Andree Clark Bird Refuge - A bird perches on a rusty fence.
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Andree Clark Bird Refuge

4.6
·126 reviews·Santa Barbara, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Best light & bird activity

CrowdLow
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Andree Clark Bird Refuge - A bird perches on a rusty fence.

Andree Clark Bird Refuge

Best Time

Early mornings

Best light & bird activity

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(126 reviews)

"A hidden gem for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, offering a peaceful escape. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Birdwatching Paradise

Birdwatching Paradise

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

Reddit
Tranquil Walking Paths

Tranquil Walking Paths

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

Reddit
Saltwater Marsh Ecosystem

Saltwater Marsh Ecosystem

Explore a 42-acre saltwater marsh, a crucial habitat for diverse wildlife.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Early Bird

Visit in the early morning for the best light for photography and peak bird activity. The tranquil atmosphere is unmatched before the day gets busy. Reddit

Prepare for Your Visit

While paths are improved, consider shoes you don't mind getting dirty if venturing off paved areas. No restrooms are on-site, so plan accordingly. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Best light & bird activity
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nap time at the Andrée Clark Bird Refuge earlier today. 💙🦆
sbcreeks
6 likes • 137 views

Bring Binoculars! 🔭

Enhance your birdwatching experience with binoculars for closer views of wildlife. Reddit

Wear Comfy Shoes 👟

Opt for shoes you don't mind getting dirty if you plan to explore off paved paths. Reddit

Snowy egret at Andree Clark Bird Refuge in Santa Barbara.
cherylmedow
595 likes • 3.2K views
SLEEPY HEAD Cuteness overload IMO 🤎 This baby goose (gosling) was one of several seen along the walkway near the Andree Clark Bird Refuge in Santa Barbara, California. Mom was close by. 🎥 @loriannah Canon EOS R5 & Canon RF 100-500 mm lens @canonusa #bird #bird_brilliance #andreeclarkbirdrefuge #sleepyanimals #birdphotography #animal #goose #gosling #canon #natgeoyourshot #canonbringit #tea...
loriannah
104 likes • 2.2K views

No Restrooms On-Site 🚻

Plan ahead and use facilities before arriving, as there are no public restrooms. Reddit

Photography Ready 📸

Early morning light is perfect for capturing stunning nature shots. Reddit

A day at the races. #santabarbara #bikepath #biking #beautifulday #lazingonasundayafternoon #happysunday #andreeclarkbirdrefuge
roamwithaview
12 likes • 127 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Binoculars! 🔭

Enhance your birdwatching experience with binoculars for closer views of wildlife. Reddit

Wear Comfy Shoes 👟

Opt for shoes you don't mind getting dirty if you plan to explore off paved paths. Reddit

No Restrooms On-Site 🚻

Plan ahead and use facilities before arriving, as there are no public restrooms. Reddit

Photography Ready 📸

Early morning light is perfect for capturing stunning nature shots. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(126 reviews)

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. Reddit

"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."

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"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

Tranquil atmosphere
Abundant birdlife
Improved walking paths

What People Dislike

Occasional unpleasant odor
Concerns about other visitors

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. Reddit

Yes, there is a parking lot that is described as small but adequate. Street parking is also an option. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required. The Andree Clark Bird Refuge is a public space, making it freely accessible to all visitors. Reddit

As a public space, the refuge is generally accessible during daylight hours. Early mornings are recommended for the best experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Swimming in the refuge is not recommended due to the murky water and potential for unpleasant encounters. Reddit

No, there are no proper restrooms on-site at the Andree Clark Bird Refuge. Visitors are advised to use facilities before their visit. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the newly opened Post shops and restaurants are located across the street from the refuge, offering convenient dining options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The early morning offers the perfect light for photography, capturing the tranquil atmosphere and active wildlife. Reddit

Birdwatching is a primary draw, so capturing various bird species is popular. The marsh landscape and morning light also make for beautiful scenic shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Andree Clark Bird Refuge offers a gentle introduction to nature for families. The improved walking paths are suitable for strollers, and the chance to spot ducks, turtles, and other small wildlife can be exciting for children. Reddit Early mornings are best to avoid crowds and see the most active animals. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site, and ensure children wear appropriate footwear if they plan to explore near the marsh edges. Reddit The nearby Post shops provide a convenient spot for a family meal or a treat after your nature walk. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Strollers & Nature Seekers

For those seeking solitude and a peaceful escape, the Andree Clark Bird Refuge is ideal, especially during weekday mornings. Reddit The tranquil atmosphere and scenic paths provide a perfect setting for quiet contemplation or a refreshing walk. Bring binoculars to fully appreciate the diverse birdlife and find a bench to simply soak in the natural beauty. Reddit Be prepared for the lack of restrooms and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the improved trails. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Haven for Bird Enthusiasts

The Andree Clark Bird Refuge is a significant ecological site, serving as a vital stopover for birds along the Pacific Flyway. With over 200 species recorded, it's a dream destination for birdwatchers. Visitors often report seeing a variety of water birds, and the early morning hours are particularly rewarding for spotting the most active avian life. Reddit The refuge's 42-acre saltwater marsh provides a crucial habitat, supporting a rich diversity of wildlife beyond just birds, including turtles and brush rabbits. Reddit

For the best experience, bringing binoculars is highly recommended to get closer views of the feathered inhabitants. Reddit 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. Reddit 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. Reddit

Navigating the Refuge and Surrounding Area

The refuge offers improved walking paths that connect to a larger bike and walking path, allowing visitors to extend their journey towards East Beach or explore further. Reddit While the paths are generally pleasant, some visitors have noted that certain areas might be inaccessible due to locked fences, limiting the ability to complete a full circuit around the lake. Reddit It's worth noting that there are no restrooms on-site, so planning ahead is essential. Reddit

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. Reddit Parking is available in a dedicated lot, which is described as small but sufficient, with additional street parking options. Reddit The proximity to downtown Santa Barbara also makes it an easily accessible escape for a quick walk or a longer nature immersion. Reddit

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