Wetland birding habitat

Laguna Creek beach and marsh

California · Southwest

Habitat
WetlandCoastalRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Laguna Creek beach and marsh is a productive birding destination in California, with 235 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, and Northern Shoveler 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

Northern Shoveler

Spatula clypeata

5/30/2026Younger Lagoon (restricted; access only to the overhang)1 observed

Leach's Storm-Petrel

Hydrobates leucorhous

5/30/2026Offshore (SCZ Co., 2+ mi offshore)3 observed

Wandering Tattler

Tringa incana

5/29/2026West Cliff Dr. at Woodrow Ave.1 observed

Bank Swallow

Riparia riparia

5/29/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails1 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

5/29/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails1 observed

Black Swift

Cypseloides niger

5/29/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails2 observed

Spotted Sandpiper

Actitis macularius

5/29/2026Gazos Creek Beach -- west of Hwy 1 only1 observed

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

5/29/2026stakeout Indigo Bunting, Swanton Road (2026)1 observed

Purple Martin (subis/arboricola)

Progne subis

5/29/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails4 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

35/29/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

35/29/2026

Great Horned Owl

15/29/2026

Bushtit

45/29/2026

Wrentit

15/29/2026

California Towhee

45/29/2026

Spotted Towhee

25/29/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

15/29/2026

Wilson's Warbler

25/29/2026

Black-headed Grosbeak

25/29/2026

Mallard

25/29/2026

American Coot

35/29/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

35/29/2026

Great Egret

15/29/2026

Black Phoebe

15/29/2026

Barn Swallow

55/29/2026

Cliff Swallow

25/29/2026

Pygmy Nuthatch

15/29/2026

Western Bluebird

25/29/2026

House Finch

45/29/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Laguna Creek beach and marsh for birding?
The best months to visit Laguna Creek beach and marsh for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Laguna Creek beach and marsh?
Notable species at Laguna Creek beach and marsh include Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Eurasian Wigeon, American Wigeon. The area supports wetland, coastal, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Laguna Creek beach and marsh?
Birding at Laguna Creek beach and marsh is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Laguna Creek beach and marsh?
Laguna Creek beach and marsh offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.