Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve

This regional park borders the Newport Back Bay and consists of approximately 140 acres of open space. This coastal wetland is renowned as one of the finest bird watching sites in North America. During winter migration, there can be tens of thousands of birds at one time. It is also home to six rare or endangered bird species. The park has a 2-3 mile one-way paved path that is used by walkers, joggers and bicyclists. Additional dirt trails run along the hills. You can park at a variety of points along the road, but many people park at Irvine Ave and University Dr. Dogs must be leashed in the park.