Los Cerritos Wetlands Long Beach
A vital coastal wetland sanctuary in Long Beach, offering diverse wildlife, unique landscapes, and opportunities for conservation and exploration.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Guided tours offer access
Los Cerritos Wetlands Long Beach
Best Time
Guided tours offer access

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital coastal wetland sanctuary in Long Beach, offering diverse wildlife, unique landscapes, and opportunities for conservation and exploration.
"Discover the remarkable comeback of this coastal gem through guided tours and volunteer efforts."
Check Tour Schedules First
Much of the wetlands are off-limits. Book guided tours with the Los Cerritos Wetlands Trust for access.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven. Sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring the diverse terrain. [:athletic_shoe:]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Guided Nature Walks
Various access points, check Trust schedule
Explore normally restricted areas with knowledgeable guides. Discover diverse bird species and native flora.

Kayaking Steamshovel Slough
Steamshovel Slough
Paddle through serene waterways, observing wildlife from a unique perspective. A peaceful way to connect with nature.
Volunteer Restoration Efforts
Various locations within the wetlands
Contribute to the preservation of this vital ecosystem. Help plant native species and remove invasive plants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respect the Ecosystem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tour Schedules First
Much of the wetlands are off-limits. Book guided tours with the Los Cerritos Wetlands Trust for access.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven. Sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring the diverse terrain. [:athletic_shoe:]
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience! Spot a variety of waterfowl and migratory birds in their natural habitat. [:bird:]
Support Restoration
Participate in volunteer cleanups or planting events. It's a rewarding way to give back to this precious ecosystem. [:handshake:]
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tour Schedules First
Much of the wetlands are off-limits. Book guided tours with the Los Cerritos Wetlands Trust for access.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven. Sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring the diverse terrain. [:athletic_shoe:]
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience! Spot a variety of waterfowl and migratory birds in their natural habitat. [:bird:]
Support Restoration
Participate in volunteer cleanups or planting events. It's a rewarding way to give back to this precious ecosystem. [:handshake:]
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance and never feed them. This is their home, and we are visitors. [:deer:]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Los Cerritos Wetlands for its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and the dedicated conservation efforts. The opportunity to explore normally restricted areas via guided tours is a significant draw. Some find the limited public access and the presence of industrial elements like oil wells to be less appealing.
"Great place to see wildflowers and nature in general. Not open in it's entirety to the public, only certain days and hours. You need to call ahead and find out the opening schedule."
hugo guevara
"Check out the walking tour put on by the Los Cerritos Wetlands Trust at 8 am on the first Saturday of every month. They lead you onto the wetlands property that is normally off limits to the public. Very informative and nice views you don't from Pacific Coast Highway."
Helen Arens
"This is the last bit of indigenous land that I inhabit with dear concerns we need have a little Indian program for understanding the symbiotic of what nature life I'll be spending this weekend and most weekends to June also get the sweetest Cerritosyacht club is where you can find me a and support Little Google land"
conrad mckay
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Los Cerritos Wetlands are located in Long Beach, California, accessible via Pacific Coast Highway. Specific access points for tours and volunteer events vary, so it's best to check the Los Cerritos Wetlands Trust website for the most current information on where to meet.
Parking availability can depend on the specific access point and event. For guided tours or volunteer days, check with the organizing group for parking instructions. Be aware of parking regulations in surrounding areas, as some visitors have reported tickets for unclear signage.
No, you cannot drive through the Los Cerritos Wetlands. Access is primarily for guided tours, volunteer activities, and designated walking paths. The wetlands are a protected natural area, and vehicle traffic is restricted to preserve the environment.
Public transportation options to the general vicinity of the Los Cerritos Wetlands exist via Long Beach Transit buses. However, reaching specific access points for tours or events might require a short walk or ride-share from the nearest bus stop. It's advisable to check Long Beach Transit routes and schedules. [:bus:]
The best way to navigate the Los Cerritos Wetlands is by joining a guided tour or participating in a volunteer event. For self-guided exploration, stick to marked trails and be aware that much of the area is not publicly accessible. The AllTrails app can be helpful for identifying accessible loop trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, you do not need tickets for general access to the publicly accessible areas. However, to explore restricted parts of the wetlands, you must join a guided tour organized by the Los Cerritos Wetlands Trust. These tours are often free or by donation.
The wetlands do not have set public opening hours in the same way a park might. Access is typically limited to scheduled guided tours and volunteer events. It's crucial to check the Los Cerritos Wetlands Trust calendar for specific dates and times.
Entry to the publicly accessible areas of the Los Cerritos Wetlands is free. Guided tours offered by the Los Cerritos Wetlands Trust are also often free, though donations are greatly appreciated to support their conservation efforts.
