Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve in Huntington Beach is one of the most important coastal wetlands remaining in Southern California, with over 321 bird species recorded. This 1,449-acre reserve of restored tidal salt marsh, mudflats, and open water channels provides crucial habitat for resident and migratory waterbirds along the Pacific Flyway.

The 1.5-mile loop trail and elevated boardwalk offer superb eye-level views of nesting Elegant Terns and endangered California Least Terns on the nesting islands, while Clapper Rails and Belding's Savannah Sparrows skulk in the pickleweed marsh. During fall migration, the mudflats teem with thousands of shorebirds including Western Sandpipers, Marbled Godwits, and Long-billed Curlews.