its arms. Surrounding the starfish are various types of marine life, including red and pink seaweed or algae attached to the rocks. The rocks have a rough texture and are covered with small barnacles and other marine organisms. The overall scene is a natural marine habitat, likely found along a coastal area.
Knobby Sea Star – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a starfish resting on a rocky and seaweed-covered surface. The starfish has a distinctive appearance with a dark body covered in small, round, raised bumps that are pinkish-purple with white tips. The surrounding area is a mix of brownish and greenish seaweed and algae, giving a natural and textured background to the scene. The lighting suggests it is a sunny day, highlighting the colors and textures of both the starfish and the surrounding environment.
Knobby Sea Star – NPS Photo/S. Kristiansen
The image shows a starfish partially submerged in a tide pool. The starfish has a distinctive appearance with a dark blue or purple body covered in numerous small, raised, circular nodules that are pinkish or light purple in the center with a blue ring around them. The starfish is surrounded by various types of seaweed and algae, which are brown, red, and green in color. The sunlight casts shadows and highlights the textures of the starfish and the surrounding seaweed.
Knobby Sea Star – NPS Photo/S. Kristiansen
The image shows a shallow body of water with a clear view of the bottom. Submerged in the water is a brittle star, a type of echinoderm related to starfish. It has a central disc-shaped body with five long, slender, and flexible arms that are banded in appearance. The water is clear enough to see the rocky and pebbly substrate beneath, along with some seaweed and other aquatic vegetation. There are also a few small bubbles or foam patches floating on the surface of the water.
Brittle Star – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a brittle star, a type of echinoderm, underwater. It has a central disc-shaped body with long, slender, and flexible arms extending outwards. The water is clear, allowing a view of the rocky and sandy bottom beneath, which is scattered with small stones and some seaweed or aquatic plants. The brittle star's arms have a banded pattern, making them somewhat camouflaged against the background. There are also a few small air bubbles and floating debris on the water's surface.
Brittle Star – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a brittle star, a type of echinoderm, lying on a bed of green seagrass. The brittle star has a central disc-shaped body with five long, slender, and flexible arms extending from it. The arms are textured and appear to have small spines or bumps along their length. The seagrass beneath the brittle star is submerged in shallow water, and the blades of grass are long and narrow, crisscrossing each other. The overall setting suggests a marine environment, likely a tidal or shallow coastal area.
Brittle Star – NPS Photo/M. Rose
The image shows a starfish resting on the sandy bottom of a shallow body of water. The starfish is orange with a textured surface and has five arms. Surrounding the starfish are patches of green sea grass and some brown and purple seaweed. The water is clear, allowing the details of the sand and marine life to be visible. The sunlight creates patterns on the sand and highlights the starfish and surrounding vegetation.
Bat Star or a Bat Asterisk?- NPS Photo/S. Kristiansen
The image shows a close-up view of a tide pool or rocky shore area. There are clusters of small, round, shiny objects that resemble sea anemones or barnacles attached to the rocks. These objects have a bluish-purple hue with a pearly appearance. The surrounding area is wet, with water covering parts of the rocks, and there are various small marine plants and algae in shades of red and brown. The surface of the rocks appears rough and textured, with some areas covered in sand or sediment. The overall scene suggests a coastal marine environment.
Knobby Sea Star – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a close-up view of a rocky tide pool area covered with various types of seaweed and marine life. The seaweed is predominantly brown and reddish in color, with some lighter yellowish patches. Among the seaweed, there is a camouflaged sea star whose skin displays a pattern of colorful, circular spots in shades of blue and pink. The sea star is partially hidden among the seaweed, blending in with its surroundings. The water in the tide pool is clear, allowing a view of the marine life beneath the surface.
Knobby Sea Star – NPS Photo/D. Orr

Sea Hares

The image shows a tide pool scene with various marine elements. In the center, there is a large, shiny black sea slug or sea hare partially submerged in water. Around it, there are several types of seaweed, including long, brownish-yellow fronds hanging down from the top right. On the left side, there is a cluster of pink, curly strands that resemble sea anemone tentacles or possibly a type of marine worm. The background consists of a rocky surface covered with reddish-brown algae or barnacles. The water is clear, revealing some small pebbles at the bottom of the pool.
Black Sea Hare with eggs- NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a close-up view of a rocky surface at the edge of a tide pool. The rocks are covered with various types of marine life, including algae and small sea plants. In the center of the image, there is a cluster of pale pink, tubular structures that resemble sea anemone tentacles or possibly egg sacs. The surrounding area is wet, indicating the presence of water, and there are different shades of green and brown algae attached to the rocks. The tide pool water is visible in the lower part of the image, reflecting some of the surrounding environment.
Sea Hare Eggs – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a dark, shiny object lying on a sandy surface with patches of dried seaweed and grass around it. The object appears to be a large, black, leathery egg case, often referred to as a "mermaid's purse," which is typically associated with certain species of sharks and rays. The surrounding area is a mix of sand and scattered seaweed, giving the impression of a beach or coastal environment.
