The Best Birdwatching Destinations to Visit in the United States This Year
Birdwatching is a great way to connect to nature with an activity that's both peaceful and exciting. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a beginner, there are a number of great birdwatching spots that you can visit here in the United States. Each has something different to offer, from national parks to lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries, so there’s no shortage of options, no matter what you’re looking for. If you love spotting birds in nature, these are the places you should plan to visit for the best birdwatching this year.
Everglades National Park, Florida
The Everglades National Park is a true haven for birdwatchers. With its many different ecosystems, it attracts a wide variety of species, from wading birds like herons and egrets to majestic birds of prey. The park's vast wetlands make it the perfect place to spot rare birds, including the endangered roseate spoonbill. Be sure to visit this National Park during the winter months when migratory birds stop over in the area. Plus, Everglades National Park is one of the most accessible birdwatching spots in the country, with trails, boardwalks, and boat tours that allow you to get up close to nature. There’s a good reason why it’s at the top of our list, and we promise you won’t be disappointed.
Point Reyes National Seashore, California
Located along the coast of Northern California, Point Reyes is one of the best birding spots on the West Coast. Known for its stunning cliffs and diverse coastal habitats, it's a prime location for spotting seabirds, songbirds, and even migratory species. One of the highlights is the annual migration of monarch butterflies, which often comes with the arrival of birds like the Pacific golden plover to the area. The Point Reyes Bird Observatory is an excellent resource for both beginners and experts, offering guided tours and helpful insights into local birdlife. It’s a great spot to check out for anyone looking to learn more about birdwatching.
The Great Dismal Swamp, Virginia and North Carolina
If you're looking for something off the beaten path, the Great Dismal Swamp is something a little different for birdwatching. A vast, remote wetland that straddles the Virginia-North Carolina border, this swampy wilderness is home to a bunch of different species, including the elusive American bittern and the rare swallow-tailed kite. Its diverse landscape, with dense forests and marshes, creates a unique habitat for spotting waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge offers hiking and kayaking opportunities too, if you want to explore this undisturbed environment, making it a great choice for anyone looking to see some rare birds.
San Juan Islands, Washington
This little hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest offers spectacular opportunities for birdwatching. Located off the coast of Washington, the San Juan Islands are known for their rugged coastlines, dense forests, and a thriving marine environment. Sea birds like puffins and auklets are common here, as well as raptors like bald eagles. The islands are also home to several migratory species, making them a perfect stop to visit during migration season. We recommend visiting Lime Kiln Point State Park, one of the best places to spot orcas and other marine birds, all while soaking in the incredible scenery.
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico
Nestled in the Rio Grande Valley, Bosque del Apache is a fantastic spot for birdwatching, especially during the winter months. This refuge draws large flocks of sandhill cranes, snow geese, and a wide variety of waterfowl, creating a spectacle you can’t afford to miss. The early morning and evening hours are the best opportunities to see birds in action as they take flight or settle down for the night. If you're looking for a peaceful, scenic birding experience, this refuge has more than enough to offer. Don’t forget your camera—you won’t want to miss snapping a few shots of the large flocks of birds in action.
Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, Hawaii
Finally, for birdwatchers looking for something truly unique, Hawaii’s Hakalau Forest is an extraordinary destination. Located on the Big Island, this refuge is home to some of the rarest birds in the world, including the Hawaiian honeycreeper. The lush forests, tropical climate, and volcanic landscapes provide a totally different backdrop for birdwatching, and the diverse ecosystem supports a wide variety of native species. The Hakalau Forest offers limited access to visitors, but if you plan ahead and get permits for your trip, you can explore this untouched paradise and see the extraordinary birdlife that calls it home.
Your Birdwatching Adventure Awaits
The United States are filled with incredible birdwatching spots, each offering something special for nature lovers. Whether you're planning on exploring the Everglades or venturing into the Great Dismal Swamp, every destination promises a unique experience. With a little planning, it’s not that hard to get out there and enjoy some of the best birdwatching in the country this year. So now that you know where to go, pack your binoculars and get ready to witness the beauty of our feathered friends in their natural habitats.