Coastal birding habitat

Refugio State Beach

California · Southwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Refugio State Beach is a productive birding destination in California, with 258 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Surf Scoter, Hudsonian Whimbrel, and Long-billed Curlew 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

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

7/20/2026Coal Oil Point1 observed

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

7/12/2026San Jose Creek--near Berkeley Road1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

California Quail

7/20/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

37/20/2026

Mourning Dove

17/20/2026

Turkey Vulture

37/20/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/20/2026

American Barn Owl

17/20/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

127/20/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/20/2026

Nuttall's Woodpecker

17/20/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

17/20/2026

Northern Flicker

27/20/2026

American Kestrel

17/20/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

17/20/2026

Western Flycatcher

37/20/2026

Black Phoebe

17/20/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

17/20/2026

California Scrub-Jay

37/20/2026

American Crow

47/20/2026

Oak Titmouse

17/20/2026

Wrentit

17/20/2026

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 Refugio State Beach for birding?
The best months to visit Refugio State Beach for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Refugio State Beach?
Notable species at Refugio State Beach include Surf Scoter, Hudsonian Whimbrel, Long-billed Curlew, Willet, Ring-billed Gull. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Refugio State Beach?
Birding at Refugio State Beach is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Refugio State Beach?
Refugio State Beach offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.