Day Trip: San Elijo Lagoon Reserve Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California

The San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, located in San Diego County, is one of the largest coastal wetlands in Southern California. If you love nature, enjoy walking or hiking, are traveling with kids, or want to capture the breathtaking natural beauty of California, be sure to visit the stunning San Elijo State Reserve. This nearly 1,000-acre wetland is one of the best-kept nature reserves in Southern California and is home to hundreds of native Californian plants, animals, and wildlife species.

San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center

A great place to start your experience is at the Nature Center. Here, you’ll find interactive exhibits, a wealth of information about the preservation and protection of this park, and the native plants and wildlife that grow and live in the reserve. You can also pick up a detailed trail map before you embark on your adventure.

The Nature Center is also a shining example of green energy, running on solar power and practicing new water conservation technologies. The building is even made of entirely recycled materials! It enhances the experience to begin here so that you can recognize some of the plants and animals they describe in detail during your visit to the park.

Trails for Hiking and Nature Observation

The star of the San Elijo State Reserve is the beautiful lagoon and surrounding pockets of shallow pools. As you walk the trails through the park, you will see the blue slips of water that give the park its trademark “wetlands” classification. The largest pools are usually near the coastline, making for a fantastic photo op. There are over 7 miles of trails for hiking, dog walking, nature photography, and family recreation. Yes, Fido is allowed to join you if he is on a leash!

Nature Loop Trail

One of the most popular trails is the half-mile-long nature loop trail. Starting at the San Elijo State Reserve Nature Center, the trail wanders over a boardwalk down to the lagoon. The terrain is mostly flat and great for every level of activity and expertise. This hike is perfect for families with younger children.

Annie’s Canyon Trail

Annie’s Canyon Trail is another popular place to hike at the San Elijo State Reserve. This trail branches off the Lagoon Trail. Highlights of Annie’s Canyon hike include the mushroom caves and a passage through a one-way slot canyon that ends with a ladder you must use to climb out of the canyon. The canyon’s narrow passages and rugged surfaces make it a fun, albeit brief, adventure.

San Elijo Lagoon Wildlife & Vegetation:

The reserve is a critical habitat for numerous species. You can expect to see various birds, especially during migration seasons, including herons, egrets, ducks, and shorebirds. It’s also home to fish, amphibians, and mammals like the endangered California Least Tern and the Southern California salt marsh shrew. The area includes native plants like pickleweed, cordgrass, and various coastal sage scrub species.

San Elijo Lagoon Location and Access:

Access: There are several entry points, including parking areas off Highway 101 at North Rios Avenue in Solana Beach and South El Camino Real in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.

Nature Center Address:

The Nature Center is located at 2710 Manchester Avenue, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, and is open daily from 9 am – 5 pm. You can download a free app from the San Diego Parks and Recreation that will show you hiking trails, points of interest, and general info like where to find parking and restrooms.  Before you visit, check the San Elijo State Reserve Conservancy website for current trail conditions and closures.

Visitor Tips:

Go Early or Late: Avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler parts of the day.
Weather: Avoid hiking during or immediately after heavy rain due to the risk of slippery conditions and the potential for flash floods in the canyon.
Water: There are no facilities along the trail, so bring enough water.
Sturdy Shoes: Good footwear is recommended due to the slot canyon’s rocky and sometimes slippery nature.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are advisable as there’s little shade.

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