Taking Care of Tidepools
Twice a day, retreating tides leave seashore life clinging to the rocks. Intertidal plants and animals are well adapted to this changing world of surf and sand, but have no defense against humans. Therefore, whenever you are tidepooling, please observe the following guidelines:
1. The best way to observe tidepools is to sit quietly until animals emerge from their hiding places and resume their activities. Watch out for rising tide!
2. You may touch marine life, but DO NOT pick it up or place it in a container. If you do they will die. Examine it in the place that you find it.
3. Watch your step! Walk carefully around the tidepools for your own safety and to spare the marine life underfoot.
4. Any rocks that get moved should be replaced with the seaweed side up. Life on the bottom of the rocks will die when exposed to sun and air. Please avoid moving the rocks whenever possible.
5. Shells and rocks are a natural part of the areas. Many serve as future homes for critters such as hermit crabs. PLEASE DO NOT COLLECT SHELLS, VEGETATION, ROCKS, OR MARINE LIFE IN THE RESERVE.
Thank you for your cooperation. If you have any further questions, or if you see anyone ignoring or violating these guidelines, please contact a Park Ranger. You may also report any poaching or polluting incidents by calling CalTIP I -800-952-5400 or the San Mateo County Parks and Recreation Office at (650) 363-4020 (Monday - Friday).