Black Sea Hare – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a tide pool scene with various marine life. In the center, there is a large, dark, shiny sea slug or sea hare nestled among the rocks. The creature is surrounded by wet rocks covered in algae and seaweed. There is a mix of green and reddish-brown seaweed and algae around the rocks, adding texture and color to the scene. The environment appears to be a rocky shoreline or intertidal zone, where the sea slug is partially submerged in water.
Black Sea Hare – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a close-up view of a rocky and sandy area, likely part of a tide pool or coastal environment. There are various textures and colors present, including patches of dark brown and purple seaweed or algae scattered across the surface. In the center, there is a large, dark, smooth rock with a slightly shiny appearance, partially submerged in a shallow pool of water. To the left, there is a smaller, lighter-colored rock with a smooth surface. The surrounding area is covered with a mixture of sand, small pebbles, and more seaweed or algae, creating a natural and rugged coastal scene.
Black Sea Hare – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a large, dark-colored sea slug partially submerged in shallow water. Its body is smooth and shiny, with a slightly wrinkled texture. The slug has a broad, flat shape with a rounded end and a tapering end that appears to have a small protrusion or horn-like structure. The water around the slug is clear, revealing some sand and small rocks on the bottom, as well as a few strands of green seaweed and patches of reddish-brown algae. The sunlight reflects off the water and the slug's body, creating bright highlights.
Black Sea Hare – NPS Photo/D. Wieder

Crabs, Anemones and Nudibranchs, Oh My

The image shows an underwater scene with a variety of marine life on a rocky surface. In the center, there is a pinkish-orange sea anemone with multiple tentacles radiating outward. The surrounding area is covered with various small marine organisms, including patches of pink and white coralline algae and other encrusting life forms. The water is clear, allowing a good view of the details on the rocky surface.
Brooding Anemone – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a close-up view of a sea anemone. The anemone has a circular shape with a central mouth surrounded by numerous tentacles. The tentacles are a mix of pale green and beige colors, and they have a slightly curled appearance at the tips. The body of the anemone has a radial pattern with alternating light and dark green stripes. There is some dark red seaweed or algae partially covering the anemone on the left side. The anemone is situated on a rocky surface with small bits of shell and sand visible around it.
Anemone – NPS Photo/M. Rose
The image shows a tide pool with a sea anemone submerged in clear water. The sea anemone is centered in the image, displaying a circular shape with numerous tentacles that are light blue with hints of purple and green. Surrounding the anemone are various rocks, some covered with green algae. The sandy bottom of the tide pool is visible, with small pebbles and bits of seaweed scattered around. The water is calm, allowing for a clear view of the underwater scene.
Anemone – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a rocky tide pool with several sea anemones nestled among the rocks. The anemones are mostly green with hints of blue and have numerous tentacles surrounding their central disc. The rocks around them are covered in patches of dark algae and small shells. The tide pool is shallow, with clear water allowing a view of the sandy and pebbly bottom. The scene captures a typical coastal marine environment.
Anemones – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a close-up view of a sea anemone in a tide pool. The sea anemone has a circular shape with numerous tentacles radiating outward. The tentacles are translucent with a hint of green, and the center of the anemone is a vibrant green color. The surrounding area is filled with water, and there are various types of marine life and algae visible, including brown and reddish seaweed. The tide pool is shallow, and the water is clear, allowing a good view of the anemone and its surroundings. The surface of the water has some reflections and small bubbles.
Anemone – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a small tide pool surrounded by rocky terrain and some seaweed. In the center of the pool, there is a sea anemone with light green tentacles and a slightly darker center. The surrounding rocks are covered with various types of algae and seaweed, and there are some thin, green strands of grass or seaweed draped over the rocks. The water in the pool is clear, allowing a view of the anemone and some of the rocky bottom.
Anemone – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows an underwater scene in a shallow tide pool. There is a pink sea anemone with feathery tentacles attached to a rock. The water is clear, allowing a view of the sandy and rocky bottom, which is covered with small shells and bits of seaweed. Long, thin strands of green seagrass are also visible, crisscrossing over the scene. The rocks have patches of dark and light colors, possibly due to algae or other marine growth. The overall appearance is natural and serene, typical of a coastal marine environment.
Hopkins Rose Nudibranch – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a crab partially hidden in a crevice of a rocky surface. The crab's claws and part of its body are visible, with its claws being a prominent white color with some reddish-brown markings. The rock surface is layered and has a rough texture, with several small, round, and ridged shells attached to it, likely barnacles or limpets. The overall scene suggests a coastal or marine environment where the crab is using the rock crevice as a hiding spot.
Rock Shore Crab – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a close-up of a small, vibrant pink sea anemone attached to a rocky surface in a tide pool. The anemone has numerous tentacles that are radiating outward. The surrounding area is wet, with water visible at the bottom of the image, and the rocky surface is textured with various shades of brown and green, indicating the presence of algae or other marine growth. The lighting creates a shimmering effect on the water and rocks.
Hopkins Rose Nudibranch – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a crab partially covered in sand, sitting on a bed of green seagrass or seaweed. The crab's shell and legs are visible, with the shell having a rough, textured appearance due to the sand. The crab's claws are also visible, and it appears to be in a natural, aquatic environment. The seagrass is wet, suggesting the presence of water nearby.
