🌤 Weather at Bair Island Ecological Reserve by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45–73 °F | 54–81 °F | 44–79 °F | 40–62 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Redwood City, 4 mi away, elevation 31 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Bair Island Ecological Reserve is located in California near Redwood City in San Mateo County and is managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, not by California’s state park system. The reserve offers visitors the chance to spot rare and migratory birds and observe diverse wildlife.
Quick Facts
| State | California |
| Nearest City | Redwood City |
| County | San Mateo County |
Things to Do at Bair Island Ecological Reserve
Visitors to Bair Island Ecological Reserve can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities:
- Bird Watching – Spot rare and migratory birds
- Hiking – Explore scenic trails
- Paddling – Paddle along peaceful waterways
- Wildlife Watching – Observe diverse wildlife
Location & Getting There
Bair Island Ecological Reserve is located near Redwood City, California. The park’s coordinates are 37.5296, -122.2167.
Things to Do
Bair Island is made up of three former salt-pond islands, Inner, Middle and Outer, with about 3,000 acres in all. About 2,000 acres on Middle and Outer Bair Island form the ecological reserve, and much of the land has been restored to tidal wetland. The rest belongs to the Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge. CDFW lists wildlife viewing and waterfowl hunting here and no facilities. The boat launch is off Seaport Boulevard in the yacht harbor near the Port of Redwood City.
Best Time to Visit
The ecological reserve is closed every year from February 15 to May 20. The adjacent U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands stay open year-round. In winter, parts of the area may close periodically because of flooding.
Visitor Tips
Bair Island Ecological Reserve is run by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, not California State Parks, so state park day-use fees, passes and ReserveCalifornia do not apply. CDFW lists no facilities, and flying a drone requires a CDFW Special Use Permit. For questions, call the Bay Delta Region office in Fairfield at (707) 428-2002.
Explore More California State Parks
Looking for state parks in California? Discover them in our Best State Parks in California guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Nearby Attractions
Redwood City — adjacent — has a revitalized downtown. San Francisco Bay Trail — through the reserve — offers miles of waterfront walking. Coyote Point Recreation Area — 5 miles north in San Mateo. Stanford University — 5 miles south in Palo Alto. Don Edwards NWR — 10 miles south — has more bay salt marsh.
Nearby parks: If you have extra time, Burleigh H. Murray Ranch is a short drive away, and Half Moon Bay State Beach is a short drive away.
