Nature Collective is making it really easy to spend August outdoors, and we’re here for it. They’ve lined up four free events plus a documentary screening this month – guided tours, family activities, volunteer mornings, and more. Whether you’re bringing the kids or flying solo, there’s something in here for you.

Walk the Lagoon on a Guided Discovery Tour

This one is a treat. Nature Collective leads a guided tour through San Elijo Lagoon’s Nature Center Loop Trail, where you’ll explore riparian and lagoon ecosystems, listen for birds in the salt marsh and mudflats, and get up close with the plant and animal species that make the lagoon so special. Open to ages 9 and up – registration required.

📆 Saturday, August 1 | 10 AM – 11:30 AM
🎟️ RSVP here

Watch a Documentary, Then Hear From the Experts

“The Little Things that Run the World” is an award-winning documentary that uses stunning macro photography to show just how much the tiniest creatures matter to our ecosystems – and it’s screening at Carlsbad City Library.

After the film, a panel featuring Nature Collective’s Sr. Education & Outreach Director Kristin Evans breaks down their Native Plant Pollinator Garden program. Seats are limited, so grab yours early. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids 14 and under.

📆 Saturday, August 1 | 3 PM – 5 PM
📍 1775 Dove Lane, Carlsbad
🎟️ Get tickets here

Explore Butterflies and Plants With the Family

This one is perfect for kids. Families dig into the fascinating relationship between butterflies and the plants they depend on, learning how specific plants host larvae and nourish adult butterflies and moths.

There’s also a hands-on flower-and-butterfly activity to keep everyone engaged. All ages welcome – registration required.

📆 Sunday, August 2 | 10 AM – 12 PM
📍 2710 Manchester Ave, Cardiff-by-the-Sea
🎟️ RSVP here

Roll Up Your Sleeves and Help Restore the Lagoon

If you want to actually do something good for the environment this month, this is your morning. Help remove invasive plants and support native species growth within the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve – real, tangible conservation work that makes a difference.

Open to ages 6 and up (minors with guardians). Meet-up location shared before the event – registration required.

📆 August 5 & 15 | 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM
🎟️ RSVP here: August 5 | August 15

See you there!

Four free events and a documentary screening – Nature Collective is making it genuinely easy to fall in love with the outdoors this August. Register early, spots fill up.

ℹ️ Stay updated with upcoming events here

See you there, San Diego!