Facility Activities

This refuge is a natural gem, home to the most preserved wetlands in South Bay. Visitors can ride bikes along scenic routes, observe and photograph wildlife, and witness tens of thousands of migratory terns nesting in the heart of the refuge.

You can also get involved through education and interpretation programs with our partners, attend special events, or volunteer during habitat restoration activities.

Whatever you choose, the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful place to relax, explore, and connect with nature.

Wildlife watching

Wildlife can be observed all around the refuge, but the best spots are at Sweetwater Marsh, our Habitat Heroes outdoor classroom, and the Bayside Birding and Walking Trail.

The best times of the year are spring/summer for all the thousands of migrating terns and winter...

Birding

Bird WatchingBird Walks hosted by the Living Coast Discovery Center offer a unique opportunity to experience the wildlife of South San Diego Bay. Guests can explore the trails of the Sweetwater Marsh Wildlife Refuge and encounter species such as snowy egrets, ospreys, burrowing...

Fishing

Hunting and Fishing

Hunting is not permitted on the refuge; however, fishing is allowed in designated open-water areas. The closest fishing piers to the refuge are located at Pepper Park in National City and Bayside Park in Chula Vista.

Seasonal waterfowl hunting...

Boating - motorized

Boating and Kayaking

Within refuge boundaries, boating and kayaking are permitted only in designated open-water areas, not in salt marsh or wetland habitats. Please note that this area is shallow and designated as a no-wake zone.

Public boat ramps are available at...