The coastal shoreline and local marshes can host an impressive list of birds, not to mention the western specialties you can find as you venture inland. This special trip also includes two full days of pelagic boat birding, departing from Half Moon Bay. Marvel at incredible seabirds such as albatrosses, shearwaters, storm-petrels, jaegers, and auklets, while also enjoying sightings of fascinating marine mammals like sea otters, whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions.
This unforgettable journey goes beyond birdwatching—it also contributes to local conservation efforts through a donation, aligning with the Indiana Audubon’s mission. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with nature and support the preservation of these remarkable species and their habitats!
Some of the species’ highlights expected include: Black-footed Albatross, South Polar Skua, all three jaegers, Heerman’s Gull, Elegant Tern, Black Oystercatcher, Black Turnstone, Wandering Tattler, Surfbird, Long-billed Curlew, Snowy Plover, Ridgway’s Rail, California Condor, Clark’s Grebe, Yellow-billed Magpie, California Scrub Jay, Pygmy Nuthatch, Tricolored Blackbird, Bell’s Sparrow, Townsend’s Warbler, and others.
Trip Leaders: Amy Kearns and Austin Broadwater are professional ornithologists with a deep love and appreciation of birds and nature in general. Additionally, Amy has served on the Indiana Audubon Board of Directors, and Austin chairs the Bird Safe Indy initiative with Amos Butler Audubon. Both are experienced trip leaders with a combined 25+ years of birding experience.
Seasickness can be a concern during pelagic seabirding trips. If you have apprehensions about seasickness, we recommend consulting your family doctor or general practitioner for guidance on prevention options. Over-the-counter and prescription medications like Dramamine, Bonine, Marezine, and Scopolamine may be considered, and it’s advisable to seek professional advice on their usage.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1. September 8: Arrive in San Francisco. Overnight at Best Western Plus.
Day 2. September 9: San Franciso Bay and East Bay Hills. Overnight Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hollister.
Day 3. September 10: Birding Moss Landing, Elkhorn Slough, Point Pinos, Point Lobos, and Big Sur. Overnight Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hollister.
Day 4. September 11: Pinnacles and California Condors, Santa Cruz in afternoon. Overnight in Quality Inn & Suites.
Day 5. September 12: San Mateo Coast birding. Overnight at Quality Inn Half Moon Bay.
Day 6. September 13: Pelagic birding from Half Moon Bay. Overnight at Quality Inn Half Moon Bay.
Day 7. September 14: Pelagic birding from Half Moon Bay. Overnight at Quality Inn Half Moon Bay.
Day 8. September 15: Departures for home from San Francisco.
As part of Indiana Audubon’s commitment to conservation in areas we visit, Indiana Audubon will make a 2024 donation towards a conservation initiative along the central California coast.
Indiana Audubon Field Trip Ratings for this trip include:
Birding Pace: Moderate Day Trips-Extended Trip. Multiple days with early starts. On certain days guests may have the opportunity to take a break from the regular. Joining for the early morning birding is highly encouraged as it is the bird’s most active time. Expect more difficult birding during pelagic birding.
Physical Requirements: Medium-Moderate. Birding will cover 1-2 miles and can include irregular trail surface, moderate terrain and elevation change, and possible brush or trail obstacles.
Birding Skill Level: Mid-Level. Though suitable for beginner through experienced, the focus will be on US Western and pelagic specialties. Research of anticipated birds is encouraged.
Included with the Tour:
Not included with the Tour:
Additional Considerations
The trip limit is 10 participants. Prices are based on double occupancy.
$2,795 per person IAS Member. $2,845 per person non-IAS Member.
Single Supplement: $635
$90 surcharge for credit card payments