Rock Crab – NPS Photo/M. Rose
The image shows a crab lying on its back on a bed of green seaweed. The crab's shell is covered in sand and small particles, giving it a rough texture. Its legs and claws are visible, with the claws being a darker color at the tips. The seaweed around the crab is long and thin, with a glossy appearance, and there is some water visible among the seaweed strands.
Rock Crab – NPS Photo/M. Rose
The image shows a shallow underwater scene at the beach. There is a crab partially buried in the sand, blending in with its surroundings due to its sandy color. To the left of the crab, there is a large, oval-shaped shell with a mix of pink and brown colors. Green seaweed or seagrass is visible in the upper part of the image, floating in the water. The sand is speckled with small pebbles and shells, and the sunlight creates a dappled effect on the underwater scene.
Rock Crab – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a close-up view of a small tide pool in a rocky area. The pool contains clear water, revealing a sandy and rocky bottom with some small pebbles and patches of algae or seaweed. There is a red crab partially hidden under an overhanging rock at the top of the image. The surrounding rocks are covered with various types of marine growth, including barnacles and small purple and brown algae. The scene captures a natural coastal environment, likely at low tide.
Kelp Crab – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a small sea creature, likely a type of nudibranch or sea slug, in a shallow tide pool. The creature is pale in color, possibly white or light beige, with several distinct circular brown spots on its body. It is surrounded by various types of marine vegetation and algae, including red and green algae, which are attached to the rocky surface of the tide pool. The water is clear, allowing a good view of the creature and its surroundings.
San Diego Dorid – NPS Photo/D. Orr
Opalescent Nudibranch – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a close-up view of a small marine environment, likely a tide pool. In the center, there is a bright orange sea anemone with numerous tentacles radiating outward, giving it a flower-like appearance. The anemone is submerged in water, and its vibrant color contrasts with the surrounding environment. There are several long, thin green strands of sea grass or algae crisscrossing over and around the anemone. The background consists of a mix of brownish and greenish hues, likely from rocks, sand, and other aquatic plants. The water is clear, allowing a good view of the anemone and its surroundings.
Brooding Anemone – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a marine scene with a sea creature, likely a type of sea snail or mollusk, in a tide pool. The creature has a smooth, shiny, brownish shell and a soft body with a bright orange, frilly structure that resembles a sea anemone or a cluster of tentacles. This part is likely the snail's foot or mantle. The surrounding area is filled with brownish-red seaweed and algae, and the water is clear, allowing the sandy bottom to be visible. The scene captures the intricate details of the marine life and the textures of the seaweed.
Brooding Anemone – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a tide pool with various marine life and seaweed. In the center, there is an orange sea anemone with tentacles spread out. Surrounding it, there are different types of seaweed, mostly in shades of purple and brown. In the upper left corner, there is a piece of brown seaweed with bubbles on it, floating on the water's surface. The water is clear, allowing a view of the sandy and rocky bottom of the tide pool.
Brooding Anemone – NPS Photo/T. Woods

Keyhole Limpets and other Snails

See the Wavy Turban Snail fully exposed and the Chestnut Cowry using its fleshy mantle to polish its shell.

The image shows a close-up of a marine creature known as a keyhole limpet. It has a distinctive shell that is oval-shaped with a central hole, resembling a keyhole. The shell has a textured, rough surface with a pattern of dark and light brown colors. The surrounding area appears to be a rocky surface with some seaweed and algae, indicating a tide pool or coastal environment. The limpet is attached to the rock, which is typical for these types of marine mollusks.
Keyhole Limpet – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a close-up view of a tide pool area with several rocks partially submerged in water. In the center of the image, there is a large, round, brownish object that resembles a sea anemone or a similar marine organism. It has a circular, textured surface with a central opening that appears to be slightly raised. The surrounding rocks are covered in algae and other marine growth, and the water is clear, allowing the details of the rocks and the organism to be visible. The scene suggests a coastal or rocky shoreline environment.
Keyhole Limpet with shell partially exposed- NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a large, dark, oval-shaped sea creature, likely a sea anemone or a similar marine organism, partially submerged in water among rocks. The creature has a smooth, slightly textured surface with a central opening that appears darker. The surrounding rocks are various shades of brown and gray, some with patches of algae or other marine growth. The water is clear, allowing a good view of the creature and the rocks beneath the surface.
Keyhole Limpet , same one as previous photo but with shell covered- NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a close-up of a sea anemone attached to a rocky surface in a tide pool. The anemone has a circular shape with a central opening, surrounded by a pattern of brown and beige radial markings that resemble a flower. The texture of the anemone appears soft and fleshy. Around the anemone, there are patches of green algae and some reddish-brown seaweed, as well as small grains of sand and bits of shell on the surrounding rock surface. The environment is wet, indicating it is in a marine setting.
Keyhole Limpet – NPS Photo/M. Rose
The image shows a marine creature, likely a limpet, attached to a rock in a tide pool. The limpet has a conical shell with a circular opening at the top, which is slightly raised and has a darker coloration. The shell is mostly light gray with some darker bands and textures. The surrounding area is wet, with water partially covering the limpet and the rock, and there are some small patches of marine algae or seaweed nearby. The rock surface is uneven and has a greenish hue with some brownish areas.
Keyhole Limpet – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a close-up of a marine creature, likely a type of sea snail or limpet, attached to a rock surface. The creature has a distinctive shell that appears to be circular with a central hole, resembling a volcano or a crater. The shell has a dark, mottled pattern on the outer edge and a lighter, almost wood-like texture towards the center. The surrounding rock surface is covered with various types of marine algae and small plants, giving it a rough and textured appearance. There are also some greenish and brownish hues on the rock, indicating the presence of moss or other small marine organisms.
Keyhole Limpet – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a close-up view of a marine environment, likely a tide pool. In the center, there is a large, circular sea anemone attached to a rock. The anemone has a smooth, brownish outer body with a central disc that is light green and has a small opening in the middle. Surrounding the anemone are various types of seaweed and algae, which are reddish-brown in color. The rock surface and the surrounding area appear wet, indicating the presence of water.
Keyhole Limpet – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a close-up of a cowrie shell nestled in a rocky surface covered with green algae. The shell is smooth and glossy, displaying a gradient of colors ranging from deep red and orange at the top to lighter shades of brown and cream towards the bottom. The shell's surface is highly reflective, capturing the reflection of a person wearing a red shirt. The surrounding rock is textured and covered with patches of green algae, adding a natural, earthy backdrop to the vibrant shell.
Chestnut Cowry – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows an underwater scene featuring a marine creature, likely a type of sea slug or nudibranch. It has a soft, translucent body with intricate patterns and colors, including shades of white, orange, and red. The creature is surrounded by various types of seaweed and marine plants, which are brown and green in color. The water is clear, allowing a detailed view of the creature and its surroundings. The scene appears to be in a shallow part of the ocean or a tide pool.
Wavy Turban Snail fully exposed – NPS Photo/D. Hunt
The image shows a marine scene with a cowrie shell partially submerged in a tide pool. The shell is smooth and glossy with a pinkish hue and dark spots. Surrounding the shell are various types of marine life, including purple and brown algae or seaweed attached to rocks. The water in the tide pool is clear, allowing a view of the sandy and rocky bottom. The overall setting appears to be a coastal area with intertidal zones.
Chestnut Cowry using its fleshy mantle to polish its shell – NPS Photo/D. Hunt
The image shows a close-up view of a natural scene at a beach or rocky shoreline. There is a large shell or rock in the center, covered with a cluster of reddish-purple seaweed or algae. Surrounding the shell are patches of sand and other small rocks. To the left, there is a section of dark, glossy seaweed with small, round air bladders, which is likely a type of brown algae. The overall scene is a mix of textures and colors, with the wet seaweed contrasting against the sandy background.
Kellets Whelk – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a close-up view of a tide pool at the edge of a rocky area. In the center of the pool, there is a partially submerged shell of a marine creature, likely an abalone or a similar mollusk. The shell has a series of ridges or lines running across it, and it is surrounded by water. Around the edges of the pool, there are various types of marine life, including small algae and seaweed, as well as some barnacles or other small organisms attached to the rocks. The colors in the image are mostly earthy tones, with shades of brown, green, and beige.
Conspicuous Chiton – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a close-up of a marine creature, likely a sea anemone or a similar organism, attached to a rocky surface. The creature has a smooth, brown, dome-shaped body with a circular opening in the center, which resembles a spiral pattern. Surrounding the creature are various types of seaweed or algae, mostly in shades of dark red and brown, with some green patches. The environment appears to be a tide pool or a rocky coastal area.
Keyhole Limpet – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a marine scene featuring a sea slug, specifically a type of nudibranch, resting on a rock in a tide pool. The sea slug has a smooth, elongated body with a prominent yellow-orange underside and a mottled, brownish top with black markings. The rock it is on is covered with various types of marine life, including algae and small barnacles, giving it a textured appearance. Surrounding the rock are other small rocks and pebbles, with patches of pink and green algae visible. The water in the tide pool is clear, allowing a good view of the marine life.
Upside Down Keyhole Limpet – NPS Photo/D. Orr

Bluff Collapse

The image shows a coastal scene with a rugged, rocky shoreline. The foreground features layered rock formations with sharp edges, creating a jagged appearance. Waves from the ocean are crashing against the rocks, sending up sprays of water. The coastline extends into the distance, with more rocky cliffs and a hill covered in sparse vegetation. Two people are standing on the edge of the cliff, looking out towards the ocean. The sky is clear and blue, indicating a sunny day. Shadows from the rocks and possibly the people are cast on the ground, adding depth to the scene.
Bluff Collapse – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a rocky coastline with the ocean in the background. The waves are crashing against the rocks, creating white foam. The foreground is filled with various sizes of jagged, layered rocks and stones, mostly in shades of brown and beige. There is a shadow of a person taking the photo, visible on the rocks, with their arms raised, possibly holding a camera or phone. The ocean water is a deep blue, transitioning to lighter shades near the shore where the waves are breaking.
Bluff Collapse – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a rugged coastal cliff made of layered rock formations. The cliff face is steep and composed of dark, jagged rocks that appear to have been eroded over time. At the base of the cliff, there is a pile of broken rocks and boulders, likely from rockfalls. The sunlight casts shadows on the rocks, highlighting their rough texture. In the foreground, there is a small pool of water reflecting the sky, suggesting that the area might be near the sea or a body of water. The overall scene is natural and untouched, with a sense of raw, geological beauty.
Bluff Collapse – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a rocky coastal area with a view of the ocean in the background. The foreground features a large, flat rock surface with visible cracks and textured patterns, possibly from erosion or natural formations. The middle section of the image has a collection of smaller, jagged rocks and stones scattered across the surface. In the background, the ocean waves are crashing against the rocks, creating white foam. The overall scene depicts a rugged and natural coastal landscape.
Bluff Collapse – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a rocky coastal area with layers of sedimentary rock formations. The rocks are jagged and uneven, with a variety of sizes and shapes. The left side of the image features a vertical rock face with distinct horizontal layers, while the right side shows a slope of loose rocks and debris leading down to the water. In the background, waves are crashing against the rocks, and the ocean is visible with its blue-green water. The scene is bright and sunny, highlighting the textures and colors of the rocks and water.
Bluff Collapse – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a rugged coastal landscape with rocky cliffs and a shoreline. The cliffs are composed of layered rock formations, creating a jagged and uneven surface. In the foreground, there is a large boulder resting on a flat rock surface, surrounded by smaller rocks and debris. The ocean is visible in the background, with waves crashing against the rocks. The sunlight reflects off the wet surfaces, creating a shimmering effect on the water and rocks. The scene conveys a sense of natural beauty and the raw power of the sea.
Bluff Collapse – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a rocky coastal area with layered sedimentary rock formations. The rocks are stacked in horizontal layers, creating a striking visual effect. Some of the rock layers have eroded, forming a small cave-like indentation. There is a pile of broken rocks and debris at the base of the formation, likely from erosion or rockfall. The ground is a mix of rock and sand, and there is a small amount of water visible, possibly from the ocean nearby. In the background, there are a few people walking along the top of the rock formation, giving a sense of scale to the scene. The lighting suggests it is a sunny day, casting shadows across the rocks.
Bluff Collapse – NPS Photo/P. Geisler

Whale Watch Weekend

The image shows a person dressed in a park ranger uniform standing next to someone in a dolphin costume. The park ranger is wearing a wide-brimmed hat, a green jacket, and dark pants, and is holding a clipboard. The dolphin costume is light gray and white, with large cartoonish eyes and a big smile. The person in the costume is also wearing a straw hat. They are standing under a covered area with a backdrop that has the "Hubbs SeaWorld Research Institute" logo repeatedly printed on it. The setting appears to be outdoors, with trees and a view of the ocean in the background. Both individuals are smiling and posing for the photo.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/C. Spence
The image shows a group of people gathered around a table covered with a blue tablecloth that has the logo and text "San Diego Bird Alliance" on it. The table is set up in a covered outdoor walkway with a wooden ceiling. There are various pamphlets and informational materials displayed on the table. Several people are engaged in conversation or looking at the materials. Above the walkway, there is a sign that reads "EXHIBITS." The setting appears to be an event or fair, possibly related to bird conservation or education.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/C. Spence
The image shows two women dressed in park ranger uniforms standing on either side of a person in a dolphin costume. The woman on the left has long dark hair with red highlights and is wearing a tan ranger hat, a light gray shirt, and dark green pants. She is smiling broadly. The woman on the right is also wearing a tan ranger hat, a green vest over a light gray shirt, and dark green pants. She is smiling as well. The dolphin costume is light gray and white, with large cartoonish eyes and a tan ranger hat on its head. Behind them is a backdrop with the logo of the Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, featuring a stylized wave design. The setting appears to be outdoors, possibly at a park or research facility.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/P. Zuckerman
The image shows a display table in a store, featuring a variety of books and items related to marine life. The table is wooden and set on a tiled floor. Some of the prominent books visible include: - "Sticker Encyclopedia: Ocean" with colorful ocean-themed stickers on the cover. - "Strange" with an image of a jellyfish or similar sea creature. - "Encyclopedia of Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises" featuring a whale on the cover. - "Ocean: The Definitive Visual Guide" by the American Museum of Natural History, showing a jellyfish. - "Oceanology" with an underwater scene on the cover. - "Ocean: A Visual Encyclopedia" with an ocean scene. There are also smaller items like postcards or small booklets, and a box labeled "Whale Tail Pin" with pins inside. In the background, there are racks with clothing and other merchandise.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/P. Zuckerman
The image shows a group of people gathered around a table covered with a colorful tablecloth featuring bright orange and yellow fish, green seaweed, and a blue ocean background. There are five people in the scene: a woman wearing a light green cap and a dark jacket, a man in a maroon long-sleeve shirt, and three children. The woman is leaning over the table, and the man is pointing at something on the table. The children, two boys and a girl, are standing on the opposite side of the table, looking at the items on it. The table has several clear plastic containers with various small items inside, possibly craft supplies. There is also a pair of scissors on the table. The setting appears to be indoors, with wooden beams and a high ceiling visible in the background.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/P. Zuckerman
