San Simeon Pier

California · Southwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

San Simeon Pier is a productive birding destination in California, with 204 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Northern Pintail, Surf Scoter, and Pigeon Guillemot 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

Purple Finch (Western)

Haemorhous purpureus

3/5/2026Ragged Point Inn1 observed

Ruddy Turnstone

Arenaria interpres

2/24/2026Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park1 observed

Marbled Murrelet

Brachyramphus marmoratus

2/22/2026San Simeon Point4 observed

Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

2/22/2026San Simeon Creek Mouth/Beach1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Pintail

23/5/2026

Surf Scoter

253/5/2026

Pigeon Guillemot

13/5/2026

Western Gull

3/5/2026

Western Grebe

2003/5/2026

Clark's Grebe

13/5/2026

Red-throated Loon

63/5/2026

Pelagic Cormorant

13/5/2026

Brown Pelican

13/5/2026

Turkey Vulture

13/5/2026

American Crow

13/5/2026

European Starling

23/5/2026

House Finch

3/5/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

103/5/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

203/5/2026

Black Phoebe

12/24/2026

California Scrub-Jay

22/24/2026

Mallard

32/22/2026

Common Murre

12/22/2026

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 San Simeon Pier for birding?
The best months to visit San Simeon Pier for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at San Simeon Pier?
Notable species at San Simeon Pier include Northern Pintail, Surf Scoter, Pigeon Guillemot, Western Gull, Western Grebe. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at San Simeon Pier?
Birding at San Simeon Pier is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at San Simeon Pier?
San Simeon Pier offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.