Ocean Shores Bird Watching | Coastal Migration Tours

Coastal Shore Birds: Spring Migration Magic

Get ready for a bird lover's paradise on the stunning Washington coast! Darrel DeNune's Nature Guide service is your ticket to witnessing one of nature's most incredible spectacles - the spring migration of coastal shore birds. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just love soaking in the wonders of nature, this trip from Ocean Shores is bound to leave you in awe.

Trip Overview

Picture this: You're standing on the windswept beaches of Ocean Shores, binoculars in hand, as flocks of shorebirds swoop and dance along the coastline. That's exactly what you'll experience on this top-rated wildlife adventure. Choose between a half-day (4 hours) or full-day (8 hours) trip, perfect for fitting into any schedule. At just $50 per person for the half-day or $80 for the full day, it's a steal for the memories you'll make. And if you've got a group of 5 or more, you're in luck – book the full day and score a sweet discount. Just remember to pack some snacks, as meals aren't included. Trust me, you'll be so caught up in the bird action, you'll hardly notice you're hungry!

Binocular Basics & Beach Walks

No need to be a pro birder for this trip – Darrel's got you covered with all the know-how you'll need. We'll start with some quick tips on using binoculars effectively (pro tip: focus on one bird at a time!). Then, we'll hit the beaches, scanning the shoreline and skies for our feathered friends. Darrel knows all the best spots where birds tend to gather, so you're in for some world-class sightings. Be prepared for some light walking on sand and maybe a bit of scrambling over driftwood – nothing too strenuous, but wear comfy shoes and layers for that classic Washington coast weather.

Why Birders Flock Here

Ocean Shores isn't just another beach town – it's a major pit stop on the Pacific Flyway. This means you're in prime position to see thousands of birds as they make their epic journey north. The diversity is mind-blowing: one minute you might be watching tiny Sanderlings scurrying along the water's edge, the next you're gasping at the sight of a majestic Bald Eagle soaring overhead. Darrel's eagle eyes (pun intended) and years of experience mean you won't miss a thing. Plus, with a small group size of just 3 guests max, you'll have plenty of chances to ask questions and really dive into the fascinating world of bird behavior and migration patterns.

Feathered Friends to Find

While we can't guarantee specific species (nature likes to keep us on our toes!), here are some of the showstoppers you might encounter:

Western Sandpiper: These little guys are the stars of the spring show. Weighing in at just an ounce, they're tackling a migration that can stretch over 10,000 miles! Watch for their distinctive feeding behavior – they look like little wind-up toys as they peck rapidly at the sand.

Black-bellied Plover: Masters of disguise, these birds transform from drab winter gray to stunning black-and-white breeding plumage right before your eyes. Their piercing black eyes and chunky build make them easy to spot once you know what to look for.

Caspian Tern: The largest tern in the world, these birds are like the fighter jets of the shore. With striking red bills and a raucous call, you can't miss them diving dramatically for fish. If you're lucky, you might even see a male presenting a fish to a female as part of their courtship ritual.

Brant Goose: These stocky, dark geese are Arctic specialists making a pit stop on their way north. They're crazy about eelgrass, so we'll keep our eyes peeled near any patches we spot. Their low, crooning calls are a sure sign spring is in full swing.

Book Your Birding Bonanza

Look, I could go on all day about the amazing birds we might see, but nothing beats experiencing it for yourself. Whether you're a passionate birder looking to add to your life list or just someone who loves a good day out in nature, this trip is a must-do. The spring migration window is short, so don't wait to book your spot. Give Darrel a call, pack your sense of wonder, and get ready for a day you won't forget. The birds are waiting – are you ready to meet them?