The image shows a person dressed in a large dolphin costume standing next to a smiling woman. The dolphin costume is gray and white, with a big eye and a wide mouth, and it is wearing a tan hat. The woman is wearing a blue jacket, a blue shirt, and a green cap. They are both standing on a concrete path outside, with a building on the left and a banner on the right that reads "Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute" with a logo of a stylized wave. There are trees and greenery in the background. The atmosphere appears to be cheerful and casual.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/P. Zuckerman
The image shows a table set up by the National Park Service, likely at an event or visitor center. The table is covered with a green tablecloth that has the National Park Service logo and the words "National Park Service" printed on it. Two people are sitting behind the table. On the left is an older woman with short gray hair, wearing a blue vest with a badge on it. Next to her is a younger man with short dark hair and a beard, wearing a dark blue shirt with a name tag. On the table, there are various items, including a sign that says "Scavenger Hunt!" with colorful decorations, some papers, brochures, and a container labeled "Blubber Glove." The container has information about blubber, describing it as a specialized subcutaneous adipose tissue found only in marine mammals. There are also colored pencils and a small display with three square items hanging on it. In the background, there are two other people standing, one with a backpack and another wearing a cap, and some brochures or informational materials on display. The setting appears to be indoors with large windows providing a view of the outdoors.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/P. Zuckerman
The image shows a person standing outdoors on a stone-paved area with a low stone wall behind them. The person is smiling broadly and has their arms open wide. They are wearing a wide-brimmed hat, a dark blue jacket, dark pants, and blue sneakers with white soles. In their right hand, they are holding a small camera or binoculars with a strap. Several other cameras or binoculars with straps are resting on the stone wall. The background features a calm body of water, likely the ocean, and a clear sky with a gradient from light blue to a warm yellow near the horizon, suggesting it might be either sunrise or sunset.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/C. Spence
The image shows a sculpture of a fish mounted on a pedestal. The fish is depicted as if it is leaping out of the water, with its body curving upwards. The sculpture is placed on a cylindrical stone pedestal, which is surrounded by large rocks at its base. Behind the fish sculpture, there is a long, curved structure resembling a spine or vertebrae, extending into the background. The setting appears to be an outdoor area with a paved walkway on the right side and some dry, bushy vegetation on the left. In the background, there are trees and a structure that looks like a lighthouse or a similar building with a dome-shaped top. The sky is clear with a soft, warm light, suggesting it might be either sunrise or sunset.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/C. Spence
The image shows a woman standing next to a person in a dolphin costume. The woman is smiling and has her arm around the dolphin character. She is wearing a black vest over a long-sleeve shirt, dark pants, and blue sneakers. She is holding a water bottle. The dolphin costume is white and gray, with large eyes and a friendly smile. It is wearing a straw hat and has a name tag that reads "Wally." They are standing under a wooden structure, and in the background, there is a banner with the logo of "Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute." The setting appears to be outdoors, possibly at an event or a facility related to marine life.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/C. Spence
The image shows two park rangers standing side by side at the entrance of a building. The ranger on the left is a woman wearing a light gray short-sleeved shirt, olive green pants, and a ranger hat. She is holding a clipboard. The ranger on the right is a man wearing a dark green jacket, olive green pants, and a similar ranger hat. Both are smiling at the camera. Above them, there is a sign pointing to the "AUDITORIUM" with an arrow. Inside the building, there is a sign labeled "EXIT" and a framed document on the wall. To the left of the entrance, there is a display board with information and images, including a picture of a landscape and a statue. The floor is a mix of tiles and a mat at the entrance. The setting appears to be a visitor center or similar facility.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/C. Spence
The image shows two women standing indoors next to a table covered with various items. Both women are wearing dark jackets and caps. The woman on the left is making a playful gesture with her hand, resembling a "hang loose" sign, and has a cheerful expression. The woman on the right is leaning slightly forward with one leg extended behind her, also smiling. The table in front of them is covered with a colorful cloth and has several items on it, including a ball of blue yarn, strands of yarn laid out, and some papers or brochures. The setting appears to be a room with large windows, allowing a view of the outdoors, possibly overlooking a body of water or landscape. The floor is tiled, and there are wooden elements in the room's structure.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/C. Spence
The image shows an outdoor event with a booth set up by the American Cetacean Society, San Diego Chapter. There are two people in the foreground. On the left is a young man with curly hair, wearing a dark green t-shirt and jeans, holding a water bottle. On the right is a woman with blonde hair, wearing sunglasses, a navy blue jacket, and jeans, giving a thumbs-up gesture. Behind them is a table covered with a blue tablecloth displaying various items, including a large poster titled "Whales of the World" that features illustrations of different whale species. There are also informational pamphlets and small models or samples on the table. In the background, there are more people and tables, as well as greenery and a clear sky.
Whale Watch Weekend – NPS Photo/C. Spence
The image shows a scenic view of a coastline. In the foreground, there is a stone wall and some dry, bushy vegetation on a slope. Beyond the slope, there is a road running parallel to the coastline. Further in the distance, there are some buildings with red roofs near the shore. The ocean is visible with gentle waves rolling towards the shore, and the sky above is clear and blue. The overall scene is bright and sunny, suggesting a pleasant day.
