The activities below are offered by a variety of organizations and their dedicated volunteers. All programs are FREE unless noted below. Programs led by IRC-Certified Volunteers require pre-registration, which closes at 4 p.m. on the day prior to the event. No walk-up registrations will be permitted for these events. For policies of other organizations, please use the sign-up information provided. For mobility device policies click here.
Note: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for these events. For programs requiring online registration, each adult and child must be registered. |
Need help? For the fastest answers, look for organization-specific contact information in each event listing (click More Information for full listing). If no contact information is listed, email info@irconservancy.org for assistance.
Click here to learn more about IRC-Certified Volunteers. • Click here to learn more about the Difficulty Ratings.
Saturday, May 13, 2017
Shellmaker Island Discovery Tour

Let by California Department of Fish and Wildlife, join a Naturalist to learn about Shellmaker Island’s rich history; the future of the Back Bay Science Center; and discover unusual and endangered plants, birds and marine life. Bring binoculars if you have them. No latecomers. The program is free. Reservations are required. Please call 949-640-9956 for more information and to RSVP.
Sunday, May 14, 2017
Bird Walk at San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary

Led by Sea & Sage Audubon Society in partnership with the Irvine Ranch Water District, this free monthly bird walk is a great way to learn more about the wonderful world of birds. Discover a diversity of birds with expert birders as we explore the freshwater ponds, San Diego Creek, butterfly garden, and riparian areas of the beautiful 300 acre San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary in Irvine. In spring, we will look and listen for migrating warblers, swallows, flycatchers, orioles, shorebirds and more. We will also watch for nesting behavior of ducks, shorebirds, and raptors. Open to all ages who are interested in bird-watching; children under 11 must be accompanied by an adult. Dress appropriately for a walk around open water. For further information or directions, go to www.seaandsageaudubon.org, or contact the Audubon House Volunteer at 949-261-7963. There is no registration required.
Community Day at the Back Bay Science Center

Come visit the Office of Natural Resources, Recreation and Senior Services Department at the City of Newport Beach at the Back Bay Science Center (located at 600 Shellmaker Road, Newport Beach, CA 92660) every Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. to experience the beauty of Upper Newport Bay while browsing a research and education facility! Explore tidepool touch tanks, observe coastal bay and estuary birds, or examine some biofacts in the Teaching Lab. No reservations are required for this free event and it is open to all ages. For any questions, please contact marineeducation@newportbeachca.gov.
Friday, May 19, 2017
Better Birding Basics – Migrating Birds

Agua Chinon attracts a large number of bird species throughout the year, but is especially “birdy” during migration season. The easy walking trail passes through a restoration area where the supplemental moisture provided by irrigation attracts many birds all year round. In May, the area is a likely stopover point for migrating birds that are just visiting on their way to their winter feeding grounds. Join a group of birders as we look for all kinds of birds, but especially for the rare ones that we generally only see at this time of year. Please wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking, along with sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen. Bring your binoculars, or borrow ours.
Saturday, May 20, 2017
Big Canyon Nature Walk

Led by Newport Bay Conservancy Naturalists on behalf of California Department of Fish and Wildlife, join a highly informative themed plant and bird program. A short walk in an area where several habitats meet, provide a great introduction for those interested in identifying the birds and plants they see at the Bay. If a particular theme is not stated, the Naturalist will discuss items of special interest encountered by the group along the way, such as a bird in breeding plumage or a rare plant that is flowering at the time. Bring binoculars if you have them. There is no charge for the program, but reservations are requested. Please call 949-923-2269 for more information, directions, and to RSVP.
Sunday, May 21, 2017
Community Day at the Back Bay Science Center

Come visit the Office of Natural Resources, Recreation and Senior Services Department at the City of Newport Beach at the Back Bay Science Center (located at 600 Shellmaker Road, Newport Beach, CA 92660) every Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. to experience the beauty of Upper Newport Bay while browsing a research and education facility! Explore tidepool touch tanks, observe coastal bay and estuary birds, or examine some biofacts in the Teaching Lab. No reservations are required for this free event and it is open to all ages. For any questions, please contact marineeducation@newportbeachca.gov.
Wednesday, May 24, 2017
4th Wednesday Habitat Restoration at Quail Hill

Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like weeding and watering native plantings can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact! All training, tools, and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Note that this activity is held on the 4th Wednesday of each month.
Please review the Difficulty Ratings before registering. Understanding the 1-through-5 ratings system will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.
Equestrian Ride: Discover The Natural Wonders Of Weir Canyon

Be prepared to experience the beauty and wonder of Weir Canyon, steeped in history and lore, on this morning equestrian ride. The ride will travel through Weir Canyon, where the trail weaves its way through a beautiful oak woodland inhabited by deer, coyote, bobcat, and many different birds. You will travel the route of the Butterfield Stage and see a monument dedicated to the Mexican ox cart drivers. If time permits, we will climb to the Two Tower vista point to look at distant views. This ride travels on wide trails with several easy to moderate climbs. Equestrians who have trail riding experience and their own fit and able horse are welcome. You will need to transport your horse to the staging area. Owners of unshod horses, please note that footing will include areas of gravel and distances over asphalt pavement. Please bring water on the ride.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.
Sunday, May 28, 2017
Bird Walk – Willow

Spot local native and resident birds with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this 2-mile hike over uneven, sometimes steep terrain (up to 200-ft. elevation gain) through one of the most diverse plant communities in the United States. For ages 12 and up (minors must be accompanied by an adult). Wear hiking or walking shoes and bring your binoculars. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Willow Canyon staging area (west side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, just south of El Toro Road.) Online reservations required. www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. For questions, call 949-497-8324. Parking $3.
Community Day at the Back Bay Science Center

