San Miguel Island, CA

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Sand Dunes, Seals & Empty Hiking Trails

The island of San Miguel

Eric on one of many sand dunes

contains no residents other than a cluster of wildlife biologists and a few project archeologists.

We hiked along the shoreline of the anchorage amid huge sand dunes. Later in our stay, we walked about the topside of the island and met the biologists and rangers stationed there. There are a several hiking trails that weaved their way through copious amounts of plant life that appeared to be dead, but was merely dormant at the time.

Coming from the Pacific Northwest, we think of vibrant green and flourishing plants. These plants looked absolutely dead by Washington standards but will come alive next spring when they get the small amount of water they need to sustain themselves. It is really amazing.

The water

San Miguel anchorage

in the anchorage was very clear and we really wanted to go snorkeling. However, there are TONS of pinnipeds in the harbor (seals, sea lions, etc.) - so we thought best not to. The seals weren't a concern, but the sharks that hang out to enjoy them as a meal were.

We sent an update to our parents regarding our location and gave the lowdown on the area. In reply, we got word from two moms saying "DO NOT SWIM WITH SHARKS!" - so we figured we had better listen to them. You can't argue with two mothers, and you surely can't find fault in their logic!

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