San Elijo Lagoon
Encinitas, CA
San Elijo Lagoon is a genuine coastal wetland reserve with trails on both the Solana Beach and Rancho Santa Fe sides, a real birding destination distinct from the beaches along the coast just west of it. It's the kind of stop that rewards slowing down rather than rushing through.
A genuinely different kind of stop than the beaches nearby, real value for birders and anyone wanting a quieter walk.
How we score beachesThe trails at the Rios Ave. end in Solana Beach are a good starting point if birding or a quiet walk is the goal.
Trailhead parking at Rios Ave. in Solana Beach and along El Camino Real near Rancho Santa Fe.
Leashed dogs (six foot leash) are welcome on nearly all trails in the reserve, though they are discouraged on the ladder sections of Annie's Canyon Trail.
Migratory birds pass through in the largest numbers during fall and spring, the best windows for serious birding.
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