Photo: Deb Kemp
Photo: Daphne French
Photo: Todd D Newkirk
Los Cerritos Wetlands
★4.4(76 reviews)FreeNature
🕑 1.5-2 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Elementary-aged children have the patience for bird watching and trail walking, while older kids and teens will appreciate the educational aspects and photography opportunities. Younger children can enjoy shorter walks, though limited open hours may not align with toddler schedules.🧡 Saved by 23 families
About
Los Cerritos Wetlands offers families a peaceful escape into nature right in the heart of Long Beach, where kids can spot herons, egrets, and other coastal birds along accessible trails. This working wetland preserve provides hands-on nature education through guided programs and self-guided exploration, making it perfect for budding naturalists and families wanting to unplug and connect with Southern California's coastal ecosystem.
Highlights
- ✓Spotting great blue herons, snowy egrets, and seasonal migratory birds along the wetland channels
- ✓Easy walking trails perfect for little legs with educational signage about coastal ecosystems
- ✓Hands-on educational programs that teach kids about wetland conservation
- ✓Peaceful natural setting ideal for introducing children to bird watching and wildlife observation
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during the limited Friday or Saturday morning hours (9 AM - 2 PM) - arrive early for the best bird activity and cooler temperatures
- 2.Bring binoculars for each child and a bird identification guide or app to make wildlife spotting more engaging
- 3.Pack sunscreen, hats, and water as trails have minimal shade; long pants are recommended to protect against brush
- 4.Check their website for special guided nature walks and educational programs which are ideal for first-time visitors
- 5.Park in the small lot off PCH and arrive by 9:30 AM on Saturdays when it's most popular to secure a spot
Best Time to Visit
Early morning on Fridays tends to be quieter than Saturdays, with more active wildlife. Spring (March-May) offers the best bird migration viewing and comfortable temperatures, while fall provides pleasant weather without summer crowds.
What to Know
The preserve is only open Friday and Saturday mornings (9 AM - 2 PM), so plan accordingly. Admission is free, though donations support conservation efforts. Trails are mostly flat and stroller-accessible, but bathrooms and food are not available on-site.
Seasonal Notes
Spring migration season (March-May) brings the most diverse bird species. Summer can be hot with less shade, so early visits are essential. The preserve operates year-round but only Friday and Saturday mornings, and may occasionally close for restoration work.
Nearby Eats
Head to nearby Nick's on 2nd in Belmont Shore (5-minute drive) for casual burgers and outdoor seating, or try Beachwood BBQ & Brewing for family-friendly barbecue with a kids' menu.
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