Whale Watch Overlook – NPS Photo/D. Wieder
The image shows a well-maintained garden with various plants and vegetables growing in neatly arranged plots. The garden is bordered by a white picket fence and a wooden gate. Each plot is surrounded by stones and has a small sign indicating the type of plant growing there. In the foreground, there is a sign labeled "Salvia" in front of a bushy plant. Other signs are visible throughout the garden, marking different plants. The garden is located next to a building with white siding and large windows. The sky is clear and sunny, suggesting a bright day.
Lighthouse Kitchen Garden – NPS Photo/D. Wieder
The image shows a well-maintained vegetable garden enclosed by a wooden fence. In the foreground, there is a plant with large green leaves and two heads of purple cauliflower. To the right, there is a sign in the soil that reads "Onion," indicating the presence of onion plants nearby. The garden is filled with various leafy green plants, and there are several other signs throughout the garden, each likely indicating different types of vegetables. In the background, there is a white building with a green roof, and beyond the garden, there is a view of some trees and a clear sky.
Lighthouse Kitchen Garden – NPS Photo/P. Zuckerman
The image shows a well-maintained garden with various plants growing in it. The garden is bordered by a white picket fence. There are several signs in the garden indicating the types of plants. The visible signs read: - Radish - Beets - Broccoli - Chili Peppers In the background, there is a larger stone sign that reads "KITCHEN GARDEN." The garden is neatly organized, with different sections for each type of plant. The plants appear healthy and are thriving under the sunlight.
Lighthouse Kitchen Garden – NPS Photo/P. Zuckerman

Sunsets, Birds, and everything else, including a horse, of course

The image shows a coastal scene with several large, rocky formations covered in seaweed and other marine growth. In the foreground, there is a bird, likely a shorebird, standing on one of the rocks. The background features the ocean with waves gently crashing against the rocks. The water is a mix of blue and green hues, reflecting the sky and the seaweed beneath the surface. The overall setting appears to be a rocky shoreline or tide pool area.
Whimbrel – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a coastal scene during what appears to be either sunrise or sunset, as the lighting is warm and golden. In the foreground, there are large, rugged rocks with patches of green algae or moss. The rocky shoreline extends into the distance, with the ocean on the right side of the image. The water is relatively calm, with gentle waves lapping against the rocks. On the left side, there is a cliff with a reddish-brown hue, and a few structures can be seen on top of it, possibly buildings or fences. The sky is clear with a soft gradient from blue to a light orange near the horizon. A few birds are flying in the sky above the cliffs.
Low Tide at Sunset – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image is a black and white photograph of a lighthouse and an adjacent building. The lighthouse is on the right side of the image and has a cylindrical tower with a lantern room at the top, surrounded by a railing. The building is rectangular with a pitched roof and several windows. Both structures are painted white and are enclosed by a white picket fence. In the foreground, there is some vegetation, and the sky is clear with a few wispy clouds. The overall scene has a serene and historical feel.
Lighthouse – NPS Photo/D. Wieder
The image shows a scenic coastal path with two people standing on a dirt trail. The person on the left is a woman with red hair tied back, wearing a dark green sweater, blue jeans, and white sneakers. She is holding a small white dog. The person on the right is a man with short gray hair, wearing a black jacket, dark pants, and black shoes. They are both looking out towards the ocean, which is visible in the background. The path is surrounded by dry grass and green shrubs, and the sky is clear and blue.
Couple with thei horse – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a serene sunset over the ocean. The sun is low in the sky, casting a warm golden glow across the scene. The sky is filled with soft, wispy clouds that are illuminated by the sunset, creating a gradient of colors from orange to light yellow. The ocean is calm, with gentle waves rolling towards the shore. The sunlight reflects off the water, creating a shimmering path that leads to the horizon. In the foreground, there are some dark rocks and pebbles along the shoreline. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and tranquil.
Sunset – NPS Photo/D. Wieder
The image shows a cluster of mussels and barnacles attached to a rock. The mussels have dark, elongated shells with shades of blue, brown, and black, and they are tightly packed together. Interspersed among the mussels are barnacles, which have lighter, rough, and textured shells with a pale, beige color. The rock surface is partially visible around the edges of the cluster, and there is some greenish algae or seaweed nearby. The lighting suggests it is a sunny day, casting shadows and highlighting the textures and colors of the shells.
Mussels – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a coastal tide pool scene. There are several shallow pools of clear water surrounded by rocky formations. The rocks are covered with patches of green seaweed and algae. Under the water, you can see a variety of smooth stones and pebbles, along with some brown seaweed and other marine vegetation. The sunlight creates reflections and highlights the textures of the rocks and the clarity of the water. The overall setting appears to be a natural, rocky shoreline with a mix of aquatic and terrestrial elements.
Mysis Shrimp – NPS Photo/P. Geisler
The image shows a shallow body of water, possibly a tide pool, filled with a large number of small, slender fish swimming around. The water is clear, allowing the sandy and rocky bottom to be visible. There are some patches of green aquatic plants or seaweed in the water. The fish are densely packed, and their dark bodies create a contrast against the lighter background of the sand and rocks. The surface of the water reflects some light, adding a slight glare to the image.
