Sooner or later all migrating birds show up to enjoy this wonderful lagoon. It’s a simple walk over perfect trails which are so easy and relaxing with excellent view points.
This is the perfect place to take a short walk with your dog or small child. Lagoon is near the beach and has a good view. Good place for when you just walk to walk somewhere but you don't have that much time. Flat.
My wife and I found the Sal Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve somewhat disappointing. There is a nice 45-60 min walk on a loop trail from the visitor's center - but most of the other trails were closed - apparently due to work on the nearby rail tracks. Although the lagoon is attractive, any serenity is destroyed by the nearby coast highway as well as the extensive construction on the adjacent railroad.
We were also disappointed by the lack of wildlife. Though we visited in December, we only saw 4 ducks during the visit. It seems that many of the birds normally wintering over were disturbed by the construction.
The reserve has potential - but my advice would be to wait until the construction is complete before planning a visit.
The Reserve encompasses nearly 1000 acres and has seven miles of trails through 5 different types of habitat. Over 700 species of plants and animals live there. The Lagoon is a major place on the Pacific flyway so good birding especially in the winter. In Feb-Apr lots of flowers.The San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy and San Diego Parks and Recreation are restoring native plants to the area. Lots of benches along the trails to rest and just enjoy the views. In the evenings you might see the herd of mule deer out feeding. There are free guided walks on Saturday mornings and a nice museum with live native animals. Don't miss Franklin, the desert tortoise! Just a wonderful place to spend some time.
Easy walking trail around the lagoon with informative signs and knowledgeable staff in the learning center.
