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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: 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.
Whiskers in the Wild: Week Two - Heat, Hierarchies & Harbor Landmarks
A heat wave brings new rhythms to Channel Islands Harbor - sea lions jockey for space, hierarchies shift, and the harbor’s daily drama plays out under changing light. Highlights include rare wildlife visitors, teachable moments with the public, and reminders of why careful observation and action matter.
Whiskers in the Wild: Week One with the Harbor Colony
Settling into harbor life means evening walks, chowder by the water, and watching the sea lion colony’s antics as summer winds down. Playful chases, shifting routines, and the rhythms of the harbor become part of daily life - reminding us to watch, respect, and enjoy from a distance.
Whiskers in the Wild: Sea Lion Stories from Channel Islands Harbor
Channel Islands Harbor is alive with the sounds and antics of California sea lions. From morning coffee runs to unexpected encounters, these stories highlight the joys and challenges of living alongside a wild colony - and the importance of caring for our coastal neighbors.
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.
Sea Lions at the Marina
Wildlife Wednesday goes local with the sea lions of Marina del Rey - regulars on the docks, true masters of relaxation, and endlessly entertaining. This photo essay highlights their personalities, shares safe viewing tips, and celebrates simple wildlife moments close to home.
From Cannery Row to Bird Rock: A Monterey Day Trip Worth Remembering
Explore a Monterey day trip from Cannery Row to Bird Rock - tide pools, sea otters, scenic drives, and wildlife encounters along 17 Mile Drive. This photo essay highlights hidden gems, honest moments, and the beauty of California’s central coast.
Sea Lion Saturdays: Photo Walks, Coastal Drives, and Marine Life in Marina del Rey & Beyond
A spring Saturday in Marina del Rey starts with a slow breakfast, then leads to playful sea lions at Burton Chace Park and foggy coastal drives. This photo essay captures candid wildlife moments, shifting beach weather, and the laid-back rhythm of life by the ocean.