Wetland birding habitat

Zuma Beach and Lagoon

California · Southwest

Habitat
WetlandCoastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Zuma Beach and Lagoon is a productive birding destination in California, with 254 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and coastal habitat attracts Marbled Godwit, Western Gull, and Brown Pelican 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

Brown Pelican

Pelecanus occidentalis

6/2/2026Lake Lindero2 observed

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

5/30/2026Topanga State Park, Los Angeles US-CA 34.09331, -118.58747Eat1 observed

Grace's Warbler

Setophaga graciae

5/25/2026Peter Strauss Ranch1 observed

Cackling Goose (Aleutian)

Branta hutchinsii

5/22/2026Rancho Simi Community Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Red-shouldered Hawk

16/2/2026

Band-tailed Pigeon

25/31/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

15/31/2026

White-throated Swift

315/31/2026

Black-chinned Hummingbird

15/31/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

15/31/2026

Allen's Hummingbird

65/31/2026

Cooper's Hawk

25/31/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

45/31/2026

Nuttall's Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Nanday Parakeet

45/31/2026

Western Flycatcher

35/31/2026

Black Phoebe

25/31/2026

Cassin's Kingbird

15/31/2026

Hutton's Vireo

25/31/2026

California Scrub-Jay

95/31/2026

American Crow

15/31/2026

Bushtit

205/31/2026

Wrentit

35/31/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

45/31/2026

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 Zuma Beach and Lagoon for birding?
The best months to visit Zuma Beach and Lagoon for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Zuma Beach and Lagoon?
Notable species at Zuma Beach and Lagoon include Marbled Godwit, Western Gull, Brown Pelican, Surf Scoter, Rock Pigeon. The area supports wetland, coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Zuma Beach and Lagoon?
Birding at Zuma Beach and Lagoon is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Zuma Beach and Lagoon?
Zuma Beach and Lagoon offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.