June 01
No matter where you turn, there is something new to discover when staying at InterContinental San Diego. Located along the downtown waterfront, our luxurious hotel is the ideal home base for everyone from families to couples. One of the best things to do during your stay with us is to spend as much time as possible soaking in the sunshine. For an outdoor adventure away from the beach, head to the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
What to Know about the California Refuge
It only takes about 20 minutes to drive from our downtown hotel to the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Regure in Chula Vista. This California wildlife refuge is comprised of over 2,600 acres of land and water in and around the bay.
The natural attraction features two units: Sweetwater Marsh and South San Diego Bay. The first was established on the bay’s east side in 1988 and is roughly 316 acres. The second unit was dedicated in 1999 and is around 2,300 acres. The refuge as a whole protects migratory, endangered, native, and threatened species and their habitats.
If you want to visit the Sweetwater Marsh Unit, head to the Living Coast Discover Center and board the shuttle that’ll bring you to the refuge gates. The shuttle runs approximately every 15 minutes, and this unit is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The other area is open from sunrise to sunset.
What to Do on Your Visit
There’s a reason this place is a nature lover’s paradise. There is no shortage of things to do during your visit that will surround you with breathtaking scenery.
- Go on a bird walk offered by the Living Coast Discover Center to see what species you can find, including ospreys, snowy egrets, burrowing owls, and more.
- Walk along one of the numerous trails in the refuge. The Bayside Birding and Walking Trail is a short .4-mile path, while the Gunpowder Point Interpretive Trail is a bit longer at .61 miles.
- Let a knowledgeable wildlife educator show you around on a Sweetwater Safari guided nature walk. To book a tour, contact the Living Coast Discover Center.
Escape to a Luxury San Diego Hotel
After a long day outside at the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, there’s nothing better than returning to your luxurious accommodation at InterContinental San Diego. Grab a drink by the rooftop pool, or satisfy your hunger at one of our world-class restaurants.
If you decide you want a quiet night in, your spacious hotel room has everything you need to do just that. Watch a movie on the flat-screen TV from the comfort of your cozy bed, complete with treats from room service. Call 619-501-9400 to learn more about what you can expect out of your stay or ways to save.
