Coastal birding habitat

Point Reyes - Limantour Beach

California · Southwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Point Reyes - Limantour Beach is a productive birding destination in California, with 255 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Surf Scoter, Least Sandpiper, and Canada Goose 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 Parula

Setophaga americana

6/1/2026Cypress Grove, Marshall US-CA (38.1657,-122.8991)1 observed

Wrentit

Chamaea fasciata

6/1/2026Pt. Reyes--Drakes Beach (DO NOT INCLUDE Horseshoe Pond or beach/estero beyond Horseshoe Pond)2 observed

California Scrub-Jay

Aphelocoma californica

6/1/2026Pt. Reyes--Drakes Beach (DO NOT INCLUDE Horseshoe Pond or beach/estero beyond Horseshoe Pond)1 observed

White-winged Scoter

Melanitta deglandi

6/1/2026Pt. Reyes--Drakes Beach (DO NOT INCLUDE Horseshoe Pond or beach/estero beyond Horseshoe Pond)1 observed

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

6/1/2026Pt. Reyes Bird Observatory--Palomarin1 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

5/31/2026Cypress Grove, Marshall US-CA (38.1657,-122.8991)9 observed

Bay-breasted Warbler

Setophaga castanea

5/31/2026Pt. Reyes--Drakes Beach (DO NOT INCLUDE Horseshoe Pond or beach/estero beyond Horseshoe Pond)1 observed

Red-necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

5/31/2026Pt. Reyes--Abbotts Lagoon4 observed

Black-and-white Warbler

Mniotilta varia

5/31/2026Pt. Reyes--Lighthouse1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Song Sparrow

15/31/2026

Mallard

25/21/2026

California Quail

25/21/2026

Heermann's Gull

15/21/2026

Western Gull

45/21/2026

Common Loon

25/21/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/21/2026

Common Raven

55/21/2026

Barn Swallow

5/21/2026

Cliff Swallow

155/21/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

25/21/2026

Surf Scoter

755/20/2026

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 Point Reyes - Limantour Beach for birding?
The best months to visit Point Reyes - Limantour Beach for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Point Reyes - Limantour Beach?
Notable species at Point Reyes - Limantour Beach include Surf Scoter, Least Sandpiper, Canada Goose, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Point Reyes - Limantour Beach?
Birding at Point Reyes - Limantour Beach is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Point Reyes - Limantour Beach?
Point Reyes - Limantour Beach offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.