You’ve probably passed through this area countless times, whether during your workout session, to go surfing, sunbathe, or just take a walk. It turns out this spot is one of the busiest along the coast. However, hidden in plain sight is a vast, restricted-access area teeming with life.
Roughly 50 minutes south of downtown Los Angeles, this area was once a sprawling wetland. Today, it’s a unique mix of laid-back beach communities, beautiful natural spaces, and active U.S. Naval facilities.
Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge covers 920 acres of salt marsh and upland habitat, all within the Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach. It stands as one of the last untouched natural coastal areas left in SoCal.
As explained on the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website, since its establishment in 1972, the habitats in Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge have been essential for migratory birds of the Pacific Flyway (who use this spot to rest, eat and breed), and support federally and state-listed endangered species.
Among the wildlife that calls this refuge home year-round are the light-footed Ridgway’s rail, the California least tern, and the Eastern Pacific green sea turtle. The refuge also supports the second-largest population in the state of the endangered Belding’s Savannah sparrow, making it a crucial sanctuary for these vulnerable species every season.
You can explore the refuge for free throughout the year (except in December) by joining the monthly walking tours led by the Friends of Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge and refuge staff, every last Saturday of the month. These tours last about two hours and cover a one-mile round trip.
During the tour, visitors are shuttled to the Refuge Headquarters to explore informative displays before setting off on a guided walk. Along the way, specialized tour guides share insights on bird identification, marsh wildlife, and native plants, ending with stunning views from the observation deck overlooking the marsh.
Keep in mind that If you’re planning to visit with a large group of 15 to 20 people, special tours can be arranged year-round with 2 to 3 months’ notice.
📍 Location: 800 Seal Beach Blvd bldg 226, Seal Beach, CA 90740