Celebrate Earth Day in Huntington Beach
by: Lauren Lloyd
Published: April 22, 2024
HUNTINGTON BEACH...With more than 70 parks, one of California's largest saltwater marshes, and a thriving nature center, Huntington Beach is not only Surf City USA® - it's a nature lover's paradise.
Earth Day is the perfect time to take a leisurely walk outside, partake in an educational outing, or take advantage of stunning photo ops.
We've rounded up four of the best places that celebrated Mother Earth this weekend in celebration of Earth Day on April 22!
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
Covering more than 1,500 acres of fresh and saltwater wetlands habitat and five miles of trails, the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve reigns as the largest saltwater marsh along coastal California between the Monterey Bay and the Tijuana River Estuary. It’s a favorite spot for birders, who score opportunities to spot more than 300 bird species from dawn ’til dusk. Flora lovers can explore five major plant communities, including Salt Marsh, Coastal Strand/Sand Dune, Coastal Sage Scrub, Freshwater Wetlands, and Riparian Woodland. There are three fun ways to take in the breathtaking natural scenery:
- Boardwalk Loop Trail: Park at the south lot along Pacific Coast Highway across from the entrance to Bolsa Chica State Beach and walk the 1.5-mile loop trail along the boardwalk over the marsh, stopping to read the informational signage.
- Interpretive Center: Visit the educational and kid-friendly Interpretive Center , located along Warner Avenue near the corner of Pacific Coast Highway.
- Hiking Trails: Walk the dirt trails through the lowlands and mesas, being sure to stay on the paths to protect sensitive nesting areas.
Please note that dogs and bicycles are not permitted at the reserve.
Shipley Nature Center
Located on the west side of Huntington Beach Central Park along Goldenwest Street, this ecological oasis features 18 acres of fenced California native habitat, 4,000 feet of trails, and an interactive kid-friendly Interpretive Center. Grab a handy numbered trail guide and embark on a self-guided stroll through eight habitats: Oak Woodland, Meadow, Redwood Grove, Coastal Sage Scrub, Blackbird Pond, Riparian Woodland, Torrey Pine, and Southern Oak Woodland. During your educational jaunt, you’ll pass by a monarch butterfly waystation, pond, stunning Buffalo Gourd meadow, and demonstration gardens. Various benches, tree stumps, and Adirondack chairs rest along the trails, offering relief and a place to sit back, relax, and inhale nature. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, from feathery birds to bushy-tailed squirrels. Don’t forget to visit the charming gift shop inside the Interpretive Center before you leave.
Secret Garden
Sprawling across 350 acres, Huntington Beach Central Park is home to open fields, trees, flowers, birds, two lakes, an array of amenities, and a “Secret Garden” filled with busy bees, trees, succulents, and a new Butterfly Garden. Finding it, however, is no secret. It’s located behind the Huntington Beach Public Library in Central Park East and is marked by signage. As you saunter, you might come across a Huntington Beach Tree Society volunteer lovingly restoring the garden. Huntington Beach Central Park is dog-friendly, complete with two separate Dog Parks for small and large canine companions. 18000 Goldenwest Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92647.
Gibbs Butterfly Park
Stroll through this beautiful nearly-acre plot created by the Huntington Beach Tree Society. Its beloved Butterfly Grove provides a sustainable habitat for the majestic monarch butterfly. Take your time and look down at the magnificent circle tiles depicting the winged creature’s metamorphosis stages. 16641 Graham Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Photo:VisitHB