Water & Wildlife

Hey friends, We’ve wandered the redwoods and weathered the coastline, and now it’s time to slow things down and float. This third part of the series is for the paddlers, the birdwatchers, and the quiet observers—the ones who find their peace on the water and at the edges of things.

pelican near trinidad ca

Lagoon Life: Kayak Days & Wildlife Encounters

Table of Contents

Sometimes the most beautiful places are the ones that don’t make a sound. Our coastal lagoons are perfect for this kind of day.

Big Lagoon: Best early in the morning when the water is still. You’ll glide past reeds and catch sight of great blue herons, egrets, grebes, and maybe an otter watching you back.
Stone Lagoon: Rugged and powerful. Paddle to the sand spit and watch the ocean crash while you float on still water. Keep your eyes peeled for harbor seals lounging on the rocks or swimming nearby.
Freshwater Lagoon: Often overlooked, deeply peaceful. Great for sunrise paddles or solo drifts with your thermos. Bald eagles sometimes perch in the tall trees nearby.

Wildlife to watch for: river otters, osprey diving for fish, kingfishers skimming the surface, and pelicans cruising overhead.

What to bring: Layers, dry bag, something warm to drink after, and a deep breath. Always check the wind forecast.

deer in the redwoods

Backyard Wildlife & Window Watch Days

You don’t always have to venture far to feel immersed in the wild.

Birdwatching from Camp: Watch for Steller’s jays, varied thrush, pileated woodpeckers, hummingbirds, and the occasional red-tailed hawk circling above.
Deer at Dawn: Early mornings often bring a slow parade of deer through the edges of the meadow. Keep your coffee quiet and your camera ready.
Porch Time: Sometimes the best immersion is sitting still. No phone, no plan. Just you and the wind in the trees. You might even spot a raccoon, a fox, or a bobcat if you’re very lucky—and very quiet.

You’re part of this place, even if you’re just watching. Nature welcomes stillness.