18751 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Hours:
- Nature Center is open Monday-Friday (8 AM-3:30 PM) Saturday-Sunday (9 AM-2 PM)
- Parking lot hours: Monday-Sunday (8 AM-5 PM)
Overview
Although popular with a lot of locals in the Laguna area, the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park is mostly off the radar of those not from the area. That’s unfortunate because this is a fabulous wilderness area. The coastal canyons located inside this park are some of the last remaining in Southern California. An expansive 40 miles of trails, mostly linked to one another, follow through beautiful Oak and Sycamore lined Woodlands and lead to fantastic views along scenic ridges. While there are no mountain lions that call this wilderness home, other native wildlife can often be spotted on the rocky bluffs overhead, such as mule deer, the long-tailed weasel, bobcats and the red-tailed hawk.
While there are a plethora of trail options inside Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and different sections to park and explore, first time visitors should begin their journey at the parks new headquarters, the Nix Nature Center. This gorgeous nature center offers a stunning view from the patio deck outside, with a courtyard like setting among a stunning meadow and sitting area with lounge chairs. It’s an especially great place to allow children to learn about the local wildlife and eco-system. Inside the Nature Center are viewing areas and plenty of opportunities for children and visitors to learn via interpretive exhibits.
An added bonus to the Nix Nature Center is the many interactive activities they offer, such as scavenger hunts and quarterly wildlife programs featuring live animals, craft projects and more.
Features
- 40 acres of fabulous trails
- Patio deck with Adirondack chairs and viewing area outside of nature Center
- Insect section w/microscope
- Animal viewing area with binoculars
- Multiple interpretive panels and murals
- Fossil digging pit on outdoor patio overlooking the meadow and ridgeline
Getting to Nix Nature Center at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
18751 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Notes, Questions and Thoughts
Is this a fee area?
- Yes, this is technically a fee area. A marginal $3 daily parking fee is required for those visiting and parking at any area of the wilderness park.
Are dogs allowed at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.
Are there restrooms?
- Yes, there are restrooms directly outside of the Nix Nature Center. There are numerous sections of the park however and not all areas may have restrooms so be sure to go before you go.
