This 90-minute, behind-the-scenes hiking tour takes visitors into Younger Lagoon Reserve adjacent to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Part of the University of California Natural Reserve System, Younger Lagoon Reserve contains diverse coastal habitats and is home to birds of prey, migrating sea birds, bobcats, and other wildlife. Come and see what scientists are doing to track local mammals, restore native habitats, and learn about the workings of one of California’s rare coastal lagoons. A tour is offered on selected Thursdays and Saturdays of each month beginning at 10:30 AM.

Book Tour

Younger Lagoon tours are free and open to the public. Space is limited to 18 participants. Advanced reservations are highly recommended. Tours are best suited for children 10 years of age and older. Participants must be physically able to walk up and down steep inclines. Water and weather protection is strongly suggested.

Book Tour

Dates & Availability
Younger Lagoon Reserve Tours are offered on selected Thursdays and Saturdays of each month beginning at 10:30 AM:
  • Saturday, September 14
  • Thursday, September 19
  • Saturday, September 28
  • Thursday, October 3
  • Saturday, October 12
  • Saturday, November 9
  • Thursday, November 7
  • Thursday, December 5
  • Saturday, December 14
Parking
UCSC requires parking permits Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM, except holidays. Hourly and daily parking permits are available through ParkMobile. The ParkMobile zone is 15154. No permits are necessary on weekends or after hours.

Free parking is available near the entrance of the Coastal Science Campus in Lot 207 (3 hours maximum). If parking in Lot 207, plan to enjoy a 15-minute walk to the Seymour Center’s public entrance. See a Coastal Science Campus parking map.

We encourage everyone to arrive by alternative transportation if possible.

  • Buses: Santa Cruz Metro route 22 stops at Seymour Center. Plan your bus route.
  • Bikes: We offer plenty of bike racks around Seymour Center and throughout the Coastal Science Campus.

 

Duration
Approximately 90 minutes for entire tour. Plan extra time to explore the whale skeletons, shark pool, aquarium, and exhibits after your tour.
Virtual Tour

Younger Lagoon Reserve is now offering a virtual tour in both English and Spanish. This virtual tour follows the same stops as our behind-the-scenes hiking tour, and is led by a UC Santa Cruz student! Click on the links below to access either of the tours.

Younger Lagoon Reserve Virtual Tour Reserva Younger Lagoon Paseo Virtual