Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge

#5529 among destinations in the United States

National park

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Facts and practical information

The Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. Located in the heart of the Salinas Valley in Monterey County, California, this refuge offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The 367-acre refuge is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including migratory birds, endangered species, and a variety of plant life.

Visitors to the Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge can explore the miles of hiking trails that wind through the marshes and wetlands, offering opportunities to spot a wide range of bird species. The refuge is particularly popular for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the area. Birdwatchers can expect to see herons, egrets, raptors, and waterfowl, as well as the occasional rare or endangered species.

In addition to birdwatching, the Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge offers opportunities for wildlife photography, nature observation, and environmental education. The refuge is a peaceful and serene destination for anyone looking to connect with nature and escape the stresses of everyday life. Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, the refuge has something to offer for everyone.

Established: 1974 (50 years ago)Elevation: 7 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 36°44'21"N, 121°48'14"W

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CaliforniaUnited States

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Day trips

Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Bennett Slough, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Blue Ocean Whale Watching, Kahuna Whale Watching.

4.8 miN
Nature, Natural attraction, Marine reserve
Bennett Slough, Moss Landing
124 min walk • Moro Cojo Estuary State Marine Reserve is a marine protected area established to protect the wildlife and habitats in Moro Cojo Slough.
4.4 miN
Research station, Aquarium, Zoo
Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Moss Landing
113 min walk • The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute is a private, non-profit oceanographic research center in Moss Landing, California. MBARI was founded in 1987 by David Packard, and is primarily funded by the David and Lucile Packard Foundation.
4.3 miN
36°48'2"N • 121°47'10"W
Blue Ocean Whale Watching, Moss Landing
111 min walk • Boat tours, Dolphin and whale watching, Tours
4.3 miN
36°48'1"N • 121°47'10"W
Kahuna Whale Watching, Moss Landing
111 min walk • Boat tours, Dolphin and whale watching, Nature and wildlife tours
3.8 miS
City
Marina
96 min walk • Marina is a city in Monterey County, California, United States. The United States Census Bureau estimated its 2019 population at 22,781. Marina is located along the central coast of California, 8 miles west of Salinas, and 8 miles north of Monterey. Marina is on California State Route 1 between Monterey and Santa Cruz.
6.5 miNE
National park
Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve
165 min walk • Visitors to Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve can explore its network of hiking trails, which wind through a variety of habitats including marshes, mudflats, and woodlands. These trails offer the perfect opportunity to observe the reserve's abundant...
5.3 miN
Beach
Moss Landing State Beach, Moss Landing
136 min walk • Moss Landing State Beach is a state park on Monterey Bay, in Monterey County, California.
3.9 miN
Laboratory, Universities and schools
Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, Moss Landing
100 min walk • The Moss Landing Marine Laboratories is a multi-campus marine research consortium of the California State University System, headquartered at Moss Landing, California.
5.4 miS
Observatories and planetariums
Monterey Institute for Research in Astronomy, Monterey
139 min walk • The Monterey Institute for Research in Astronomy is an independent, non-profit, professional astronomical observatory dedicated to astronomical education and research, near Monterey, California. It is the first private observatory in the United States to open in the 20th century.
5.4 miS
Observatories and planetariums
Weaver Student Observatory, Monterey
137 min walk • The Bette M. and William R. Weaver Student Observatory is an astronomical observatory owned and operated by Monterey Institute for Research in Astronomy.