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

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

5/27/2026Tofoni Trail — Woodside SW2 observed

Black Swift

Cypseloides niger

5/27/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails5 observed

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

5/26/2026stakeout Indigo Bunting, Swanton Road (2026)1 observed

Bank Swallow

Riparia riparia

5/25/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails4 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

5/25/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails3 observed

Black Swift (borealis)

Cypseloides niger

5/25/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails4 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

25/27/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

15/27/2026

Hudsonian Whimbrel

85/27/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

15/27/2026

California Gull

5/27/2026

Elegant Tern

125/27/2026

Brown Pelican

35/27/2026

Spotted Towhee

25/27/2026

Surf Scoter

35/27/2026

Killdeer

45/27/2026

Heermann's Gull

125/27/2026

Western Gull

335/27/2026

Caspian Tern

65/27/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/27/2026

Northern Harrier

15/27/2026

California Scrub-Jay

25/27/2026

Common Raven

25/27/2026

Violet-green Swallow

15/27/2026

Barn Swallow

25/27/2026

Cliff Swallow

25/27/2026

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.