Come visit the Office of Natural Resources, Recreation and Senior Services Department at the City of Newport Beach at the Back Bay Science Center (located at 600 Shellmaker Road, Newport Beach, CA 92660) every Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. to experience the beauty of Upper Newport Bay while browsing a research and education facility! Explore tidepool touch tanks, observe coastal bay and estuary birds, or examine some biofacts in the Teaching Lab. No reservations are required for this free event and it is open to all ages. For any questions, please contact marineeducation@newportbeachca.gov.
Friday, June 2, 2017
First Friday Habitat Restoration in Buck Gully

Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like collecting seed from native plants can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact while enjoying the beauty of Buck Gully near Newport Beach. This activity takes place on sloped terrain and sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. All training, tools, and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Rattlesnakes are occasionally seen here and generally avoid people, but protective gear will be provided.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.
Saturday, June 3, 2017
Back Bay Drive Nature Walk

Led by Newport Bay Conservancy on behalf of California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Newport Bay Conservancy Naturalists lead a walk starting at the entrance of Shellmaker Island along Back Bay Drive. There are great opportunities to view shorebirds, waterfowl, and other birds while learning about this important estuary. Please call 949 923-2269 for reservations which are encouraged, and directions. Bring sun protection and binoculars if you have them.
Sunday, June 4, 2017
Community Day at the Back Bay Science Center

Come visit the Office of Natural Resources, Recreation and Senior Services Department at the City of Newport Beach at the Back Bay Science Center (located at 600 Shellmaker Road, Newport Beach, CA 92660) every Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. to experience the beauty of Upper Newport Bay while browsing a research and education facility! Explore tidepool touch tanks, observe coastal bay and estuary birds, or examine some biofacts in the Teaching Lab. No reservations are required for this free event and it is open to all ages. For any questions, please contact marineeducation@newportbeachca.gov.
Tuesday, June 6, 2017
Birds of Mason Regional Park

Come out and join an OC Parks volunteer and experienced birdwatcher in a program discussing the diversity of birds at Mason Regional Park! On an easy 1/2 mile walk, you will view and discuss a variety of birds that call Mason Park home. We will check for different types of ducks, geese, greebes and songbirds. Water, sunscreen, hats and comfortable shoes are recommended. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars to get the best views of the birds!
Event: FREE, Parking: $3
For questions call 949-923-2220.
*Please note there is an earlier start time than previous walks*
Wednesday, June 7, 2017
Equestrian Ride: Discover The Natural Wonders Of Weir Canyon

Be prepared to experience the beauty and wonder of Weir Canyon, steeped in history and lore, on this morning equestrian ride. The ride will travel through Weir Canyon, where the trail weaves its way through a beautiful oak woodland inhabited by deer, coyote, bobcat, and many different birds. You will travel the route of the Butterfield Stage and see a monument dedicated to the Mexican ox cart drivers. If time permits, we will climb to the Two Tower vista point to look at distant views. This ride travels on wide trails with several easy to moderate climbs. Equestrians who have trail riding experience and their own fit and able horse are welcome. You will need to transport your horse to the staging area. Owners of unshod horses, please note that footing will include areas of gravel and distances over asphalt pavement. Please bring water on the ride.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.
Thursday, June 8, 2017
Second Thursday Habitat Restoration in Newport Bay

Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like weeding and watering native plants can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact while enjoying the beauty of Newport Bay and Big Canyon. All training, tools, and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Note that this activity is held on the 2nd Thursday of each month.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.
Shhh…Hike, Look and Listen

Come end your day with a quiet walk through the calming canyons on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. We will watch for soaring red-tailed hawks, listen to birds quietly sing, and inhale the fragrance of fresh sage. Shed away the day’s repetitions and join us as we take a “slow walk” into Baker Canyon, mindful of all that is happening around us. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight and be prepared for the canyon’s cooler evening temperatures by wearing warm layers. Take in the tranquil evening as we quietly walk along the trails.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.
Saturday, June 10, 2017
Shellmaker Island Discovery Tour

Let by California Department of Fish and Wildlife, join a Naturalist to learn about Shellmaker Island’s rich history; the future of the Back Bay Science Center; and discover unusual and endangered plants, birds and marine life. Bring binoculars if you have them. No latecomers. The program is free. Reservations are required. Please call 949-640-9956 for more information and to RSVP.
Sunday, June 11, 2017
Bird Walk at San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary

Led by Sea & Sage Audubon Society in partnership with the Irvine Ranch Water District, this free monthly bird walk is a great way to learn more about the wonderful world of birds. Discover a diversity of birds with expert birders as we explore the freshwater ponds, San Diego Creek, butterfly garden, and riparian areas of the beautiful 300 acre San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary in Irvine. In spring, we will look and listen for migrating warblers, swallows, flycatchers, orioles, shorebirds and more. We will also watch for nesting behavior of ducks, shorebirds, and raptors. Open to all ages who are interested in bird-watching; children under 11 must be accompanied by an adult. Dress appropriately for a walk around open water. For further information or directions, go to www.seaandsageaudubon.org, or contact the Audubon House Volunteer at 949-261-7963. There is no registration required.
Community Day at the Back Bay Science Center

Come visit the Office of Natural Resources, Recreation and Senior Services Department at the City of Newport Beach at the Back Bay Science Center (located at 600 Shellmaker Road, Newport Beach, CA 92660) every Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. to experience the beauty of Upper Newport Bay while browsing a research and education facility! Explore tidepool touch tanks, observe coastal bay and estuary birds, or examine some biofacts in the Teaching Lab. No reservations are required for this free event and it is open to all ages. For any questions, please contact marineeducation@newportbeachca.gov.