SIMPSON REEF & SHELL ISLAND OVERLOOK, Cape Arago Highway [Map]

This habitat is one of the important marine mammal and seabird colonies on the northwest coast. The overlook presents an opportunity for viewing harbor and elephant seals, and California and Steller sea lions. Simpson Reef at the top of the photograph provides a small barrier to the open sea. Pelagic cormorants and other seabirds make Shell Island (in the foreground of the photograph) their nesting grounds.

SEA docents (wildlife interpreters) are available during the summer with spotting scopes and wildlife brochures to aid in your enjoyment of this beautiful area. The Simpson Reef area is part of the Cape Arago State Park of Oregon. More information is available from the Friends of Shore Acres.

A northern elephant seal clears some space amidst the California and Steller sea lions and smaller harbor seals.