Coastal birding habitat

Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary

California · Southwest

Habitat
CoastalRiver/RiparianEstuary
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary is a productive birding destination in California, with 277 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and river/riparian habitat attracts Blue-winged Teal, 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Brant

27/19/2026

Gadwall

7/19/2026

Mallard

7/19/2026

Surf Scoter

157/19/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

27/19/2026

Ruddy Duck

67/19/2026

California Quail

7/19/2026

Mourning Dove

27/19/2026

American Coot

67/19/2026

Black-bellied Plover

137/19/2026

Killdeer

307/19/2026

Semipalmated Plover

487/19/2026

Snowy Plover

17/19/2026

Short-billed Dowitcher

27/19/2026

Red-necked Phalarope

107/19/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

77/19/2026

Least Sandpiper

267/19/2026

Western Sandpiper

707/19/2026

Ring-billed Gull

27/19/2026

Western Gull

17/19/2026

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 Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary for birding?
The best months to visit Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary?
Notable species at Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary include Blue-winged Teal, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Mallard, Northern Pintail. The area supports coastal, river/riparian, estuary habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary?
Birding at Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary?
Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails.