Moss Landing Wildlife Area: A Coastal Haven
Explore a vital California coastal habitat: birdwatching, hiking, and serene nature trails await at Moss Landing Wildlife Area.
Discover the Moss Landing Wildlife Area, a protected coastal habitat in Monterey County. This area is known for its diverse birdlife, scenic trails, and vital role as a stopover for migrating shorebirds. It offers a serene escape into California's natural beauty.
A brief summary to Moss Landing Wildlife Area
- Moss Landing, California, 95039, US
- +1831-649-2870
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching; the area is home to over 200 bird species.
- Wear layers, as the coastal weather can change quickly. Be prepared for wind, especially during summer months.
- Stay on marked trails to protect the delicate habitat and avoid disturbing nesting birds.
- Visit during early winter or weekdays to avoid crowds.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 1, the easiest access point is just east of the highway, opposite Moss Landing Yacht Harbor. Parking is available across Highway 1 at the boat ramp. Note that the Moss Landing Wildlife Area parking lot is closed for facility upgrades. Parking is free.
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Walking
If you are in Moss Landing, you can walk to the Wildlife Area from various points along Highway 1. Be cautious of traffic as you walk along the highway. The entrance is located on the east side of Highway 1, across from the Moss Landing Yacht Harbor.
Discover more about Moss Landing Wildlife Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Castro Adobe State Historic Park
14.6 km
Explore the authentic heritage of California at Castro Adobe State Historic Park, where history and stunning architecture await every visitor.
Krough House
18.7 km
Step into history at Krough House, a captivating historical landmark in Salinas, California, showcasing the charm and heritage of the area.
San Juan de Anza historic trail terminus
18.7 km
Discover the historical significance and natural beauty at the San Juan de Anza Trail Terminus in Salinas, California.
Peter J. Bontadelli House
18.8 km
Explore the Peter J. Bontadelli House, a historical landmark in Salinas, CA, showcasing architectural elegance and rich local heritage, perfect for history lovers.
Salinas Heritage Murals
18.9 km
Experience the artistry of Salinas Heritage Murals, a vibrant celebration of culture and history through stunning public art in Salinas, California.
Samuel M. Black House
19.5 km
Explore the Samuel M. Black House, a historical landmark in Salinas, California, showcasing architectural beauty and rich local heritage.
SS Palo Alto
21.0 km
Explore the haunting history of SS Palo Alto, a submerged historical landmark offering a unique glimpse into the maritime past of California's coastline.
San Juan Bautista State Historic Park
21.1 km
Discover California's past at San Juan Bautista State Historic Park, where original 1800s buildings and living history events bring the Spanish, Mexican, and American eras to life.
Monterey State Beach
24.3 km
Discover the stunning shores and vibrant marine life at Monterey State Beach – a perfect Californian coastal escape for all.
John Denver Memorial
24.8 km
Explore the serene John Denver Memorial on the Pacific coast, a beautiful tribute to the legendary singer-songwriter amidst stunning ocean views.
Monterey Bay Habitats
25.2 km
Explore the enchanting Monterey Bay Habitats, where marine ecosystems come alive and unforgettable experiences await in Monterey, California.
Sea Otters
25.2 km
Explore the captivating Sea Otters exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium, where playful marine mammals take center stage in a breathtaking underwater habitat.
The Open Sea
25.3 km
Explore the captivating marine life at The Open Sea exhibit in Monterey, California, where education meets breathtaking ocean beauty.
Pacific Biological Laboratories (Doc’s Lab)
25.3 km
Discover the historic Pacific Biological Laboratories, where marine biology meets literary legacy in the heart of Monterey's Cannery Row.
Pacific Biological Laboratories
25.3 km
Explore the historic Pacific Biological Laboratories on Cannery Row, a hub of marine biology and literary history in beautiful Monterey, California.
Unmissable attractions to see
Moss Landing Harbor District
2.4 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant marine life at Moss Landing Harbor District, California's hidden gem for outdoor adventures and coastal dining.
Elkhorn Slough Reserve
3.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Elkhorn Slough Reserve, a nature preserve rich in wildlife and unforgettable landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Salinas River State Beach
5.3 km
Explore the diverse coastal beauty of Salinas River State Beach: dunes, wetlands, wildlife, and panoramic ocean views await near Moss Landing.
Pezzini Farms
8.5 km
Discover the freshest local produce at Pezzini Farms in Castroville, a delightful farm shop celebrating California's agricultural bounty.
Sunset State Beach
9.3 km
Explore stunning sunsets and diverse outdoor activities at Sunset State Beach in Watsonville, a top destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge
9.3 km
Explore coastal dunes, wetlands, and diverse wildlife at this scenic refuge where the Salinas River meets Monterey Bay.
Marina State Beach
14.1 km
Experience thrilling hang gliding, surfing, and stunning sunsets at Marina State Beach, a scenic coastal escape on Monterey Bay.
Santa Rita Park
15.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and recreational charm of Santa Rita Park in Salinas, California, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Handcar Tours
15.4 km
Experience a unique pedal-powered rail adventure through scenic landscapes with Handcar Tours, a memorable activity for families and outdoor enthusiasts. **CLOSING AUG 28, 2025**
Boronda Adobe History Center
15.5 km
Explore California's heritage at the Boronda Adobe History Center in Salinas, a preserved rancho offering a glimpse into the past.
Monterey Bay
15.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and marine wonders of Monterey Bay, California's coastal gem filled with adventure and unforgettable sights.
Salinas Sports Complex
17.6 km
Discover the Salinas Sports Complex - a vibrant event venue in California for sports fans and community gatherings, rich in local culture and excitement.
Tatum's Garden
18.0 km
An inclusive, farm-themed playground in Salinas, CA, where children of all abilities can play and explore together in a safe and engaging environment.
Fort Ord Dunes State Park
18.3 km
Explore Fort Ord Dunes State Park, a coastal gem in California featuring stunning beaches, rolling dunes, and diverse wildlife perfect for outdoor adventures.
Central Park
18.4 km
Discover a verdant sanctuary in Salinas, offering recreation, relaxation, and community events for all ages in a beautiful downtown setting.
Essential places to dine
Tides Waterfront Kitchen
24.5 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine with stunning ocean views at Tides Waterfront Kitchen in Monterey.
Aquarium Cafe
25.2 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Aquarium Cafe on Cannery Row—perfect for families and ocean lovers seeking culinary bliss.
A Taste of Monterey - Wine Market & Bistro
25.3 km
Experience the best local wines and fresh cuisine at A Taste of Monterey - your destination for culinary excellence and artistic inspiration.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
25.3 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., where culinary creativity meets oceanfront views on Cannery Row.
The C Restaurant + Bar
25.3 km
Experience exquisite coastal cuisine at The C Restaurant + Bar in Monterey - where stunning ocean views meet fine dining excellence.
Fish Hopper
25.3 km
Experience coastal dining at its finest at Fish Hopper - where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views in Monterey.
Bistro Moulin
25.4 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Bistro Moulin in Monterey – where elegance meets flavor in a charming coastal setting.
Sly McFly's
25.4 km
Experience vibrant dining at Sly McFly's in Monterey – where fresh seafood meets live music in a lively coastal setting.
Louie Linguini's
25.4 km
Experience fresh seafood delights blended with Italian flavors at Louie Linguini's on Cannery Row in beautiful Monterey.
El Torito
25.4 km
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico at El Torito in Monterey - where every dish tells a story!
Lalla Grill Oceanside
25.4 km
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Whaling Station Steakhouse
25.4 km
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The Sardine Factory
25.5 km
Experience fine seafood dining at The Sardine Factory in Monterey - where exquisite flavors meet stunning coastal views.
El Cantaro
25.5 km
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Chart House
25.5 km
Experience the finest seafood dining at Chart House in Monterey's Cannery Row—where ocean views meet culinary excellence.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ocean Discovery Store
25.2 km
Explore the Ocean Discovery Store for unique ocean-themed gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Monterey's Cannery Row.
Gift and Book Store
25.3 km
Explore the Gift and Book Store at Monterey Bay Aquarium for unique ocean-themed souvenirs, educational resources, and a delightful shopping experience.
Sea Otter Shirts
25.3 km
Discover unique otter-themed gifts and apparel at Sea Otter Shirts in Monterey, a delightful shopping destination along Cannery Row.
Kristonio's
25.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Kristonio's gift shop in Monterey - a must-visit for every tourist!
California Classics
25.3 km
Discover unique California fashion at California Classics, a trendy clothing store in Monterey's Cannery Row, perfect for stylish travelers.
Mackerel Jack's Trading Co
25.3 km
Explore Mackerel Jack's Trading Co on Cannery Row for unique Monterey souvenirs and local artisan crafts that embody coastal California charm.
Unique International Bazaar
25.3 km
Explore the Unique International Bazaar in Monterey for an unforgettable shopping experience filled with international treasures and local artisan crafts.
Monterey's Finest Apparel
25.3 km
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LOLA Monterey
25.4 km
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Memories
25.4 km
Explore the charming Memories Pottery Store in Monterey for unique handcrafted ceramics and local gifts that embody the spirit of the California coast.
Steinbeck Plaza
25.4 km
Experience shopping and local culture at Steinbeck Plaza, a vibrant hub in Monterey, CA, featuring unique shops, eateries, and stunning waterfront views.
The Pebble Beach Outlet Shop
25.4 km
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Sand and Sea
25.4 km
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Enlightenment Zone
25.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Enlightenment Zone, the charming gift shop in Monterey's famous Cannery Row.
Fine Art Turkish Grand Bazaar
25.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
25.3 km
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The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
25.5 km
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Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
25.6 km
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Bulldog Sports Pub
25.7 km
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The Wine Experience
25.7 km
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Pearl Hour
25.9 km
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Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
25.9 km
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LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
26.4 km
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Trident Room
26.4 km
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London Bridge Pub
26.4 km
Discover the delightful mix of British tradition and Californian flavor at London Bridge Pub in Monterey.
Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
26.5 km
Discover craft beer in a historic train station at Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot, a lively brewpub in beautiful Monterey, California.
Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
26.6 km
Discover the Best of California Wines at Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant in Monterey – A Cozy Spot for Enthusiasts and Casual Drinkers Alike.
Del Monte Bar & Grill
26.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Del Monte Bar & Grill, nestled in the scenic beauty of Monterey, California.
Compact Disco
26.8 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Compact Disco, where classic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
26.8 km
Indulge in artisanal cocktails and a cozy ambiance at The Whisky Club, Monterey's premier destination for whisky lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.