Santa Barbara, often lauded as the "American Riviera," boasts a captivating stretch of California coastline. While it may only account for a portion of the state’s extensive shoreline, the beaches that grace Santa Barbara are undeniably among the finest in the Golden State. From secluded havens of tranquility to thrilling surf breaks that challenge even the most seasoned wave riders, Santa Barbara offers a diverse array of coastal experiences to suit every preference.
Before embarking on a journey to discover the 13 best beaches in Santa Barbara, it’s essential to be aware of some general information that will enhance your coastal explorations. The California Coastal Trail network seamlessly connects many of Santa Barbara’s most popular beaches, making it easy to traverse between them by bicycle. This allows visitors to experience the unique character of each beach while enjoying the scenic beauty of the coastline.
Moreover, Santa Barbara is committed to ensuring that its beaches are accessible to everyone. Many of the high-traffic beaches, such as East Beach, Goleta Beach, and Refugio State Beach, offer complimentary beach wheelchairs, some even motorized, to individuals with mobility challenges. Advance reservations are highly recommended to secure these resources and fully enjoy the coastal experience.
It’s also important to note that while all beaches in California are public, it is both illegal and often unsafe to cross railroad tracks without an official crossing. Therefore, beaches that require such a dangerous undertaking, no matter how breathtaking they may be, have been excluded from this list.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that beaches in this region are occasionally affected by naturally occurring tar and oil seeps that rise from below the ocean floor. This can result in tar and oil accumulating on the water’s surface, rocks, and sand. Warning signs are typically posted to alert visitors to this phenomenon. To facilitate easier cleanup, it is advisable to bring along Oil Slick wipes, Goo Gone, mineral oil, or Vaseline, as these substances can effectively remove tar and oil from skin, shoes, surfboards, and clothing.
With these considerations in mind, let’s embark on a journey to explore the 13 best beaches in Santa Barbara, California, each offering its own distinct charm and allure.
1. East & West Beaches: The Heart of Santa Barbara’s Shoreline
No exploration of Santa Barbara’s beaches would be complete without mentioning the iconic East and West Beaches. This dynamic duo, separated by the historic 150-year-old Stearns Wharf, forms the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara’s shoreline. A wide walking and biking path seamlessly connects these two beaches, providing easy access from numerous oceanfront hotels, the eclectic Funk Zone, and the bustling State Street. Spanning four miles, East and West Beaches are the most frequented stretches of sand in the city, attracting locals and tourists alike.
West Beach, situated closer to the harbor and the Small Craft Quiet Water Area, is a haven for kayaking and windsurfing enthusiasts. Its calm waters provide an ideal setting for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. West Beach also serves as the central stage for Santa Barbara’s annual Fourth of July celebration, transforming into a hub of patriotic festivities.
East Beach, on the other hand, pulsates with the energy of competition, boasting over a dozen volleyball courts that host spirited matches throughout the day. Whether you’re a seasoned player or simply enjoy watching the action, East Beach offers a lively and engaging atmosphere.
Together, East and West Beaches provide a comprehensive array of facilities and amenities to cater to every beachgoer’s needs. From well-maintained bathrooms and ample parking lots to delectable restaurants and inviting picnic tables, these beaches have it all. Playgrounds offer endless entertainment for children, while boat and equipment rentals allow visitors to explore the ocean’s depths. Tour operators provide guided excursions, while public art and educational signage add cultural enrichment. Trash cans and showers ensure cleanliness and convenience, and even audio tour stops provide historical context.
2. Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry’s Beach): A Canine Paradise
Arroyo Burro Beach, affectionately known as Hendry’s Beach by locals, has earned a reputation as a haven for dogs. Situated adjacent to the upscale Hope Ranch neighborhood, this beach stands apart from many others in the area, which either require leashes or prohibit dogs altogether. At Hendry’s Beach, dogs are free to chase balls and roam unrestrained on the side east of the creek, delighting in the freedom and open space.
To ensure that dogs remain clean and comfortable, self-serve dog washing stations are conveniently located in the parking lot. The proceeds from these stations are channeled back into park maintenance, contributing to the upkeep of this beloved dog-friendly beach.
