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Many people who come to visit the picturesque North Norfolk coastline come for more than just the scenery. Many wish to indulge in the local wildlife North Norfolk seals are often top of the list.
North Norfolk is famed for its seal population, and every year, visitors watch thousands of seals swim, play, and sunbathe. Over 3000 seals are born each year in Norfolk meaning there is always a chance to spot them when on your holiday.
Many of our luxury Norfolk cottages, bring you closer to seeing these wonderful creatures, with organised tours and experienced guides just a short journey away from many of our holiday cottages.
So, let’s discover where you should be looking to stay if you want the best opportunity to see the famous North Norfolk seals.
Where can I see the seals in North Norfolk?
You are spoilt for choice if seal watching in North Norfolk is high on your holiday agenda. With some incredibly beautiful spots for you to enjoy watching these cheeky characters, you can make a road trip of it to find them in multiple areas at different times of day. You can even visit year-round and catch a glimpse of them at play.
Blakeney Point
Blakeney Point is not only a fantastic place to visit, but it’s a perfect place to watch the grey seals in action. You might not be able to catch them from the shore, but the hour-long boat trips that prove to be very popular give you a great chance to learn a little more about the seals and get a closer look at them.
During summer months when visitors to North Norfolk increase substantially, these boat trips get booked up very fast, so it is advisable to get a booking in early.
Book the stunning Scaldbeck House in Morston to be close by, and you could be enjoying a seal boat trip in the morning before heading out for lunch in one of the nearby pubs in the afternoon.
Hunstanton
Hunstanton provides visitors with a wealth of great scenery with its stunning cliffs, rock pools, and beautiful walks. Why not combine all this with a spot of seal-watching?
Throughout the summer months, you’ll get the best chance to see the adorable seal pups. Commonly born between June and August, you’ll be able to watch the seals bobbing about in the water and being rather inquisitive about your boat should you go out on a trip to spot them. Trips on the rather comically named “Wizzy the Wash Monster” take place multiple times a day between May and September, giving you ample opportunity to spot the seals enjoy the warmer weather.
We have some beautiful, luxury holiday homes in Hunstanton and Old Hunstanton that can act as the perfect base before you head out seal-watching.
Horsey
Horsey is home to the Atlantic Grey Seal colony of the area, and throughout the year the beaches between Horsey and Winterton are filled with seals. Between October to February, the beaches are closed off, allowing the seal pups to be born and protected. That being said, there are specific viewing platforms you can use to get a glimpse of the seals. If visiting during other parts of the year, the beach is open, but you must adhere to the local 10m rule to keep the seals from being disturbed. It will also prevent you from being attacked. Seals like to protect their young and defend their territory.
What is the best time of year to see seals in North Norfolk?
North Norfolk is home to two different species of seal, and you can see both throughout the year. The Common Seal will have its young between June and August meaning you are more likely to see them ashore during these months. The Grey Seals have their pups between August and January when they take over the beach from their fellow aquatic friends.
It is best to try and visit in the earlier part of the day. You’ll have more chance of seeing them relaxing in the sun rather than them being underwater. However, with the frequently organised boat trips, you can venture out in the afternoon or early evening and catch them swimming and maybe even come over to say hello.
Tips for seal spotting in North Norfolk
If you decide to venture out and get up close with some seals, it’s worth taking note of a few tips so you get the most out of your trip:
- Book any boat trips at your earliest convenience. They get very busy!
- Don’t attempt to feed the seals. They have a particular diet and interference from humans could make them ill, or make them dependent on humans.
- Don’t approach them. It would be lovely to get a picture with one but remember they are wild animals and will protect their young, as well as the land they are on. Stay back and observe peacefully, enjoying nature from afar and not disturbing it.
- Either leave your dog in your accommodation or keep it on a lead and well away from the seals. An interaction between a dog and a seal could unfortunately end disastrously for both.
A break in North Norfolk can be topped off with a visit to see the seals. With some stunning locations stretching across the area, you’re spoilt for choice. Why not let Barefoot Retreats help make life easier? Choose from a great variety of coastal and village retreats, stays at The Railway Hotel Burnham Market or bespoke Norfolk breaks that allow you to customise your trip to your needs. Speak to our team today to find out more.