Swimming with seals and sea lions is discouraged. While the seals are curious and may swim close to investigate, male seals and sea lions are aggressive, with sharp teeth.
Male sea lions and seals are territorial and will fight to protect their territory and their females. Sea lions will fight each other in shallow water while seals will fight ashore.
Females live longer than males, and suckle their young for up to three years. Often one female will stay on the beach to watch many youngsters while their mothers are at sea hunting for food.