Surf Beach area has beautiful dunes, coastal flora, and abundant wildlife. Public access is at the Amtrak parking area. The areas north and south of Surf Beach are fenced and closed March through September to protect the Snowy Plover bird nesting spots. From October to February you can walk from Surf Beach to nearby Ocean Beach at the mouth of Read more...
Ocean Beach Park is where the Santa Ynez River meets the Pacific Ocean. Bird-watchers and nature photographers flock to this destination, where all kinds of migratory sea birds can be seen. Please note that access to the beach is closed to the public from March 1 through September 30 due to the Snowy Plover nesting season. Read more...
El Capitan State Beach Campground amenities include picnic tables, fire rings with high metal sides, flush toilets, pay showers, potable water, and a general store. The most appealing amenity of course is the beach, where you can swim, surf, fish, play in the sand, and walk along the shore. For those who are not camping overnight, there is a day use Read more...
Haskell’s Beach Trail This local surf spot has a long history and much of it is showcased in a series of interpretive signs that line the short trail down to the beach. A good place for a range of water sports, picnicking, beach walking or simply enjoying the view. Learn More → Article on the history of Haskell’s Beach at GoletaHistory.com Read more...
Gaviota State Park Gaviota State Park is about 30 miles west of Santa Barbara. For the outdoor enthusiast the park offers a wide range of water sports and traditional activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can choose to fish from a historic pier, scuba dive in a marine conservation area, bag a 2461 foot peak, soak in the Read more...