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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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Harbor Seal Highlights
A spring visit to Elkhorn Slough reveals a shoreline full of harbor seals - sleepy adults, playful pups, and peaceful scenes during pupping season. This photo essay shares the quiet magic of watching a natural seal nursery unfold along the Central California coast.
A Blue Whale Off Long Beach
A whale watching trip off Long Beach turns unforgettable with a rare blue whale sighting. This photo essay shares the quiet awe and fleeting magic of seeing the world’s largest animal in the wild - one of the rarest wildlife moments I’ve experienced.
A Crab Claw and No Intention of Sharing
This week’s Wildlife Wednesday features a hungry sea otter in Elkhorn Slough, caught mid-snack with a crab claw and zero interest in sharing. A candid look at otter feeding habits - sometimes silly, sometimes serious, always entertaining.
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.
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.
Morro Bay Adventure: Sea Otters, Elephant Seals & Monarch Butterflies Along California’s Coast
A coastal adventure from Morro Bay to Pismo Beach brings close encounters with sea otters, elephant seals, and monarch butterflies. This photo essay highlights the best spots for wildlife viewing and the magic of California’s central coast.
Leo Carrillo Beach Is My Favorite Coastal Escape: Tide Pools, Scenic Drives & Malibu Seafood
Leo Carrillo State Beach offers space to unwind, explore tide pools, and enjoy fresh seafood with ocean views. From weekend drives and sea cave adventures to the ritual of Malibu Seafood chowder, this post captures the rhythm and magic of a favorite coastal escape.
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.
Trough Creek State Park: Hiking to Rainbow Falls & Balanced Rock
A day at Trough Creek State Park offers forested trails, a swaying suspension bridge, Rainbow Falls, and the marvel of Balanced Rock. This photo essay captures the comfort of familiar landscapes, meaningful moments with family, and the simple joys of being outdoors.
Why Malibu Seafood Is Worth the Wait: Fresh Seafood, Ocean Views & the Best Clam Chowder
Malibu Seafood is a local favorite for fresh clam chowder, ocean views, and relaxed coastal vibes. This post shares why the wait is always worth it, plus tips for making the most of your visit with nearby hikes, scenic drives, and peaceful beaches.
Whale Watching in Long Beach: Spotting Blue & Fin Whales on an Unforgettable Ocean Adventure
Set out from Long Beach for a whale watching trip that brings you face-to-face with blue and fin whales. This photo essay shares the awe of seeing the ocean’s giants, the realities of seasickness, and the rare thrill of witnessing endangered wildlife up close.
Petrified Forest National Park: Ancient Trees & Stunning Landscapes
Petrified Forest National Park surprises with its vibrant fossilized logs, sprawling Painted Desert, and ancient petroglyphs. This photo essay captures a brief but memorable visit, from colorful rock formations to quiet trails and a must-see rock yard nearby.
Kelso Dunes & Depot: A Journey Through the Mojave National Preserve
Step into the quiet expanse of Mojave National Preserve, where Kelso Dunes rise from the desert floor and history lingers at Kelso Depot. This photo essay reflects on intense summer heat, rare solitude, and the value of slowing down to truly take in the landscape.
Escaping to Sequoia & Kings Canyon: Giant Trees, Rushing Rivers & Much-Needed Fresh Air
Escape city life for a spontaneous road trip through Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. This photo essay captures giant trees, glacier-carved canyons, and the restorative calm of wild rivers, with practical tips and a visual gallery from the journey.