Seal Beach Wildlife Refuge Offers Monthly Public Tours

Visitors can spot shorebirds, sea turtles, and endangered rails in the coastal wetlands.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 7:11am

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a coastal wetland scene, with soft, blurred shapes and muted colors suggesting the presence of shorebirds and other wildlife.The monthly public tours of the Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge offer a serene glimpse into the refuge's diverse coastal wetland habitats.Seal Beach Today

The Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge, located in the northwest corner of Orange County, California, offers monthly public tours for visitors to explore the refuge's diverse coastal wetland habitats. During the tours, attendees may have the chance to see shorebirds foraging in the tidal flats, as well as spot the elusive light-footed Ridgway's rail and green sea turtles thriving in the marsh.

Why it matters

The Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge is one of the last remaining coastal wetland habitats in the region, providing critical refuge for a variety of threatened and endangered species. The monthly tours allow the public to connect with and appreciate this important natural resource in their local community.

The details

The tours of the Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge, which is located within the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station, are held on the last Saturday of every month. Visitors must call 562-598-1024 to reserve a spot on the tour.

  • The tours are held on the last Saturday of every month.

The players

Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge

A protected coastal wetland habitat in Orange County, California that is home to a variety of shorebirds, sea turtles, and endangered species.

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What’s next

The next tour is scheduled for April 26, 2026.

The takeaway

The monthly public tours of the Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge provide a unique opportunity for local residents to connect with and appreciate the natural wonders of this important coastal habitat in their community.