Coastal birding habitat

Gazos Creek Beach - west of Hwy 1 only

California · Southwest

Habitat
CoastalRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Gazos Creek Beach - west of Hwy 1 only is a productive birding destination in California, with 217 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and river/riparian habitat attracts Mallard, Surf Scoter, and Anna's Hummingbird among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

4/18/2026La Honda Creek OSP (lower)1 observed

Chipping Sparrow

Spizella passerina

4/18/2026La Honda Creek OSP (lower)3 observed

Cassin's Vireo

Vireo cassinii

4/18/2026Long Ridge OSP--Peter's Creek Trailhead (SM Co.)2 observed

Rhinoceros Auklet

Cerorhinca monocerata

4/18/2026Pigeon Pt.4 observed

Swainson's Thrush

Catharus ustulatus

4/16/2026Henry Cowell Redwoods SP--Zayante Trail1 observed

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus

4/16/2026La Honda Creek OSP (lower)1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

4/15/2026Swanton Road near Last Chance Road1 observed

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta canadensis

4/14/2026Long Ridge OSP--Peter's Creek Trailhead (SM Co.)1 observed

Black Swift

Cypseloides niger

4/14/2026Swanton Road at Molino Creek1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Surf Scoter

334/18/2026

Common Goldeneye

14/18/2026

Killdeer

24/18/2026

Hudsonian Whimbrel

174/18/2026

Least Sandpiper

54/18/2026

Western Gull

384/18/2026

American Herring Gull

14/18/2026

California Gull

304/18/2026

Glaucous-winged Gull

34/18/2026

Elegant Tern

74/18/2026

Brown Pelican

244/18/2026

Turkey Vulture

44/18/2026

Common Raven

54/18/2026

Barn Swallow

64/18/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

34/18/2026

Song Sparrow

24/18/2026

Common Yellowthroat

14/18/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

14/17/2026

Black Oystercatcher

14/17/2026

Semipalmated Plover

94/17/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Gazos Creek Beach - west of Hwy 1 only for birding?
The best months to visit Gazos Creek Beach - west of Hwy 1 only for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Gazos Creek Beach - west of Hwy 1 only?
Notable species at Gazos Creek Beach - west of Hwy 1 only include Mallard, Surf Scoter, Anna's Hummingbird, Hudsonian Whimbrel, Long-billed Curlew. The area supports coastal, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Gazos Creek Beach - west of Hwy 1 only?
Birding at Gazos Creek Beach - west of Hwy 1 only is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Gazos Creek Beach - west of Hwy 1 only?
Gazos Creek Beach - west of Hwy 1 only offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.