Must See! Birding

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Año Nuevo State Reserve

This large breeding colony of Northern Elephant Seals, can be viewed at all times of the year. Guided walk reservations required during the breeding season (Dec.-March). Permits for self-guided tours are available at the gate for the remainder of the year. There is an interpretive center and bookstore. Open 8 a.m.-sunset.

23 miles North of Santa Cruz on Hwy. 1.
(Reservations) 800-444-4445, (Special need reservations) 650-879-2033, (General information) 650-879-0227, www.anonuevo.org

Beaches

Area beaches are open to the public from sunrise to sunset. There are secluded locations as well as large open spaces that are popular for sunbathing, beach volleyball, walks on the sand, picnics and to watch the sunset. Also see parks & beaches.

Elkhorn Slough

The 1,400-acre reserve is the state's largest remaining coastal wetland. It is a stop on the Pacific waterfowl migration route. The Slough attracts sea otters, harbor seals, 346 species of birds, and other wildlife. It also is a recognized natural fish hatchery site. There is a visitor center and five miles of trails. Docent tours depart at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., Sat. and Sun. Open Wed.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Kayaks and canoes allowed. Nature tours by boat available daily.

1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville
831-728-2822, www.elkhornslough.org
Elkhorn Slough Safari 831-633-5555, www.elkhornslough.com

Open Spaces and Protected Habitats

Discover the wonder of the area's natural settings, native habitats and wildlife at over 70 public parks. Experience & connect with the region's unique & diverse eco-systems & have a close-up view of wildlife. Many locations offer nature programs, guided walks, museums, visitor centers & other nature education services.

Pigeon Point Light Station

On the cliffs overlooking the Pacific, this Historic State Park offers one of the most photographed lighthouses. It stands 115 feet high and has been in continuous operation since 1872. Guided walks of the grounds are conducted Fri.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4p.m. Nearby Pescadero Marsh is a sanctuary for more than 150 species of birds.

Hwy 1, 27 miles North of Santa Cruz
www.parks.ca.gov

University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC)

The campus sits high on the hillside overlooking the Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay. Each of its 10 colleges connects via a paved trail system that passes through various forests, riparian and coastal prairie landscapes. There's a 400-acre nature reserve with walks along its 1-mile trail. Many of the university's arts, lecture programs, and attractions welcome visitors. On campus parking is strictly regulated.

Campus main entrance: High and Bay Sts., Santa Cruz
Campus map of trail system and reserve links: maps.ucsc.edu/cdcommon.html

West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz

One of the area's most scenic urban coastline routes. It has a 2-mile path along the bluff's edge, that connects Natural Bridges State Park and the Santa Cruz Wharf and Main Beach.

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Special Interests

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