San Diego | Nature Preserves

San Diego’s coastline offers an enchanting mix of urban areas and protected wildlife refuges. In minutes, you can go from any urban center to a peaceful retreat. Here are some of our recommendations!

[south to north]

	Tijuana Slough Wildlife Reserve Offering 1051 acres and over 370 bird species, this rare wetland preserve is a bird-watcher’s paradise. A salt-water marsh beside the ocean, the birds have a precious habitat where they can roost and multiply. Trails extending from the south end of Seacoast Drive allow hikers and ornithologists a chance at a rare glimpse.
	Sweetwater Marsh The Chula Vista Nature Center & gardens are home to the 316 acre Sweetwater Marsh. Protecting many of the same species as the Tijuana Slough and South Bay Refuges, the Center offers interactive exhibits, guided nature & bird walks, as well as a shark & ray exhibit. Native birds along with rescued owls, shore birds, egrets & herons are available for viewing in outdoor aviaries.
	Otay-Sweetwater San Diego NWR Inland, with 44,ooo diverse acres of coastal sage scrub, chaparral, oak woodland & fresh water marsh. Home to the endangered Least Bell’s Vireo, California Gnatcatcher, Quino Checkerspot & the San Diego Horned lizard. Wildlife viewing, birding, hiking, research, conservation, photography, and guided walks are available. Some areas off limits to hikers.
	Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve More than just a home to the famed Torrey Pines Golf Course, this popular Reserve offers breathtaking ocean views, mountain & beach trails, and the rare Torrey Pines. Enjoy a lofty hike or take a leisurely stroll to the perfect picnic spot with dramatic views of La Jolla & beyond. The beach is pristine, and the sunsets turn towering cliffs to a golden hue.
	San Elijo Lagoon Bordered by Solana Beach, Cardiff by the Sea, Rancho Santa Fe, and the Pacific Ocean, San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve offers 1000 acres to explore, with 7 miles of mostly level & easy trails. Leashed dogs are welcome. Home to a diverse number of birds, flora & fauna, it is one of the last remaining coastal wetlands in San Diego County. Birding tips (and photos) from Mary Beth Stowe.
	Batiquitos Lagoon A family-friendly 610 acre reserve to the south of Carlsbad, Batiquitos offers a level and easy 2 mile trail with plenty of birds to watch. There are group walks & activities scheduled. Birds abound, from common species to endangered and protected. Leashed dogs welcome in this protected habitat by the sea.