Seal Islands (California) facts for kids
![]() An aerial photo of the Seal islands, viewed from the north, in 2009.
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Geography | |
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Location | Northern California |
Coordinates | 38°03′20″N 122°02′50″W / 38.05556°N 122.04722°W |
Adjacent bodies of water | Suisun Bay |
Administration | |
State | ![]() |
County | Contra Costa |
The Seal Islands are two small islands located in Suisun Bay, California. This bay is a part of the larger San Francisco Bay Area. These islands are found where the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River meet the bay. This area is known as the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta.
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About the Seal Islands
The Seal Islands are a pair of islands. They are located in Contra Costa County, California. This county is in the northern part of California. The islands are about 10 kilometers (6 miles) east of a city called Benicia. They are also very close to the shore, about 500 meters (1,640 feet) away.
Where Are They Located?
The islands sit in Suisun Bay. This bay is a special place where fresh water from rivers mixes with salt water from the ocean. It is an important part of the San Francisco Bay system. The Seal Islands are near the former Concord Naval Weapons Station. They are also close to the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial.
Why Are They Called Seal Islands?
The name "Seal Islands" suggests that seals might live there. Many islands in coastal areas are home to different types of seals. These animals often use small, quiet islands to rest and raise their young. While specific details about seals on these particular islands are not widely known, their name hints at a connection to these marine mammals.
The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta
The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta is a huge area of waterways. It is formed by the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers. These rivers flow into Suisun Bay. The delta is very important for California's water supply. It is also a rich habitat for many plants and animals. The Seal Islands are right at the mouth of this important delta.