The 30 Best Coastal birding in California

Located at 1 Drake Beach Road in Inverness, California, the PRNSA Bookstore at Drakes Beach is more than just a typical bookstore. This institution offers a unique combination of books, field guides, snacks, drinks, and hot coffee to provision visitors for their exploration of Point Reyes National Seashore. Whether you're interested in bird watching, hiking, whale watching, or wildflower study, the bookstore has everything you need to enhance your experience. In addition to a wide range of nature-inspired books and gifts, the Drakes Beach Park Store also stocks apparel and field guides. Visitors can receive a 15% discount on their purchases by becoming a member of the Point Reyes National Seashore Association, which supports conservation, education, and research programs within the park. The discount is also applicable at other NPS park stores.

Mozambique is a vibrant institution located in Laguna Beach, California, offering a unique blend of bar, food, night club, and restaurant experiences. Known for its top-ranked wood-fired steaks, fish, and seafood, Mozambique also serves sumptuous brunch on weekends and hosts happy hour every day of the week. Inspired by the flavors and spices of South Africa's seaside restaurants, Mozambique features signature dishes that utilize the little-known South African pepper, Peri-Peri. Guests can choose to dine in the plush interior, ocean panoramic rooftop, serene garden patio, or renowned piano lounge in the Durban Room on weekends. Mozambique is the perfect venue for hosting unforgettable events in the heart of Laguna Beach, offering a captivating setting for intimate celebrations or grand gatherings. Whether you're looking for a unique dining experience or a lively night out, Mozambique is the ideal destination in Orange County for steak lovers and those seeking a hotspot in South Orange County. Visit Mozambique and create truly extraordinary memories with your friends and family.

Little Freebirds is a charming boutique store located at 227 Ocean Avenue in the picturesque town of Laguna Beach, California. Specializing in a unique blend of books and clothing, this one-of-a-kind institution offers a curated selection of literary treasures and trendy apparel for all ages. Whether you're looking for a new book to dive into or a stylish outfit to update your wardrobe, Little Freebirds has something for everyone. Come visit us and discover the perfect mix of literature and fashion in the heart of Laguna Beach.

China Camp Point Picnic Area is a beautiful park located in San Rafael, California, along the shore of the San Pablo Bay. Visitors can enjoy stunning waterfront views, meadows, oak habitats, and a variety of wildlife such as deer, squirrels, coyotes, and numerous birds. The park also features an extensive intertidal salt marsh, where endangered species like the California clapper rail and salt marsh harvest mouse can be found. The park has a rich history, with a Chinese shrimp-fishing village thriving on the site in the 1880s. The museum at China Camp Village tells the story of these hardy shrimp fishermen. Visitors can also explore the beach, swim, picnic, and enjoy activities like wildlife-watching, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, boating, and windsurfing.

Pacifica Vista Point on Sharp Park Road is a beautiful park located in Pacifica, California. This serene and scenic park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With walking paths, picnic areas, and plenty of open space, Pacifica Vista Point is the perfect place to unwind and take in the sights and sounds of the coast. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to read a book or a picturesque location for a family outing, Pacifica Vista Point on Sharp Park Road has something for everyone.

Mussel Rock Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Daly City, California. Situated on Westline Drive, this park is a popular tourist attraction known for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnicking areas, and birdwatching opportunities while taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an adventurous outdoor experience, Mussel Rock Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Diablo Foothills Regional Park is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1700 Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek, California. The park is open from 5am-10pm, with parking lot hours varying throughout the year. The park is a gateway to the beautiful parklands of Mount Diablo State Park and Walnut Creek Open Space, offering sweeping panoramas of the San Francisco Bay Region and rural grasslands. The park features diverse habitats supporting a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, bobcats, coyotes, and a range of bird species. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, and nature study in the park's 1,060 acres. The Castle Rock Recreation Area within the park offers reservable group picnic areas and a swimming pool complex that is fully accessible to individuals with disabilities.

Laguna Grande Regional Park on the Monterey side is a beautiful park and popular tourist attraction located at 401 Virgin Avenue in Monterey, California, United States. The park offers stunning views of the Laguna Grande wetlands, providing visitors with the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. With walking trails, picnic areas, and interpretive signs, Laguna Grande Regional Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the beauty of the California coastline.

The Coronado Butterfly Preserve, managed by The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, is a beautiful 9.3-acre park located on Coronado Drive in Goleta, California. This preserve is a haven for native coastal sage scrub habitat, eucalyptus groves, and a variety of birds and wildlife. Visitors can explore woodlands, meadows, and Devereux Creek, as well as enjoy trails, an outdoor gathering area, and a classroom for educational purposes. The Preserve serves as a gateway to other protected coastal areas nearby, including the Goleta Monarch Grove and Ellwood Shores coastal bluffs. It is also adjacent to the largest Monarch butterfly over-wintering groves in California, attracting up to 1,000 visitors per weekend during butterfly season.

