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San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center
Photo via Wikimedia (San Elijo State Beach)
FreeParks & Hiking

San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center

Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA

★★★★★4.7(746 Google reviews)

A free nature center with hands-on lagoon exhibits and a second-floor deck looking over the wetland to the ocean, at the head of an easy flat loop trail. The lot holds about nineteen cars — before 10am on weekends or you'll be circling.

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2710 Manchester Ave, Cardiff, CA 92007, USA

(760) 634-3026

Open nowToday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours via Google — confirm before a special trip.

Free

San Diego CountyCardiff-by-the-SeaNature center

Map

What visitors say

  • Evan Gusman★★★★★

    Absolutely stunning views and lots of wildlife. We saw several species of birds including osprey, belted kingfisher, great blue heron, snowy egrets, and great white egrets. There are many soft surface trails that you can walk throughout the lagoon. The visitor center is a great place for kids and adults alike with many different educational exhibits and a gift shop. I highly recommend this spot for nature lovers and families.

    11 months ago

  • Jin-sight★★★★★

    A peaceful yet fascinating journey through a vibrant nature reserve. The area is full of life- you’ll spot a wide variety of plants, birds, and other wildlife. Many people come here to hike with their dogs, enjoying the scenic trails. Along the way, there are several stops with informative signs that explain the local ecosystem. It’s a great place to slow down, learn something new, and connect with nature.

    a year ago

  • Cecilia Becerra★★★★★

    Fave place to walk :) so many diverse birds and plants. Saw a bald eagle today. Check photos as it’s right in the center perched on the bush.

    2 months ago

  • Jennifer Atkins★★★★★

    Small nature center with rangers on duty, educational displays, trail maps and restrooms. Trails are fairly well marked. We only did the loop to the west of I-5 without the spurs or the slot trail. It is about 3 miles total. When you get to the end of the trail you continue over the lagoon via the bike path then on the sidewalk along Manchester. Bring your own water, there are no facilities along the trail. The nature center has a drinking fountain where you can fill up before heading out. Once you head inland it does get warm on the trail despite being along the lagoon. Remember to use the bathroom before you head out as well.

    a month ago

  • SULY PORTILLO★★★★★

    Really nice trail but no shade so come early or late afternoon . The visitor center has a lot of information including trails and snakes a turtle tarantula . It also has taxidermy animal a draw area for kids . Water is available to refill your cups too but only at the entrance

    12 months ago

Reviews from Google · See more on Google Maps

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