After a day of fun in the sun, visitors can gather on the great lawn to witness a breathtaking sunset or participate in a workshop at the on-site Watershed Resource Center. For a more leisurely experience, the Boathouse restaurant offers a cozy setting to enjoy a cocktail by the fire. The restaurant’s patio is also a popular brunch destination, although dogs are no longer permitted inside.
Despite the spacious parking lot, finding a spot can be challenging, especially on beautiful weekends. Arrive early to secure your place and fully enjoy the delights of Hendry’s Beach.
3. Refugio State Beach: A Palm-Lined Oasis
Located 22 miles west of Santa Barbara, Refugio State Beach presents a picturesque crescent-shaped stretch of sand and a tranquil cove. A stately row of palm trees, planted in a nearly perfect line by the Rutherford brothers in the mid-20th century, stands sentinel around the beach, adding to its unique charm.
The natural bay’s calm waters beckon beginner swimmers, fishermen, scuba divers in training, and paddlers of all kinds. Lifeguards offer kayak tours from Memorial Day through August, providing a safe and informative way to explore the coastline.
For those who prefer to remain dry, Refugio State Beach offers opportunities for bird watching, camping, and hiking along the California Coastal Trail. Ascending to the top of the striated escarpments rewards hikers with breathtaking views of four of the Channel Islands. Beach wheelchairs are available to enhance accessibility for all visitors.
4. Goleta Beach: A Hub of Recreation
Goleta Beach, also known as Good Land Beach, is a 29-acre park situated in the suburb of Goleta, near the city’s airport and the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) campus. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible by city bus and bike path.
Goleta Beach offers a plethora of recreational activities to keep visitors entertained for hours. Splash in the shallows, play volleyball or horseshoes, let the kids loose on the playground, fire up a barbeque, or cast a line from the 1,500-foot fishing pier. The boat launch is available on weekends and holidays for a fee, and the Paddle Sports Center offers non-motorized water sports equipment rentals and tours seasonally.
5. El Capitán State Beach: A Natural Sanctuary
El Capitán State Beach, nestled on the Gaviota Coast just 15 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara, feels like a world apart from civilization. This patch of Pacific paradise has a rich history, having served as a Chumash Indian village, a Spanish fortress, and a cattle ranch before becoming a state park and campground in the 1950s.
With its frequent hanging fog and often the region’s clearest water, El Capitán State Beach invites visitors to explore its rocky tidepools, creeks, sycamore and oak groves, and 10 miles of hiking trails that ascend 1,000 feet from the coast to the crest.
During the fall and winter months, low tide brings surfers in search of the elusive west swell and its perfect hollow waves. Campgrounds offer rustic accommodations with hot showers, fire rings, and flushing toilets, providing a comfortable base for exploring this natural sanctuary. From the campgrounds, visitors can often spot playful pods of dolphins and gray whales during their annual migration.
6. Leadbetter Beach: A Coastal Playground
Located across the street from Santa Barbara City College, near the bustling harbor and the breakwater, Leadbetter Beach is a coastal playground loved by boogie boarders, stand-up paddleboarders, and kayakers. Sporadic palm trees, interspersed with picnic tables and grills atop concrete slabs, provide shade and comfort.
Joggers, walkers, and bikers frequently utilize the paved path that lines Leadbetter Beach, enjoying the scenic views and fresh ocean air. Shoreline Park, a short hike up the road, offers panoramic bird’s-eye views of the city. For refreshments, the Shoreline Beach Café is a popular spot to grab a snack or meal.
7. Butterfly Beach: A Montecito Gem
Butterfly Beach, situated in the upscale enclave of Montecito, is renowned for its unique east-west orientation, allowing visitors to witness both the sunrise and the sunset from the same pristine stretch of sand.
This beach is perfect for long walks, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and taking a refreshing dip in the ocean. While there are no services or facilities directly on the beach, restaurants, shops, and bathrooms are just a short walk away on Coast Village Road.
Paddleboarders and kayakers may encounter seals or dolphins during their excursions. To avoid summer traffic and parking hassles, consider renting bikes from Wheel Fun near Sterns Wharf and taking the Cabrillo Bike Path for a leisurely three-mile ride.
8. Ellwood Mesa: A Wild and Open Space
Ellwood Mesa, a 230-acre wild and open space in Goleta, offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. A wander through this area is likely to result in butterfly sightings, particularly between November and February when over 100,000 monarchs congregate in a preserved grove nestled within a thicket of trees.
Outside the Golleta Butterfly Grove, 10 miles of mesa-top dirt trails cater to runners, bikers, and horseback riders. Beach access is also available, but requires an almost mile-long walk from the car and a willingness to forego basic amenities such as bathrooms.
The wind can be strong in this section of shore, making it a popular spot for kiteboarders, windsurfers, and remote-control plane enthusiasts.
9. Coal Oil Point: Two Beaches in One
Coal Oil Point encompasses two beaches in Isla Vista that surround the Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve, located at the edge of the UCSB campus.
Devereux Beach, on the east side, is known for its tide pools at low tide, an exposed reef and point break that creates reliable waves for surfing, and the ruins of a 1920s cement beach house.
To the west, Sands Beach is larger and wider, with a history of inspiring famous musicians. According to legend, Jim Morrison and Jack Johnson penned their respective songs "Crystal Ship" and "The Horizon Has Been Defeated" after spending time on this beach.
Sands Beach is also a birder’s paradise, as the dunes serve as nesting grounds for endangered snowy plovers. The nearby Devereux Slough and vernal pools attract ducks, herons, egrets, sandpipers, grebes, and many other feathered friends.
10. Summerland Beach: A Picturesque Panorama
Summerland Beach, topped by Lookout Park, is a popular spot on sunny days, even in winter. Its long stretch of sand, surrounded by towering bluffs and a picturesque panorama, draws beachgoers seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
Families and groups can take advantage of the picnic tables, restrooms, a volleyball court, grills, well-kept lawns, and a playground in the park before descending to the coast. However, it’s worth noting that Summerland Beach is more prone to oil issues than many other beaches in the area.
Before embarking on your adventure, grab a snickerdoodle latte from Red Kettle Coffee, located just a block from the park.
11. Mesa Lane Beach: A Hidden Gem
Mesa Lane Beach, tucked beneath an unassuming residential tract, is a sea-sprayed slice of heaven primarily enjoyed by locals. Timing is crucial when visiting this beach, as a beautiful band of sand and active tide pools are only revealed at low tide. High tide swallows almost every speck of sand, so it’s essential to check the tide charts before your visit.
The 241 steps leading to the sand are popular with fitness enthusiasts. Benches are strategically placed along the landings to provide respite for those in lesser shape. A bike rack is the beach’s only other manmade amenity.
12. Rincon Point State Beach: A Surfing Legend
Rincon Point State Beach, located on the Santa Barbara County line, is a legendary surf spot renowned for its right-hand waves that break on the east side of the rocky point. The beach hosts an annual surf competition, attracting surfers from around the world.
The narrow access point is situated below some coveted houses, restrooms, a parking lot, and a paved bike trail that follows the stunning coastline.
Across the street lies Rincon Park County Beach, which is larger, sandier, and better suited for swimming. At low tide, it’s possible to walk north to the Carpinteria Bluffs. Families with children should be aware that nude sunbathers may be encountered further from the parking lot.
The harbor seal sanctuary is off-limits to protect the pups. However, the bluff trail leads to an overlook, often staffed by a knowledgeable volunteer, where visitors can observe wildlife.
13. Loon Point Beach: Tranquility by the Sea
Loon Point Beach, nestled between Carpinteria and Summerland, is an isolated patch of sand framed by craggy sandstone cliffs and colorful succulents. If you time your stroll correctly, you can venture north to Summerland Beach or south to Santa Claus Beach. High tide consumes much of the walkable area, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
Peaceful and unpopulated, Loon Point Beach is ideal for beachcombing and contemplative walks. The price of this tranquility is a 0.2-mile hike each way from the free Padaro Lane parking lot, which must be repeated every time you need to use the outhouse. As you walk the mostly flat trek, watch out for horses, as they are permitted on the beach.
This concludes our exploration of the 13 best beaches in Santa Barbara, California. Each beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and coastal charm, making Santa Barbara a truly exceptional destination for beach lovers.