The Bolsa Chica Conservancy is a beautiful park located at 3842 Warner Avenue in Huntington Beach, California. This institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, a vital coastal wetland habitat. Visitors can explore the park's trails, learn about the local wildlife and ecosystems at the Interpretive Center, and participate in educational programs and volunteer opportunities. The Bolsa Chica Conservancy is a wonderful place to connect with nature and support conservation efforts in Southern California.

Sunset Ridge Park is a picturesque park located at 4850 West Coast Highway in Newport Beach, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the horizon. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching in this tranquil natural setting. With its lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere, Sunset Ridge Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

West Jetty View Park is a picturesque park located at 2300 Channel Road in Newport Beach, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the nearby jetty and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can relax on the grassy knolls, take a leisurely stroll along the walking paths, or simply sit and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The park is a perfect spot for picnics, bird watching, or just taking in the beautiful scenery. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful retreat or a tourist exploring the area, West Jetty View Park is a must-visit destination in Newport Beach.

Bolsa Chica Basin State Marine Conservation Area is a beautiful park located in Huntington Beach, California, United States. This conservation area is dedicated to protecting the marine environment and promoting education and awareness about the importance of preserving our oceans. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the coastline, observe a variety of marine life, and participate in educational programs and activities. Whether you're looking to relax and enjoy nature or learn more about marine conservation, Bolsa Chica Basin State Marine Conservation Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and environmental enthusiasts.

Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 2301 University Drive in Newport Beach, California, United States. This beautiful preserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plant species, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and stunning views of the bay. With its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Caroline Park is a unique park and botanical nature garden located at 320 North Poppy Road in Redlands, California. This park is a favorite among naturalists, dog walkers, picnickers, homeschoolers, walkers, and runners. The overlook terrace off Sunset Drive offers parking and a stunning 180-degree view of the surrounding mountains. While there are no restrooms or playground equipment, Caroline Park provides a one-of-a-kind park experience. Originally donated to the City of Redlands in 1929 by Olivia Phelps Stokes in memory of her sister Caroline, the park remains in its natural state as much as possible. In 1987, Dr. Harold Hill envisioned a native plant botanical park within Caroline Park, which was developed with the help of local residents, Rotary Clubs, and the City Parks Department. The park features a variety of habitats, including woodlands and Coastal Sage Scrub, a dwindling habitat in Southern California.

The Buena Vista Audubon Society is a renowned tourist attraction located at 2202 South Coast Highway in Oceanside, California, United States. This institution is dedicated to the conservation and enjoyment of birds and their habitats, offering visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse bird species that call the area home. With beautiful natural surroundings and educational programs, the Buena Vista Audubon Society is a must-visit destination for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a park located at 1080 Gunpowder Point Drive in Chula Vista, California. This refuge consists of two distinct areas where visitors can enjoy the beauty of San Diego Bay's wildlife, connected by the Bayshore Bikeway. Accessing the refuge is easy, whether you choose to ride your bike, take the bus, or drive. Limited access is available at the Sweetwater Marsh Unit, where visitors can catch a free shuttle from the Living Coast Discovery Center to access refuge trails. The Refuge protects a diverse range of endangered, threatened, migratory, and native species and their habitats within a highly urbanized coastal environment. Monthly tours are available to the public, as well as winter tours led by the San Diego Audubon Society. Habitat management techniques are used to maintain, recover, or enhance plant and wildlife values within the Refuge.

Manila Dunes is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located in California, United States. This stunning natural area offers visitors the opportunity to explore pristine sand dunes, unique coastal vegetation, and stunning ocean views. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll along the sandy trails, go bird-watching, or simply relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, Manila Dunes has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Manila Dunes for yourself.

Luffenholtz Beach is a stunning tourist attraction located at 1639 Trinidad Scenic Drive in Trinidad, California. This institution is dedicated to providing public access to the beautiful Trinidad coast while also protecting its natural beauty. From Little River to Big Lagoon, Luffenholtz Beach is committed to preserving the character of the Humboldt County Coast. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque views and serene atmosphere while also appreciating the conservation efforts in place to protect this coastal gem.

Humboldt Lagoons State Park, located at 15336 U.S. 101 in Trinidad, California, is a stunning park and tourist attraction that offers a unique blend of ocean and forest landscapes. The park is situated on the land of the Ner'-er-herh/Coastal Yurok People, known as Chah-pekw Hee-koh, and is part of the largest lagoon system in the United States. Visitors to the park can explore Big Lagoon, Stone Lagoon, Freshwater Lagoon, and the marshland of Dry Lagoon, surrounded by dunes, forests, prairies, and coastal scrub. Wildlife thrives in these diverse habitats, with opportunities to see whales, elk, trout, salmon, pelicans, and woodpeckers.

