Hidden Coastal Treasures
The OC Wildlife and Beach Tours
Miles upon miles of beautiful all-natural beachfront and California’s most consistent breaking surf may be the terms many visitors use when describing the coastal wonders of Huntington Beach, but that’s not all Surf City USA and the Orange Country coastline have to offer.
There is another side to this casual California town in which its citizens take pride and that’s ecology, nature and conservation. Because of the long-practiced eco-friendly efforts of its residents, Huntington Beach is a refuge for indigenous natural beauty and wildlife treasures often not even noticed by visitors unless they know where to look.
One such dedicated Orange County resident is Cheri Ikerd, owner and operator of OC Wildlife and Beach Tours. Cheri’s popular tours take visitors from the front door of their hotels into the hidden coves, tide pools and natural environments of Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport and Dana Point that are often hidden from view.
“We have such diversity here in California,” Ikerd explains. “All along the coast, the landscapes and beaches change so much, and there are so many hidden coves; it’s really just amazing to see."
Huntington Beach Natural Attractions
From the bird and wildlife watching opportunities at the Bolsa Chica Wetlands to some of the cleanest beaches on the West Coast, HB’s eco-friendly commitment is as clear as a smog-free view of Catalina Island on a sunny day.
“Huntington Beach is so beautiful,” Inkerd says. “With its 8 miles of unobstructed beaches, ocean views and the Bolsa Chica Wetlands, it’s just gorgeous.”
“As part of the Pacific Flyway, Bolsa Chica is an important north/south route of travel for migrating birds from Canada and the Aleutian Islands,” Inkerd explains. “Its 1,200 acres provide food, water, shelter and space for hundreds of migratory birds from Canada and Alaska including Swallows, Northern Pintails and White Pelicans, so it’s the perfect stop for OC Beach and Wildlife Tour takers.”
Behind the Scenes on the OC Coastline
Outside of Huntington Beach, Ikerd’s tours offer you the opportunity to watch seals, sea lions and dolphins “up-close and personal.” Explore the marine life, fascinating rocks and beautiful shells of tide pools. Discover rarely visited coves. Ikerd's is the only tour authorized to go behind the scenes at the Pacific marine Mammal Center to see the marine life at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, a facility dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating seals and sea lions.
Sightseeing Green
According to Ikerd, it is her mission to help educate the public on conservation and preservation, and to help keep oceans, waterways and wetlands clean for all to enjoy in the future. “I started this business because I knew I wanted to make a difference,” Ikerd said. “I wanted to be a good steward of our ocean and beaches. It’s great to be able to show some people the ocean for the very first time and show them the treasures and natural beauty of Southern California.”
OC Beach and Wildlife Tours’ “You Can Make a Difference Campaign” encourages tourists and locals to do their part for conservation of the ocean and environment by teaching tour-takers about pollution that directly affect sea life, wildlife, birds and natural habitats.
Schedule an OC Wildlife and Beach Tour
OC Wildlife and Beach Tours offers morning and afternoon, half-day/4 - 4.5 hour trips and can accommodate groups as small as four, or as large as 30, including school field trips and corporate retreats.
OC Wildlife and Beach Tours include transportation, educational guide, bottled water and snack
OC Art and Wine Tours are also available. To book a tour, call 949-500-6981 or visit OCWildlifeBeachTour.com.
Or book directly through your hotel at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach, Hilton Waterfront Inn and the just-opened-this-week Shorebreak Hotel.
