Diverse wildlife viewing in San Jose, California

Located in Moss Landing, California, Elkhorn Slough Safari offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Guests can embark on a relaxing cruise through the stunning wetlands, where they can observe playful Sea Otters, Seals, and a variety of bird species up close. With a team of experienced Captains and Naturalists, visitors can learn about the diverse ecosystem and wildlife that call Elkhorn Slough home. Whether you are a local or a tourist, Elkhorn Slough Safari has been a trusted guide for over 30 years. Don't miss the opportunity to escape into California's most spectacular wetland with Elkhorn Slough Safari. Check-in at their Gift Shop at 7981 Moss Landing Rd. Ste. E before departing from "A" Dock in the Moss Landing South Harbor.

Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve, located on Sierra Road in San Jose, California, offers stunning views of the Valley and a chance to explore diverse landscapes such as oak woodlands, rolling grasslands, and chaparral communities. This preserve is home to a variety of protected wildlife species including the California red-legged frog, California tiger salamander, and Western burrowing owl, as well as other species like golden eagles, mountain lions, and bobcats. The Aquila Loop Trail is a great option for beginners and families with young children, providing expansive views of grasslands and rock outcroppings. The preserve features multi-use trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians, with benches along the way to rest and take in the scenery.

Carmel River State Beach, located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is a picturesque mile-long beach on Carmel Bay. The beach features a bird sanctuary in a lagoon where visitors can observe a wide variety of waterfowl and song birds. The beach also offers panoramic views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Monastery Beach, also known as San Jose Creek Beach, is popular with scuba divers. However, swimming, wading, or walking near the sanctuary can be dangerous. Please remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times while visiting the beach. As of September 16, 2014, beach fires are banned at Carmel River State Beach and other state beaches in the Monterey District to minimize fire dangers. State Park officials will issue warnings to first-time offenders and citations to repeat offenders. For cooking purposes, a raised and self-contained gas camp stove may be used.

Henry W. Coe State Park is a sprawling wilderness paradise located in Morgan Hill, California, United States. Spanning over 87,000 acres, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, visitors can explore diverse landscapes including rolling hills, oak woodlands, and meandering creeks. Named after Henry W. Coe, a prominent rancher and conservationist, this state park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Visitors can marvel at the park's stunning vistas, abundant wildlife, and tranquil camping sites. Whether you're seeking a day of adventure or a peaceful retreat into nature, Henry W. Coe State Park is a must-visit tourist attraction for anyone exploring the California wilderness.

Little Yosemite Area is a picturesque park located at 1895 Geary Road in Sunol, California, United States. The park offers a variety of activities such as camping, picnicking, hiking, and backpacking in its 6,859-acre wilderness. Visitors can explore sandstone outcrops with fossils, massive basalt outcrops, and the inviting creekside community along Alameda Creek. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife including ground squirrels, yellow-billed magpies, red-tailed hawks, raccoons, skunks, and black-tailed deer. The Sunol Visitor Center is open on Fridays from 10am to 2pm and on Saturdays, Sundays, and most holidays from 8:30am to 4pm. The center offers information on trail suggestions, recent animal sightings, and nature hikes led by the naturalist staff. Visitors can also meet animal ambassadors and learn about the park's plant specimens at the Sunol Herbarium.

Alviso Marina County Park is a picturesque park located at 1195 Hope Street in San Jose, California, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the marina and surrounding wetlands. Visitors can enjoy walking and biking trails, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking in this tranquil and scenic setting. With its serene atmosphere and diverse wildlife, Alviso Marina County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Gran Paradiso Park is a breathtaking oasis nestled in the heart of San Jose, California. This stunning park is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from near and far to its lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and scenic walking trails. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind in nature or explore the park's diverse wildlife, Gran Paradiso Park offers something for everyone. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, have a picnic by the pond, or simply soak in the peaceful ambiance of this hidden gem in the bustling city. With its serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, Gran Paradiso Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Waterbird Regional Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 2701 Waterfront Road in Martinez, California, United States. The preserve is open to visitors from November to February from 8am to 4pm, with extended hours in the spring and summer months. The park features a 198-acre wetland area known as Al McNabney Marsh, which is home to a diverse range of bird species. Visitors can enjoy hiking along several miles of trails in the uplands area, with opportunities to spot waterfowl, shorebirds, and raptors. The park is a popular destination for birdwatchers, with the chance to see species such as American avocets, great blue herons, and white pelicans. The marsh area is part of the Pacific Flyway for migratory birds, making it a prime location for birdwatching during fall and spring migrations.

Sierra Vista, located at 5345 Sierra Road in San Jose, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction in the area. This preserve in the Eastern foothills of Santa Clara County offers stunning views of the Valley and diverse landscapes to explore, including oak woodlands, rolling grassland, and chaparral communities. Home to several protected wildlife species such as the California red-legged frog, California tiger salamander, and Western burrowing owl, as well as golden eagles, mountain lions, bobcats, and gray foxes, Sierra Vista is a nature lover's paradise. The Aquila Loop Trail is perfect for beginners and families, offering mellow hikes with expansive views and the chance to spot red-tailed hawks, bobcats, and acorn woodpeckers.