The Elephant Seal Overlook, located at Chimney Rock Road in Inverness, California, is a popular tourist attraction and landmark where visitors can observe the fascinating behavior of northern elephant seals. These seals returned to the Point Reyes Headlands in the early 1970s after being absent for over 150 years. The population has grown significantly since then, with the seals expanding to beaches beyond their initial secluded locations. The best time to view the elephant seals is from December through March, during the birthing and mating season, as well as in the spring when adult females and juveniles come ashore to molt. Visitors can witness male dominance contests, birthing of pups, and interactions between mothers and their young. The Elephant Seal Overlook offers a great vantage point to observe these incredible animals, as well as hear their distinct vocalizations.

The Coastside History Museum, located at 505 Johnston Street in Half Moon Bay, California, is a popular tourist attraction showcasing the history of the San Mateo Coastside. The museum features exhibits on the Ohlone period, farming, surfing, railroads, and the diverse cultures of the area. Visitors can also explore the historic 1919 Jail on the property, which remains open for tours and cell-fies. The museum is ADA accessible and open on weekends from 11am-3pm, as well as during Make it Main Thursday evenings and select weekdays when docents are available. The museum's construction was completed in June 2023, with exhibits highlighting local artifacts and the history of the Coastside. Additionally, the museum plans to restore the jail cells to their original state for visitors to experience. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this fascinating institution and learn about the rich heritage of the Half Moon Bay area.

Tomales Point, located in Inverness, California, is a park and tourist attraction that offers a diverse range of natural landscapes to explore. From rocky headlands and sandy beaches to grasslands and forested ridges, visitors can discover over 1500 species of plants and animals. The area has been home to various cultures over thousands of years, preserving a rich tapestry of stories and interactions. Visitors can witness elephant seals on park beaches from December to March, as well as gray whales migrating past Point Reyes from December to May. The park offers endless hiking opportunities, with trails categorized by time, habitat, and location. Those interested in becoming Snowy Plover Docents can participate in educational programs to learn about the natural history and protection of these birds.

The Whalers Cabin Museum, located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is a historic museum and tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich maritime history. This site was once home to a bustling whaling station from 1862 to 1879, as well as an abalone cannery and granite quarry. SCUBA divers can explore the underwater reserve in Whalers and Bluefish Coves, while outdoor exhibits showcase subtidal life and climatic conditions. The museum itself is housed in a historic cabin built by Chinese fishermen in the 1850s, offering a cultural history experience for visitors. The adjacent Whaling Station Museum, opened in 1994, provides further insight into the area's whaling past. Visitors can also take a short walk up the road to explore the Cabin Trail and North Shore Trail, offering scenic views of the coastal scrub community.

The Greathouse Visitor Center is a park and tourist attraction located on Nortonville Road in Pittsburg, California, United States. The center offers a variety of programs and tours related to the Black Diamond Mining History. The park's gate hours vary throughout the year, with parking fees applicable for vehicles, trailered vehicles, buses, and dogs. The center is temporarily closed for maintenance but staff are available on weekends for park information and activities. Visitors can explore the history of coal and sand mining in the area through exhibits, photographs, and artifacts at the Greathouse Visitor Center. Tours of the Hazel Atlas Mine and the new Coal Mine Experience exhibit are also available, with advanced reservations recommended. The park features 65 miles of trails through various types of vegetation, offering opportunities for hiking and nature study.

Neary Lagoon Park is a charming urban oasis nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. This serene park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its tranquil lagoon, lush greenery, and scenic walking paths. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, and relaxing by the water's edge. The park is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance. Located at 110 California Street, Neary Lagoon Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Channel Islands National Park is a unique and stunning destination located off the coast of California. This park encompasses five extraordinary islands and their surrounding ocean environment, showcasing a diverse range of natural and cultural resources. The isolation of the islands has led to the development of unique plants, animals, and archaeological sites that cannot be found anywhere else on Earth. Visitors to Channel Islands National Park can experience the beauty of coastal southern California in its natural state, away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. The park offers a range of activities, from hiking on scenic trails to camping under the stars. Transportation to the islands is available year-round, allowing visitors to explore this pristine wilderness.

Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 5775 Carpinteria Avenue in Carpinteria, California, United States. This serene and picturesque park offers visitors the opportunity to explore a unique and diverse ecosystem, including salt marshes, wetlands, and sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape. The park also offers educational programs and guided tours for those looking to learn more about the local flora and fauna. Come visit Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park for a peaceful retreat into nature.

Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located in Redwood City, California, United States. This expansive preserve offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and coastline. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this serene natural setting. With its diverse wildlife and plant species, Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The San Diego National Wildlife Refuge, located at 14715 California 94 in Jamul, California, is a park and tourist attraction offering one of the last expanses of open space in coastal southern California. This refuge is home to a diverse range of habitats and species, including over 14 threatened or endangered species. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, birding, horseback riding, and photography opportunities, as well as guided tours from refuge rangers. The institution focuses on resource management, habitat restoration, and wildlife protection, working to conserve and enhance the natural environment for the benefit of all. Please note that the institution does not guarantee accessibility compliance for external websites linked on their page.