Blog
Join us for wildlife stories, field notes, and plenty of coastal surprises - from sea lions at the marina to hidden tide pools and a shop full of nature-inspired art.
I started Salt + Noelle to share the wild, everyday moments I find along California’s coast - and sometimes beyond. Raised far from the ocean, I built a life around music and tech, but always kept a camera close and the coast in mind.
Now based at Channel Islands Harbor, I document the places where people and wildlife meet. This blog is where I share honest field notes, photo essays, and the stories behind the images. If you’ve ever loved the ocean from afar or wondered what it’s really like to witness wildlife up close, you’re in the right place.
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Whiskers in the Wild: Portraits, Personalities, and Painted Skies
Spending nearly every day with the sea lion colony means no two visits are ever the same. This week’s update dives into portraits, personalities, and the small moments that make harbor life unforgettable.
A Day Trip to Central Santa Cruz Island: Preparedness, Wildlife Encounters, and Painted Cave Wonders
From thoughtful packing and a boat ride across the channel to dolphins leaping at the bow and harbor seals basking on sunlit rocks, my day trip to central Santa Cruz Island with Island Packers was full of surprises. Painted Cave was the highlight, but the real magic was in the moments I didn’t plan for.
Whiskers in the Wild: Week Three - Shifting Shores & Labor Day Lessons
Labor Day week was a swirl of crowded beaches and shifting sea lion routines. From the surprise of empty harbors to sea lions surfing right alongside people, I found myself savoring everything - from my new favorite pecan crunch oatmilk latte to dreams of boats and coastal road trips. This week’s story is about adapting to change and finding comfort in both the chaos and the calm.
A Wildlife Hike at Carpinteria Seal Rookery
A hike along Carpinteria Bluffs brings ocean views, wildflowers, and the search for harbor seals at a sensitive rookery. Even on quiet days, there’s plenty to discover - lizards, birds, and reminders of why protecting these wild places matters.
Channel Islands Harbor: New Beginnings, Harbor Wildlife
A move to Channel Islands Harbor brings new wildlife encounters, peaceful harbor views, and a sense of community. Enjoy stories of sea lions, ducks, and daily discoveries - all seen from a new home base just steps from the water.
Bird Rock’s Coastal Community
Bird Rock in Monterey is alive with sea lions, nesting cormorants, gulls, and sea otters - all sharing the same rocky outcrop. This photo essay captures the noisy, ever-changing energy of a true coastal community and the importance of respectful wildlife viewing.
Brandt’s Cormorants Nesting at Moss Landing
A sunrise visit to Moss Landing reveals the drama of Brandt’s cormorant nesting season - flashes of blue throat patches, nest building, and plenty of neighborly squabbles. This photo essay offers a close look at breeding behaviors and tips for ethical birdwatching.
Pup Watch: A Photo Tour on Elkhorn Slough Safari
Experience sunrise on Elkhorn Slough with a photo tour packed with sea otter pups, harbor seals, and nesting birds. This essay captures the excitement of early wildlife sightings, behind-the-scenes moments, and the joy of documenting California’s coastal life.
Zzyzx Road: The Strange History & Hidden Wildlife of This Mojave Desert Landmark
A detour down Zzyzx Road reveals a forgotten spa, rare wildlife, and stark desert beauty. This photo essay uncovers the odd history of the Mojave’s most mysterious landmark, with encounters at Lake Tuendae and glimpses of bighorn sheep and native birds.
A Peaceful Afternoon at Roaring Spring Dam Park: Ducks, Photography & Small-Town Charm
A visit to Roaring Spring Dam Park means quiet water views, friendly ducks, and time to slow down with family. This photo essay shares simple joys, a bit of local history, and the comfort of familiar routines in a small Pennsylvania town.