Pacific Marine Mammal Center

Marine mammal hospital in Laguna Canyon that rescues, rehabilitates and releases stranded sea lions, elephant seals, harbor seals and fur seals. The visitor yard was listed as temporarily closed at the time of research, so check the site before going; volunteers help with animal care, education and the gift shop.

Sanctuaries are homes for rescued animals, not attractions. Most run on volunteers and donations, so check the website for visiting days and what they need before you go.

• curated
• marine-mammals
• wildlife
• volunteering