Exploring the Bayshore Bikeway: A Coastal Delight

Willet with Western Sandpipers

Last weekend, we ventured onto the Bayshore Bikeway, taking the stretch from Imperial Beach to Otay Valley Regional Park. This easy 3.7-mile trail was perfect for a sunny day outing, offering scenic views, refreshing breezes, and an abundance of birdlife to enjoy along the way.

Overlook

Starting Along the Coast

Trail View

Our hike began at Imperial Beach, where the wide-open sky welcomed us. The trail was flat and well-maintained, making for an easy, leisurely walk. We were instantly captivated by the sparkling water on one side and the vibrant marshlands on the other.

Sticky Baccharis

Say's Phoebe and Coastal Residents

Say's Phoebe

Early on, we spotted a Say's Phoebe perched on a post, its warm cinnamon coloring catching the light. The marshlands soon came alive with activity as Western Sandpipers and Willets foraged along the shoreline, their quick movements and reflective silhouettes mesmerizing to watch.

Willets

Curlews and Egrets

Long-billed Curlew

Further along the trail, a Long-billed Curlew stood tall, its distinctive curved bill making it easy to identify. Not far from it, a Great Egret waded gracefully through the shallow water, its snow-white plumage glowing against the backdrop of the marsh.

Great Egret

Wigeons, Warblers, and Finches

American Wigeon

A group of American Wigeons floated serenely in the water, their soft whistling calls adding a gentle soundtrack to the scene. Among the bushes nearby, we caught sight of many Yellow-rumped Warblers, their energy infectious as they flitted from branch to branch in search of food.

Yellow-rumped Warbler

A vibrant House Finch also made an appearance, perched on a nearby shrub and feasting on Toyon berries.

House Finch

Diverse Birdlife in the Marshlands

Common Yellowthroat

The variety of birdlife along the trail continued to impress us. We spotted a Common Yellowthroat, its bright yellow chest standing out vividly in the reeds.

Savannah Sparrow

A few Savannah Sparrows hopped along the path, while a Blue-grey Gnatcatcher darted between branches with its characteristic quick movements.

Blue-grey Gnatcatcher

Northern Harriers and Other Highlights

Northern Harrier

As we walked further, a pair of Northern Harriers soared above us, their low, graceful flight mesmerizing.

Black Phoebe

A Black Phoebe and a California Towhee were also present along the trail, the latter foraging in the underbrush with its distinctive rust-colored undertail feathers.

California Towhee

Stilts, Yellowlegs, and a Hummingbird

Black-necked Stilts

Nearing Otay Valley Regional Park, the sight of Black-necked Stilts wading elegantly in the water was a highlight.

Greater Yellowlegs

A Greater Yellowlegs stood nearby, its long legs giving it a statuesque appearance. An Anna's Hummingbird flitted nearby, its iridescent feathers catching the sunlight as it hovered momentarily before disappearing into the vegetation.

Anna's Hummingbird

Conclusion

Overlook

Our hike along the Bayshore Bikeway was a delightful blend of coastal scenery and abundant wildlife. The easy trail allowed us to take in the views and birdwatch at a leisurely pace, making for a thoroughly enjoyable morning. As we finished our walk, we felt grateful for this serene escape and the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of San Diego’s coastal environment.

Bridges's Penstemon