Batiquitos Lagoon Hiking & Birdwatching

On the border of Carlsbad and Encinitas there’s a 610-acre tidal lagoon called Batiquitos Lagoon that is protected from development and water-based activities. It’s a perfect place for birdwatching and hiking, but not kayaking or even fishing (however fishing is allowed at the entrance jetties on South Ponto Beach).

The trail on Batiquitos Lagoon is located on the north shore. The best parking areas are at the ends so you can hike it out and back for a little over three miles. The first is at the end of Gabbiano Lane and the other is at the intersection of Batiquitos Drive and Spoonbill Lane (east of Aviara Golf Club in Carlsbad). The Gabbiano entrance is wheelchair accessible. Dogs are allowed on the trails if on leash. No bikes though.

The Batiquitos Lagoon Nature Center is located just down the paved trail at the Gabbiano entrance. It’s open seven days a week but hours are limited so call ahead.

In 1996 Batiquitos Lagoon was opened to the ocean to slow down the natural filling with silt from creeks that flow into it. Encinitas Creek and San Marcos Creek are the main freshwater sources of this lagoon. The lagoon is now considered an ecological reserve and it’s managed by the California Dept. of Fish & Game.

If you want to get out on a lagoon, then head to Agua Hedionda a few miles north in Carlsbad. There you can go kayaking, SUPing, and even power boating with rentals available.

Address

7362 Gabbiano Ln
Carlsbad, CA 92011

Phone

(760) 931-0800

Website

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