How to Plan a Preserve Tour in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is renowned for its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant waterfront, and dynamic urban culture. But beyond the boardwalks and high-rises lies a quieter, equally compelling world—the city’s protected natural preserves. These green sanctuaries offer a rare blend of coastal ecology, native wildlife, and serene landscapes, all within a short distance from the bustling downtown. Planning a preserve tour in Long Beach isn’t just about stepping outside; it’s about immersing yourself in a carefully preserved ecosystem that supports over 200 species of birds, native plants, and sensitive habitats threatened by urban expansion.

Whether you’re a local resident seeking a weekend escape, a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or a visitor looking to experience California’s biodiversity beyond the typical tourist spots, a well-planned preserve tour can transform a simple outing into a meaningful, educational, and rejuvenating experience. Unlike traditional sightseeing, preserve tours demand awareness—of trail conditions, wildlife behavior, seasonal changes, and conservation ethics. This guide walks you through every critical step to plan a successful, responsible, and deeply rewarding preserve tour in Long Beach.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Identify Your Purpose and Audience

Before selecting a preserve, define the goal of your tour. Are you looking for birdwatching, botanical exploration, photography, family-friendly hiking, or educational fieldwork? Each preserve in Long Beach caters to different interests. For example, the Los Cerritos Wetlands is ideal for birding and educational groups, while the El Dorado Nature Center offers shaded trails perfect for families with children. Knowing your audience—whether it’s solo travelers, school groups, seniors, or photography clubs—will influence your choice of location, duration, and necessary equipment.

Step 2: Research Available Preserves in Long Beach

Long Beach is home to several officially protected natural areas, each with unique characteristics:

• Los Cerritos Wetlands: Spanning over 150 acres, this is the largest remaining salt marsh in southern Los Angeles County. It’s a critical stopover for migratory birds and features boardwalk trails and viewing platforms.
• El Dorado Nature Center: A 65-acre urban oasis with over 3 miles of trails, this preserve includes riparian woodlands, meadows, and ponds. It’s managed by the City of Long Beach and offers guided tours.
• Bluff Park and the Long Beach Shoreline Habitat Restoration Project: Located along the coast, this area features native dune vegetation and coastal scrub. It’s ideal for learning about beach ecology and erosion control.
• San Gabriel River Trail Corridor (Long Beach Segment): While primarily a trail system, portions pass through protected riparian zones with native willows and sycamores.

Visit the City of Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine website and the Los Angeles Audubon Society’s preserve map to compare habitats, accessibility, and seasonal highlights. Note which preserves require reservations or have restricted hours.

Step 3: Check Seasonal Conditions and Best Times to Visit

Preserve ecosystems are highly sensitive to seasonal changes. Spring (March–May) is ideal for wildflower blooms and migratory bird activity. Summer (June–August) brings heat and fewer birds, but offers excellent opportunities to observe resident species like the California gnatcatcher and western pond turtle. Fall (September–November) is perfect for insect activity and seed dispersal studies. Winter (December–February) is the peak season for waterfowl—look for ducks, herons, and even the occasional snowy egret.

Avoid visiting during heavy rain, as trails may become muddy or flooded. Always check the local weather forecast and preserve-specific alerts. Some areas close temporarily for habitat restoration or nesting seasons. For example, parts of Los Cerritos Wetlands restrict access from February to July to protect nesting birds.

Step 4: Choose Your Route and Duration

Plan a route that matches your group’s fitness level and time availability. El Dorado Nature Center offers three main loops: the 0.8-mile Discovery Loop (flat, wheelchair-accessible), the 1.5-mile Meadow Loop (moderate), and the 3-mile Nature Trail (challenging, with elevation gain). Los Cerritos Wetlands features a 1.2-mile boardwalk loop with interpretive signs.

For a half-day tour (2–4 hours), combine one preserve with a short walk and observation stops. For a full-day experience, consider pairing El Dorado with a visit to the nearby San Gabriel River Trail for a longer hike. Always include buffer time for unexpected delays, wildlife sightings, or photo opportunities.

Step 5: Obtain Permits and Reservations

While most preserves in Long Beach are open to the public without charge, organized groups (10+ people) must register in advance. The El Dorado Nature Center requires reservations for guided tours, school field trips, and photography shoots. Submit requests through the City of Long Beach’s Parks and Recreation portal at least two weeks ahead.

Commercial photography, drone use, and scientific research require special permits. Even if you’re not a professional, if you’re bringing tripods, lighting equipment, or recording audio for public use, check the regulations. Unauthorized drone use is strictly prohibited in all city preserves to protect wildlife.

Step 6: Prepare Your Equipment and Supplies

Essential gear for a preserve tour includes:

• Binoculars: A pair with 8x or 10x magnification is ideal for birdwatching and observing distant wildlife.
• Field guide or app: Download the Merlin Bird ID app or carry a printed guide to California birds and native plants.
• Water and snacks: Hydration is critical, even on short walks. Bring reusable bottles and non-perishable, eco-friendly snacks.
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Wear moisture-wicking layers. Long sleeves and pants protect against poison oak and insect bites.
• Sturdy footwear: Closed-toe shoes with grip are essential—trails can be muddy, rocky, or uneven.
• First aid kit: Include tweezers for tick removal, antiseptic wipes, and allergy medication.
• Reusable bag for trash: Practice Leave No Trace principles by carrying out everything you bring in.

Do not bring pets. Dogs and other animals disturb native wildlife and are prohibited in most preserves. Service animals are permitted but must remain leashed.

Step 7: Notify Someone of Your Plans

Even on short tours, safety matters. Inform a friend or family member of your itinerary: which preserve you’re visiting, your expected return time, and your contact details. If you’re leading a group, designate a point person to carry a fully charged phone and a physical map. Cell service can be spotty in wooded or wetland areas.

Step 8: Arrive Early and Respect Opening Hours

Most preserves open at sunrise and close at sunset. Arriving early gives you the best chance to observe wildlife at their most active—birds forage in the morning, reptiles bask in early light, and insects emerge with the dew. It also helps you avoid crowds and secure parking. El Dorado Nature Center’s parking lot fills quickly on weekends. Arrive by 8:00 a.m. for the best experience.

Step 9: Conduct Your Tour with Mindful Observation

Once on-site, move slowly and quietly. Speak in low tones. Avoid sudden movements. Use your binoculars to observe from a distance. Never feed wildlife—this alters natural behaviors and can be harmful. Stay on designated trails to prevent soil erosion and habitat damage.

Take notes or photos (without flash) to document your observations. Record species names, behaviors, weather conditions, and time of day. This data can contribute to citizen science projects like iNaturalist or eBird.

Step 10: Debrief and Reflect

After your tour, take time to reflect. What did you observe? What surprised you? Did you notice any signs of human impact—litter, invasive plants, trail erosion? Share your experience with others, either through social media, a blog, or a local nature group. Reflection deepens learning and fosters environmental stewardship.

Best Practices

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics provides a framework for minimizing human impact. Apply these seven principles to your preserve tour:

1. Plan ahead and prepare: Know the rules, weather, and terrain.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces: Stick to trails and boardwalks.
3. Dispose of waste properly: Pack out all trash, including food scraps and tissues.
4. Leave what you find: Don’t pick flowers, collect rocks, or remove feathers.
5. Minimize campfire impact: Fires are prohibited in all city preserves.
6. Respect wildlife: Observe from afar. Never approach or chase animals.
7. Be considerate of others: Keep noise low and yield to others on trails.

Support Conservation Through Ethical Engagement

Preserves thrive because of community support. Consider volunteering with the Long Beach Parks Foundation or joining a habitat restoration day. Many preserves host monthly cleanups, invasive species removal, and native planting events. Participation not only helps the environment but also connects you with like-minded individuals.

Donate to local conservation organizations such as the Los Cerritos Wetlands Conservancy or the Audubon Society of Greater Los Angeles. Even small contributions help fund trail maintenance, signage, and educational programs.

Use Technology Responsibly

Apps like iNaturalist, Merlin Bird ID, and Seek by iNaturalist can enhance your tour by helping identify species and contributing to scientific databases. However, avoid using your phone’s flashlight at night, and never play audio recordings to lure birds. These practices disrupt natural behavior and are considered unethical by conservation professionals.

Educate Others

Preserve tours are powerful teaching moments. If you’re leading a group, share facts about the ecosystem: “This salt marsh filters pollutants from stormwater,” or “This native buckwheat supports 15 species of native bees.” Encourage questions and curiosity. The more people understand these spaces, the more likely they are to protect them.

Document and Share Responsibly

Photography is encouraged, but always prioritize the well-being of wildlife over the perfect shot. Never enter sensitive areas to get a photo. If an animal flees, you’re too close. Share your images on social media with context: “Spotted a California least tern at Los Cerritos Wetlands—endangered species, protected under federal law.” Use hashtags like

LongBeachPreserves and #SaveOurWetlands to raise awareness.

Tools and Resources

Official Websites and Portals

• City of Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine: www.longbeach.gov/parks – Official information on preserve hours, permits, and events.
• Los Cerritos Wetlands Conservancy: www.lcwconservancy.org – Educational resources, volunteer sign-ups, and birding checklists.
• El Dorado Nature Center: www.longbeach.gov/eldoradonaturecenter – Guided tour schedules, school programs, and trail maps.
• California Native Plant Society – Long Beach Chapter: www.cnps.org/chapters/long-beach – Native plant identification guides and restoration events.

Mobile Applications

• Merlin Bird ID (Cornell Lab of Ornithology): Identifies birds by photo, sound, or location.
• iNaturalist: Record sightings and get community help with species identification. Data feeds into global biodiversity databases.
• Seek by iNaturalist: Offline-capable app for kids and beginners—no account needed.
• AllTrails: User-generated trail reviews, elevation profiles, and accessibility ratings for Long Beach preserves.
• Google Earth: Use satellite imagery to scout trail layouts and terrain before your visit.

Printed Resources

• “Birds of Southern California” by Roger Tory Peterson – Compact field guide with illustrations.
• “California Wildflowers” by the University of California Press – Comprehensive guide to regional flora.
• El Dorado Nature Center’s free trail guide – Available at the visitor center or downloadable online.

Local Organizations and Events

• Long Beach Audubon Society: Hosts monthly bird walks and educational seminars.
• Surfrider Foundation – Long Beach Chapter: Offers coastal ecology workshops and beach cleanup events near shoreline preserves.
• California State Parks – Los Angeles Region: Coordinates regional conservation initiatives that include Long Beach preserves.

Mapping and Navigation Tools

Download offline maps via Google Maps or AllTrails before entering areas with limited cell service. Print a paper map as backup. Many preserves have QR codes at trailheads that link to digital maps and audio guides. Use these to enhance your experience without relying on data.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Family Nature Day at El Dorado Nature Center

The Ramirez family—parents and two children aged 7 and 10—planned a Sunday morning tour at El Dorado. They reserved a free 90-minute guided “Discovery Walk” through the Nature Center’s website. Armed with binoculars, a printed bird checklist, and a reusable water bottle, they arrived at 8:30 a.m. The guide, a trained naturalist, pointed out a red-tailed hawk soaring overhead, a painted turtle sunning on a log, and the fragrant blooms of California lilac. The children used the Seek app to identify 12 species, earning digital badges. They packed out all trash and left with a list of plants to grow at home to support pollinators. The family returned the next month for a butterfly gardening workshop.

Example 2: A Birding Photographer’s Expedition to Los Cerritos Wetlands

Photographer Lena Kim visited Los Cerritos Wetlands at dawn during peak migration season. She arrived at 5:30 a.m., parked at the designated lot, and walked the boardwalk with her telephoto lens and tripod. She followed the “Birding Hotspots” map provided by the Conservancy and captured images of a rare black-necked stilt, a flock of American avocets, and a great blue heron fishing in the shallows. She uploaded her photos to iNaturalist with precise location data and submitted them to the eBird platform. Her observations were later used by researchers to track migration patterns in the region. She shared her experience on Instagram, tagging @LBCerritosWetlands and encouraging followers to visit responsibly.