Mysis Shrimp – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a close-up of a rocky surface at a tide pool or coastal area. There are three large mussels with dark shells, displaying shades of black, brown, and blue. They are partially open and surrounded by clusters of barnacles and other small marine organisms attached to the rock. The rock surface is greenish, possibly due to algae or moss, and is covered with small shells and barnacles. The scene captures a typical marine ecosystem found in intertidal zones.
Mussels – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows a large vertebra bone lying on a rocky and seaweed-covered surface, likely at a beach or shoreline. The bone is light gray and has a circular, flat top with a hole in the middle, characteristic of a vertebra. Surrounding the bone are various types of seaweed, small pebbles, and shells, with some areas appearing wet, suggesting proximity to water. The surface is a mix of dark and light colors, with patches of reddish-brown seaweed and small white particles scattered throughout.
Dolphin Vertebrae – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows an abalone shell lying on a sandy and rocky surface. The shell has an iridescent interior with a mix of colors including blue, green, pink, and purple, giving it a shiny and colorful appearance. The outer edge of the shell is rough and more muted in color, contrasting with the vibrant interior. The surrounding surface is a mix of sand and rock, with some wet patches indicating moisture.
Abalone Shell – NPS Photo/T. Woods
The image shows an underwater scene in a shallow tide pool. There are several rocks covered in algae and marine growth. On the left side, there is a sea anemone with tentacles that are light green with pinkish tips. To the right of the anemone, there is a dark, elongated object that resembles a shark egg case, often referred to as a "mermaid's purse." The sandy bottom of the pool is visible, and there are some strands of seagrass scattered around. The water is clear, allowing a good view of the objects beneath the surface.
Swell Shark Egg – NPS Photo/M. Rose
The image shows a small body of water, possibly a tide pool or shallow stream, with several fish visible beneath the surface. The fish have a striped pattern on their bodies. Above the water, there is a rocky surface covered with purple algae or seaweed. At the bottom of the image, there are some green plants or grass growing near the water's edge. The water is clear enough to see the rocky and sandy bottom.
Zebra Perch -NPS Photo/S. Kristiansen
The image shows a rocky shoreline with waves crashing in the background. There are two black birds with long red beaks standing on the rocks near the water's edge. The ocean appears to be slightly rough, with visible waves and some foam. The sky is overcast, giving the scene a muted, calm atmosphere.
Oyster Catchers – NPS Photo/D. Hunt
The image shows a large, oval-shaped shell partially submerged in shallow water, likely in a tidal pool. The shell has a rough, textured surface with a mix of brown and tan colors. Surrounding the shell are various types of marine life, including seaweed and small patches of pinkish-purple algae or coral. The water is clear, allowing the sandy and rocky bottom to be visible. The scene is well-lit, suggesting it was taken on a sunny day.
Scallop – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a scenic view of a coastline. In the foreground, there is a stone wall and some dry, bushy vegetation on a slope. Beyond the slope, there is a road running parallel to the coastline. Further in the distance, there are some buildings with red roofs near the shore. The ocean is visible with gentle waves rolling towards the shore, and the sky above is clear and blue. The overall scene is bright and sunny, suggesting a pleasant day.
Whale Watch Overlook – NPS Photo/D. Wieder
The image shows a serene ocean scene at sunset. The sun is just above the horizon, casting a vibrant orange glow across the sky and reflecting on the water. The ocean appears calm with gentle waves rolling towards the shore. In the foreground, there are some rocks and a bit of vegetation visible at the bottom edge of the image. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and picturesque, capturing the beauty of a sunset over the sea.
Sunset – NPS Photo/D. Wieder
The image shows a coastal scene during what appears to be sunset or sunrise, as the sky is painted with soft orange and pink hues. The ocean is calm with gentle waves, and the shoreline is rocky with numerous scattered stones and boulders. There is a rocky cliff or outcrop extending into the water, with a few people standing on it, possibly enjoying the view. The sunlight casts a warm glow on the rocks and the water, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
Low Tide at Sunset – NPS Photo/D. Wieder
The image shows a scenic coastal landscape during sunset. The foreground features rugged, reddish-brown cliffs with some vegetation. Below the cliffs, there is a rocky shoreline with scattered boulders and small pools of water. The ocean stretches out to the horizon, with gentle waves rolling in. The sky is a gradient of colors, transitioning from a soft orange near the horizon to a pale blue higher up, indicating the sun is setting. The overall atmosphere is calm and serene, with warm tones from the setting sun illuminating the scene.
Low Tide at Sunset – NPS Photo/D. Wieder
The image shows an underwater scene with several lobsters in a rocky crevice. The lobsters are dark in color and have long antennae. They are surrounded by variously sized and colored smooth stones on the seabed. The top part of the image shows the underside of a rocky overhang, which is covered with small marine growths. The water appears clear, allowing for a good view of the lobsters and the surrounding environment.
Spiny Lobster – NPS Photo/D. Orr
The image shows a rocky shoreline with a seagull standing on the rocks. The seagull is bending down, possibly pecking at something on the ground. The rocks are covered with patches of seaweed or algae, and there are small pools of water around them. In the background, there are layered rock formations that appear to be part of a cliff or a coastal rock face. The scene is likely at a coastal area during low tide.
Gull having a snack – NPS Photo/D. Orr

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