Explore the Tranquil Beauty of IRWD San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary
Discover the serene beauty of IRWD San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary, a top birdwatching and hiking destination in Irvine, California.
Nestled in the heart of Irvine, the IRWD San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary offers a serene escape into nature. Ideal for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, this stunning sanctuary features winding trails, vibrant wetlands, and an abundance of wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for tourists looking to immerse themselves in California's natural beauty.
A brief summary to IRWD San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary
- Parking lot, 5 Riparian View, Irvine, San Joaquin Marsh, California, 92612, US
- +1949-453-5300
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring binoculars and a bird guidebook to enhance your birdwatching experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven and muddy in some areas.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots within the sanctuary.
- Check the sanctuary's website for any special events or guided tours during your visit.
Getting There
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Public Bus
If you're in central Irvine, locate the nearest bus stop for the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) buses. You can take Route 79 or Route 86, both of which have stops near the San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary. Board the bus heading towards the closest stop to the sanctuary. For Route 79, disembark at the stop on Riparian View. From there, walk approximately 0.3 miles south along Riparian View until you reach the entrance of the sanctuary.
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Bicycle
Rent a bike from a nearby rental shop in Irvine, and head towards the San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary. Start your ride heading south on Bonita Canyon Drive. Turn left onto Michelson Drive, then right onto Riparian View. Follow Riparian View, staying on the bike path, until you arrive at the sanctuary. This route is around 2 miles and offers a scenic ride through the area.
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Walking
If you are staying in the vicinity of the University of California, Irvine campus, you can walk to the San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary. Start at the main entrance of the campus and head south on Campus Drive. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Bonita Canyon Drive, where you will turn right. Follow Bonita Canyon Drive until you reach Riparian View. Turn left onto Riparian View, and walk straight until you see the sanctuary entrance. The total walking distance is about 1.5 miles.
Discover more about IRWD San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary
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