Example 3: A High School Environmental Science Class Field Trip

Students from Long Beach Polytechnic High School spent a full day exploring both El Dorado and the shoreline habitat restoration site. Their teacher, Ms. Rivera, partnered with the City’s Environmental Education Program to design a curriculum-based tour. Students collected soil samples, measured water pH in a pond, and documented invasive plant species like ice plant. They presented their findings to the City Council, which led to the adoption of a student-led native plant nursery initiative. The project received a state environmental education grant and continues to operate today.

Example 4: A Solo Mindfulness Walk at Bluff Park

After a stressful week, retired teacher Daniel Lee began visiting Bluff Park each Thursday morning. He walked the coastal trail slowly, practicing mindfulness and breathing exercises. He kept a journal, noting the changing seasons: the first blooming of seaside daisy in March, the arrival of migrating shorebirds in October. Over time, he became a regular observer and reported a decline in plastic debris after a community cleanup. He now leads small, silent walking groups of seniors, promoting mental wellness through nature connection.

FAQs

Can I bring my dog on a preserve tour in Long Beach?

No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted in Long Beach’s natural preserves. They disturb wildlife, spread invasive seeds, and can damage sensitive habitats. Service animals are allowed but must remain on a leash at all times.

Do I need a permit to take photos in a preserve?

For personal, non-commercial photography, no permit is required. However, if you’re using tripods, lighting, drones, or filming for commercial purposes (social media monetization, advertising, etc.), you must apply for a permit through the City of Long Beach Parks Department. Drone use is strictly prohibited in all city preserves.

Are the trails wheelchair accessible?

Yes. El Dorado Nature Center’s Discovery Loop is fully wheelchair accessible with paved paths and accessible restrooms. Los Cerritos Wetlands features a boardwalk that accommodates wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Always check the official website for current trail conditions before visiting.

What should I do if I see an injured animal?

Do not touch or attempt to rescue the animal. Note its location and contact the Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control at (562) 940-6891. They have trained wildlife responders who can safely assist.

Is there an entrance fee for the preserves?

No. All city-managed preserves in Long Beach are free to enter. Donations are accepted but not required. Guided tours and educational programs may have nominal fees for materials or staffing.

Can I bring food and picnic?

Picnicking is allowed only in designated areas. El Dorado has picnic tables near the visitor center. Los Cerritos Wetlands does not allow picnicking on the boardwalk or in sensitive zones. Always dispose of food waste properly and never feed animals.

How do I report vandalism or littering in a preserve?

Report incidents to the City of Long Beach Parks and Recreation Department via their online reporting portal or by calling (562) 570-3200. Provide the preserve name, location, and description of the issue. Your report helps maintain these protected areas.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes. El Dorado Nature Center offers free guided walks on weekends. Los Cerritos Wetlands hosts monthly birding tours led by Audubon volunteers. Check the City’s events calendar for schedules. Private group tours can be arranged with advance notice.

What’s the best time of year to visit?

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most biodiversity. Spring brings migratory birds and wildflowers; fall features insect activity and seed dispersal. Winter is ideal for waterfowl. Summer is hot but still rewarding for resident species.

Can I collect plants or shells?

No. All plants, animals, rocks, and shells are protected under city and state law. Removing anything from a preserve is illegal and harms the ecosystem. Take only photos and memories.

Conclusion

Planning a preserve tour in Long Beach is more than a leisure activity—it’s an act of environmental stewardship. These protected spaces are not just scenic backdrops; they are vital lifelines for native species, buffers against climate change, and living classrooms for communities. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you ensure that your visit leaves no trace, supports conservation, and deepens your connection to the natural world.

Each trail you walk, each bird you observe, and each plant you learn to identify strengthens the collective effort to preserve these irreplaceable habitats. Long Beach’s preserves are reminders that nature thrives even in the heart of a major city—if we choose to protect it.

So lace up your shoes, grab your binoculars, and step gently into the wild spaces that make Long Beach extraordinary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, there’s always more to discover—and more to protect.