North County Nature Paddle
Be an Ocean Connector and discover the natural beauty of Agua Hedionda Lagoon on a guided kayaking tour through this unique coastal ecosystem in Carlsbad. Paddle through calm waters while learning about local conservation efforts, wetland restoration, and the rich biodiversity that makes this area so important.
This eco tour is suitable for all experience levels and offers a meaningful way to connect with nature while supporting environmental education and stewardship.
What to Expect:
- Wildlife Viewing: Watch for native birds and other wildlife as you explore the lagoon by kayak.
- Educational Insights: Learn about lagoon ecology, restoration projects, and sustainable aquaculture.
- Birding Support: Binoculars and bird identification guides are provided to enhance your experience.
- Guided Exploration: Enjoy expert-led interpretation while paddling through this peaceful marine habitat.
Join us for an inspiring on-the-water experience highlighting the importance of preserving San Diego’s coastal resources.
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Group Size | Maximum 25 |
| Ticket Cost | $85/$65 |
| Season | Year Round |
North County Nature Paddle Highlights
What a great day out on the water! Thank you to the Ocean Connector team for organizing a great trip and for all you do to educate about conserving our oceans.
Featured Wildlife
What’s Included – Carlsbad Kayaking/SUP Eco Tour
What You Need to Know – Carlsbad Kayaking/SUP Eco Tour
FAQs Carlsbad Kayak and SUP Eco Tours
How is this kayaking tour different than Wildlife Kayaking?
This tour is typically less physically demanding than our Wildlife Kayaking tour and takes place in a different type of habitat. While Wildlife Kayaking explores the restored wetlands and protected areas of the San Diego Bay, this tour takes you through the more open waters of Agua Hedionda Lagoon in Carlsbad. The lagoon features a mix of saltwater marsh, mudflats, and upland areas, offering unique opportunities to observe different plant and animal habitats. You’re more likely to see non-seabirds here, including species like red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures, along with a variety of coastal wildlife
You do not need any prior birding experience to join this trip! Our naturalist guide will help you identify birds and share interesting facts as well as teach you about local ecology and conservations efforts. The Agua Hedionda Lagoon is a hotspot for birdlife and as a result there is something for everyone. In other words, you do not need to be an expert birder to enjoy this tour!
What fitness level is required?
Since this is a wildlife viewing tour we will paddle slowly to be able to enjoy nature and wildlife. There is no minimum required fitness level to participate in this tour. If you have any physical limitations, please let us know in advance.
What makes this an “eco” tour?
Ocean Connectors is a nonprofit program with a mission to educate, inspire, and connect youth in underserved Pacific coastal communities through the study of migratory marine life. When you purchase your Eco Tour ticket all proceeds go directly back to our youth education programs. All of our tours also focus on environmental education and conservation and align with our mission to educate, inspire and connect. We hope to inspire guests to get involved in protecting our oceans!
How does my ticket purchase support youth education?
Ocean Connectors provides presentations and field trips for all public elementary and middle schools in National City, as well as 27 schools in Nayarit, Mexico. Our vision is to cultivate a future generation of passionate, globally-aware, and empowered coastal residents who take active steps to enjoy and protect ocean health. All proceeds of your ticket price goes directly toward these free youth education programs.
