OCLB – Grunion Run at Bolsa Chica State Beach

Grunion Run at Bolsa Chica State Beach

Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 10:30 PM

Grunion are small, silvery marine fish that come completely out of the water to spawn on the sand during the high tides after the new and full moon.

These fish are only found along the Southern California and Baja California coastlines; therefore, witnessing them “dancing” on the sand is truly a California experience. Unfortunately, since the highest tides usually occur after beach curfews, it is very hard to watch this natural phenomenon on your own.

Bolsa Chica State Beach offers a guided program that allows registered participants to safely park and watch the grunion run. State park staff will give visitors a short, educational program on the grunion before heading out on the sand to observe the fascinating mating ritual of these fish and enjoy s’mores by a complementary bonfire.

The Grunion Run takes place at Bolsa Chica State Beach during the hours of 10:30pm-12:30am.

You will be emailed instructions the week of the event on how to access the park and meet up for the guided experience.

The Great Outdoors LA Chapter did a Grunion Run event all the way back in July of 1995!  I was there!  This is a link to the original event flyer:

1995 Grunion Run Flyer

REMINDER: During the open season, a California fishing license is required for persons 16 years and older. Grunion may be taken by hand only. No holes may be dug in the beach to entrap them. The daily bag and possession limit for grunion is 30 fish.

If you have any questions about this event, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Event Leader.

Richard Norman

[email protected]

626-319-4740