Guided tours are usually announced on the Los Cerritos Wetlands Trust website and social media. The first Saturday of every month at 8 am is a common time for their walking tours. It's recommended to check their site for the most up-to-date booking information.
You can visit the publicly accessible areas and trails on your own. However, to experience the full diversity and learn about the conservation efforts, joining a guided tour is highly recommended, as much of the land is normally off-limits.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The wetlands are a haven for diverse wildlife, including numerous bird species (waterfowl, egrets, shorebirds), marine life, and native plants. It's a critical habitat for rare species.
Popular activities include guided nature walks, birdwatching, kayaking in areas like Steamshovel Slough, and participating in volunteer restoration events. The landscape also offers unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, there are walking trails, particularly in the publicly accessible areas. The AllTrails app mentions a flat, easy 1-mile loop. Guided tours also follow specific routes within the wetlands.
Absolutely! The unique blend of natural coastal wetland, native plants, and even distant oil wells creates a distinctive landscape. Sunrises and wildlife sightings offer excellent photographic subjects.
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and binoculars for wildlife viewing. If participating in a volunteer event, check if gloves or tools are provided or if you should bring your own. [:waterwave:] [:sunwithface:] [:camerawith_flash:]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food or dining facilities directly within the Los Cerritos Wetlands. Visitors should plan to bring their own snacks and water or dine in nearby Long Beach or Seal Beach before or after their visit. [:forkandknife:]
The wetlands are situated near the vibrant areas of Long Beach and Seal Beach, both offering a wide array of dining options. From casual cafes on Main Street in Seal Beach to diverse restaurants in Long Beach, you'll find plenty of choices.
While there are no designated picnic areas within the wetlands, you may be able to find suitable spots in adjacent public areas or parks. However, it's essential to pack out all trash to preserve the natural environment. [:picnic_table:]
📸 📸 Photography
The wetlands offer diverse photographic opportunities, from serene water views and native flora to abundant birdlife. Areas like Steamshovel Slough and overlooks during guided tours provide unique perspectives.
Wildlife photography, landscape photography capturing the unique coastal wetland scenery, and macro photography of native plants are popular. Sunrises and sunsets can also create dramatic shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always be respectful of the environment and other visitors.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, often referred to as the 'golden hours.' These times also coincide with increased wildlife activity.
Tripods are generally permitted for personal photography, especially during guided tours or on designated trails. However, ensure your setup does not obstruct paths or disturb wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited. Sun protection is also essential. The wetlands are a living classroom, offering a memorable and educational experience for children interested in wildlife and environmental stewardship.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
The unique coastal wetland landscape, with its native flora and evolving ecosystem, also appeals to landscape photographers and nature lovers. The ongoing restoration efforts add a layer of interest, showcasing the resilience of nature and the impact of conservation work.
🌍 Eco-Conscious Travelers
By supporting organizations like the Los Cerritos Wetlands Land Trust through donations or participation in events, you help ensure these vital natural areas remain protected for future generations. Understanding the history of the wetlands' recovery also offers a powerful lesson in environmental stewardship.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Comeback of the Wetlands
These restoration projects involve planting native species, removing invasive plants, and improving water flow to reconnect the wetlands with adjacent bays and the ocean. This revitalization is crucial for supporting the diverse wildlife that calls this area home, including many rare plants and animals.
Visitors can witness this ongoing recovery firsthand through guided nature walks and volunteer opportunities. It's a testament to what can be achieved when a community unites to protect and restore its natural heritage.
Experiencing the Wetlands: Tours and Volunteering
Volunteering is another fantastic way to engage with the wetlands. Organizations like the Los Cerritos Wetlands Stewards regularly host cleanup and restoration events. These events are a feel-good way to contribute directly to the ecosystem's health, whether you're helping to plant native gardens or remove invasive species. It's a chance to connect with like-minded individuals and make a tangible difference.
Kayaking through areas like Steamshovel Slough offers a unique perspective on the wetlands, allowing for quiet observation of the wildlife and the serene aquatic environment. These experiences provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for this vital coastal habitat.
Wildlife and Biodiversity
Beyond birds, the wetlands support a complex ecosystem that includes marine life, insects, and a rich variety of native plant species. The ongoing restoration efforts are vital for re-establishing and protecting these habitats, ensuring the survival of rare and sensitive species. The blend of dry natural landscapes with the presence of oil wells creates a unique, albeit sometimes contrasting, environment that artists and nature enthusiasts find compelling.
Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars to enhance their wildlife viewing experience, as many species can be observed from designated trails and during guided tours. Respecting the wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and avoiding disturbance is paramount to preserving this delicate ecosystem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit