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Writer's pictureLynn Tran

Bird Watching at the Beach

Updated: Jul 29

Bird watching at the beach offers an unforgettable seaside experience. Enjoy listening

to ocean waves crashing against your feet as you sink your toes into soft, wet sand beneath while discovering new species, such as graceful seagulls soaring overhead or energetic sandpipers frolicking along shorelines—adding an immersive element to any outing for nature lovers and beach lovers alike.


Don't be daunted by the prospect of bird watching—all it requires is a binocular for close observation of birds' behaviors and an app or field guide for species identification. Remember to use a notebook and camera to record your observations!


Early morning and late afternoon are excellent times to observe bird activity at the beach. Birds are most active during these cooler parts of the day, foraging for food and socializing. Ah, they socialize and perform mating dances. Plus, soft lighting during these periods makes for ideal photography conditions, allowing photographers to capture feathered friends in their natural habitat.


What Birds May You Encounter?



Seagulls: These common beach dwellers can be easily observed and are always entertaining to observe when they swoop down to collect treats or fly gracefully over the waves.


Sandpipers: Sandpipers are small yet lively birds often seen flitting near the water's edge, usually moving swiftly with distinct chirping sounds that delight bird enthusiasts.


Pelicans: Pelicans are beloved birds known for their wide wingspans and dramatic dives into the water in search of food, making them one of the highlights of any bird-watching expedition. Watching one drop into the depths to search for fish will surely put a smile on any bird-watcher's face!


Terns: These beautiful white birds wearing caps glide gracefully, often hovering above water before diving for fish. Their calls provide a distinctive sound around the coast.


Herons and Egrets: These graceful wading birds can often be seen prowling the shallow waters for fish with their long necks and sharp bills, making their unhurried movements an absolute pleasure to observe and photograph.


These are just a few frequently seen by the seaside almost year round.


To have an excellent bird-watching adventure:


Practice Silence and Patience. Birds startle easily, so it is best to move quietly and speak softly while waiting and making observations. Ideally, you would want your sights focused on seeing beautiful sightings rather than trying too quickly to spot something!


Dress Appropriately. Choose attire to adapt to changing weather conditions, and remember your hat and sunscreen for sun protection.


Respect Wildlife. To observe birds without disturbing their behavior, it's best to maintain a distance and refrain from trying to feed them; doing so could interfere with their diet and overall well-being.


Bird-watching at the seashore can be an exciting family activity. Children enjoy discovering new bird species, which can provide valuable environmental education opportunities. Make a checklist to explore all kinds of seashore birds together!


Bird-watching adds an enjoyable dimension to beach visits for both experienced birders and curious beachgoers alike. It allows us to slow down and appreciate nature's splendor in new ways while enjoying life at the beach. So grab your binoculars, head for the shoreline, and start bird-watching today—you'll be delighted by all that beauty and diversity surrounding you.


To bring nature and sea birds into your home and office when you're not at the beach, check out our collection of beach arts at our new Azul's Beach Treehouse shop.


Shop for framed prints of all sizes


You can download a personal digital copy and have it framed wherever you are, or you can play it as a collection on your digital screen.



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