Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary

California · Southwest

Habitat
CoastalRiver/RiparianEstuary
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
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

Vermilion Flycatcher

Pyrocephalus rubinus

2/25/2026Jack O'Connell Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Blue-winged Teal

23/4/2026

Cinnamon Teal

303/4/2026

Northern Shoveler

3003/4/2026

Mallard

183/4/2026

Northern Pintail

33/4/2026

Green-winged Teal

113/4/2026

Ruddy Duck

163/4/2026

Sora

13/4/2026

American Coot

173/4/2026

American Avocet

43/4/2026

Black-bellied Plover

73/4/2026

Killdeer

153/4/2026

Hudsonian Whimbrel

123/4/2026

Long-billed Dowitcher

213/4/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

83/4/2026

Sanderling

303/4/2026

Least Sandpiper

63/4/2026

Short-billed Gull

13/4/2026

Ring-billed Gull

43/4/2026

Western Gull

503/4/2026

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.