The brackish water of the Newport Bay Ecological Reserve, where runoff from the San Bernardino Mountains meets the sea, supports more than 200 species of birds. This is one of the few estuaries in Southern California that has been preserved, and it’s an important stopover on the Pacific Flyway.
The Muth Interpretive Center , near Irvine Ave and just out of view of the parking lot, is made from sustainable materials. Inside, you’ll find displays and information about the 752-acre reserve, as well as a kid-friendly activity room with a number of small, snake-and-spider-filled terraria. For guided tours with naturalists and weekend kayak tours of the Back Bay contact the Newport Bay Naturalists & Friends .
