An Ecological Treasure Trove

 
 
 

The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is one of the largest remaining saltwater marshes along the California coast. At more than 1,400 acres, these local wetlands are a critical habitat for endangered and threatened species, as well as a nursery and year-round home for many species of aquatic creatures and fish.

 

Plan Your Visit

As stewards of the Bolsa Chica, the Amigos have led regular tours of the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve for decades, connecting visitors to the land and its inhabitants. Each of our tours are led by trained, volunteer Naturalists and cover topics ranging from ecological history to grassroots environmentalism. Use the button below each tour description to check the calendar and sign up if you are planning to attend one of the free guided tours described below. Reservations and carpooling are encouraged as parking is limited. Call (714) 840-1575 if you have questions.

 

First Saturday of the Month Wetland Tour

First Saturday of the Month Wetland Tour:  Starts 9:00 am, groups leave every 15 minutes until 10:30 am. Meet in the south parking lot at the Reserve, on Pacific Coast Hwy halfway between Warner and Seapoint, directly across the Hwy from the entrance to Bolsa Chica State Beach. Volunteer Naturalists offer presentations on the history, birds, endangered species, ecology and restoration of the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. This is a wonderful opportunity for first-time visitors, students, small groups and local citizens to learn about this valuable coastal resource. Free and open to the public.

Last Saturday of the Month Bird Walk

Last Saturday of the Month Bird Walk:  Starts 8:30 am. Meet in the south parking lot at the Reserve, on Pacific Coast Hwy halfway between Warner and Seapoint, directly across the Hwy from the entrance to Bolsa Chica State Beach.  The Bolsa Chica provides feeding and nesting habitat for thousands of birds and is considered one of the prime birding sites in Southern California. Learn about a variety of birds from the Amigos birding experts. Free and open to the public.

Nature hike photo

Quarterly Nature Hike

Quarterly Nature Hike:  Starts 8:00 am, second Saturdays of the Months of March, June, September and December.  Meet at the Brightwater Trailhead at the intersection of Bolsa Chica St. and Brightwater Dr. in Huntington Beach: https://goo.gl/maps/oYze3PSj9FCVHwKE8 . Park on street, and bring water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and light hiking boots. Explore the amazing beauty of Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve on a 3–5-mile hike led by Amigos Naturalists. Learn about the wildlife, birds, endangered species, plants, ecology, history, and restoration while hiking through the wetland habitats.

 
 

Over 200 Species of Bird

Like all wetlands, Bolsa Chica sequesters carbon from the atmosphere and acts as a natural barrier and filter for runoff pollution. Designated an Important Birding Area by the National Audubon Society, Bolsa Chica is a year-round home, nesting area, and important migratory stop for over 200 species of birds.

 
Learn the history before you visit

We spearheaded an effort that resulted in the state’s acquisition of 880 acres of the Bolsa Chica.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

  • Limited free parking is available in the south parking lot at 18000 Pacific Coast Highway — (half way between Warner and Seapoint directly across the Highway from the State Beach entrance — or at the Warner Avenue entrance to the Reserve.

  • Pets of any kind are not permitted at the Reserve, with the exception of registered service animals.

  • The footbridge at the south parking lot is ADA compliant. Most of the other trails at the Reserve are flat and covered with decomposed granite.

  • The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is designated as a Marine Protected Area, and fishing is prohibited throughout the Reserve. There is one, designated fishing location to the right of the walk bridge at the Warner Avenue entrance to the Reserve. Permits are required.

  • Bikes and drones are prohibited at the Reserve.

  • The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is home to several endangered and threatened bird and plant species. Fences are necessary to prevent public disturbance to nesting areas or areas where sensitive plants are in need of protection. All areas where the public should not enter are indicated with posted signage.