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

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

American Redstart

Setophaga ruticilla

5/23/2026Vandenberg SFB--Trestle Beach (restricted access)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

25/27/2026

Cinnamon Teal

45/27/2026

Gadwall

5/27/2026

Mallard

5/27/2026

Green-winged Teal

15/27/2026

Surf Scoter

55/27/2026

Ruddy Duck

5/27/2026

Black-necked Stilt

65/27/2026

American Avocet

155/27/2026

Black-bellied Plover

65/27/2026

Killdeer

85/27/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

15/27/2026

Bonaparte's Gull

65/27/2026

Heermann's Gull

5/27/2026

Western Gull

5/27/2026

California Gull

5/27/2026

Caspian Tern

145/27/2026

Royal Tern

15/27/2026

Red-throated Loon

15/27/2026

Common Loon

15/27/2026

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 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.