Andree Clark Bird Refuge
A 42-acre saltwater marsh and vital bird sanctuary on the Pacific Flyway, offering peaceful walks and abundant wildlife viewing.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & bird activity
Andree Clark Bird Refuge
Best Time
Best light & bird activity

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 42-acre saltwater marsh and vital bird sanctuary on the Pacific Flyway, offering peaceful walks and abundant wildlife viewing.
"A hidden gem for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, offering a peaceful escape.
"Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Enhance your birdwatching experience with binoculars for closer views of wildlife.
Wear Comfy Shoes 👟
Opt for shoes you don't mind getting dirty if you plan to explore off paved paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Birdwatching Paradise
Spot over 200 bird species in this vital Pacific Flyway stopover. A haven for avian enthusiasts.

Tranquil Walking Paths
Stroll along improved paths offering scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Saltwater Marsh Ecosystem
Explore a 42-acre saltwater marsh, a crucial habitat for diverse wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Early Bird
Prepare for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Enhance your birdwatching experience with binoculars for closer views of wildlife.
Wear Comfy Shoes 👟
Opt for shoes you don't mind getting dirty if you plan to explore off paved paths.
No Restrooms On-Site 🚻
Plan ahead and use facilities before arriving, as there are no public restrooms.
Photography Ready 📸
Early morning light is perfect for capturing stunning nature shots.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Enhance your birdwatching experience with binoculars for closer views of wildlife.
Wear Comfy Shoes 👟
Opt for shoes you don't mind getting dirty if you plan to explore off paved paths.
No Restrooms On-Site 🚻
Plan ahead and use facilities before arriving, as there are no public restrooms.
Photography Ready 📸
Early morning light is perfect for capturing stunning nature shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Andree Clark Bird Refuge as a peaceful, natural escape with improved paths and abundant birdlife, perfect for a quiet walk or photography. Some mention an unpleasant odor and unsettling encounters, suggesting potential issues with water quality or other visitors.
"Great place to stop and take a quick walk or longer one if you like to get in some miles and steps from a farther away point… The construction on the roundabout has finished and there’s a cool set of new shops and restaurants called the Post across the street… Perfect for a visit to both you can watch the ducks park your car in the slightly updated parking lot, which is small but adequate and there is street parking. The paths and signage have been improved and it makes for a nice way to track over to East Beach or farther on the bike and walking path.. There are no tickets required. This is a public space."
Kara Burton (Karacentral)
"A hidden gem for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, the Andree Clark Bird Refuge offers a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown Santa Barbara. This 42-acre saltwater marsh might not look like much from the road, but it's a vital stopover on the Pacific Flyway and home to over 200 species of birds.
The walking path around the lake provides scenic views and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
What I loved most was the tranquil atmosphere, especially in the early morning when the light is perfect for photography and the birds are most active. The benches scattered along the path offer perfect spots for quiet contemplation or bird watching."
ལྷ ལྷ
"Was excited to come here and walk about. Did see several wayer bird species and turtles. But the smell was nauseating, maybe if i walked the other side i would have been upwind. Also a pair of really creepy guys lurking under a tree with their clothes hanging on a rope. Hope they weren't swimming in that murk! Anyway walked on and came to a locked fence. Was hoping to be able to hike around the lake but no luck. Had to backtrack. 😞 past the creepies who stared at me the whole time. Was so disappointed. Looks like at one time this was a lovely place."
Rob-N-Sue Thompson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The refuge is conveniently located near downtown Santa Barbara. Parking is available in a small, updated lot, with additional street parking nearby.
Yes, there is a parking lot that is described as small but adequate. Street parking is also an option.
Yes, the construction on the roundabout has finished, and the new Post shops and restaurants are across the street, making it easy to visit both.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required. The Andree Clark Bird Refuge is a public space, making it freely accessible to all visitors.
As a public space, the refuge is generally accessible during daylight hours. Early mornings are recommended for the best experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The refuge is home to over 200 species of birds and is a vital stopover on the Pacific Flyway. You might also spot turtles and brush rabbits.
The paths have been improved, making for a nice walk. However, if you plan to go off the paved path, it's advisable to wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty.
Some visitors have reported encountering locked fences, which may prevent hiking around the entire lake. It's best to check current access points upon arrival.
Swimming in the refuge is not recommended due to the murky water and potential for unpleasant encounters.
No, there are no proper restrooms on-site at the Andree Clark Bird Refuge. Visitors are advised to use facilities before their visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the newly opened Post shops and restaurants are located across the street from the refuge, offering convenient dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
The early morning offers the perfect light for photography, capturing the tranquil atmosphere and active wildlife.
Birdwatching is a primary draw, so capturing various bird species is popular. The marsh landscape and morning light also make for beautiful scenic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Strollers & Nature Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Haven for Bird Enthusiasts
For the best experience, bringing binoculars is highly recommended to get closer views of the feathered inhabitants. The improved paths offer good vantage points, but for those who wish to explore the marsh edges, wearing shoes you don't mind getting dirty is a practical tip. The tranquil atmosphere, especially in the early morning, makes it an ideal spot for both dedicated ornithologists and casual nature lovers seeking a peaceful connection with the natural world.
Navigating the Refuge and Surrounding Area
Conveniently, the refuge is situated across the street from The Post, a new development featuring shops and restaurants, making it easy to combine a nature visit with dining or shopping. Parking is available in a dedicated lot, which is described as small but sufficient, with additional street parking options. The proximity to downtown Santa Barbara also makes it an easily accessible escape for a quick walk or a longer nature immersion.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit