School Programs
School programs are offered on Wednesdays and Fridays by appointment only. Lessons focus on the understanding and protection of our natural resources by visiting the Coastal Discovery Center and exploring the beach, the sandy and rocky intertidal, collecting basic oceanography data and plankton, and/or viewing marine wildlife from the San Simeon pier. Programs are led by docents or teachers who want to explore the local area and use the Coastal Discovery Center as part of their field trip.

Our location 4.5 miles from a major elephant seal rookery makes it possible to combine a visit to the Coastal Discovery Center with a trip to see the elephant seals. If you would like to bring a class to the Coastal Discovery Center, please call the Coastal Discovery Center (805-927-2145) to arrange a trip.

Public Programs
The History of San Simeon Bay is rich in cultural heritage, from the time the native peoples inhabited the area almost 10,000 years ago to the current ownership by the Hearst family and the CA State Park. Join us on San Simeon Pier the first weekend of each month from 11 am to 1 pm to hear about the rich history of San Simeon Bay.

The Coastal Discovery Fair, a popular family event with lots of activities for children of all ages, is held on the third Saturday of July. Attending agencies represent at least 20 of our partners in resource protection. Activities include creating and operating your own remote-controlled underwater robot, creating artwork, visiting with live animals and shaking fins with Sammy the Steelhead!