Just 12 miles south of the popular city of Santa Barbara lies an expanse of white sandy beaches at Carpinteria State Beach. Spend the day observing the wild habitats of harbor seals, gray whales, and dolphins, or simply relax on the shore with a good book in hand at one of Carpinteria State Beach cabins.
This conveniently located two-mile round-trip hiking trail starts at the freeway off-ramp. Park your car and take off on foot to the ocean where you’ll enjoy the peaceful views and the scent of eucalyptus trees. When you reach the beach, kick off your shoes and take a seat to observe the harbor seals from the overlook.
If you’re the adventurous type, put on an old pair of shoes and hike over the unique coastal rock formations to Carpinteria Tar Pits, the natural asphalt lakes and fountains of Carpinteria. Be careful, it’s sticky!
This natural wonder of water and vegetation has a convenient boardwalk for easy walking. Join a nature tour to see all the plants, birds, and manta rays in the area.
Whether you decide to rent a room at one of the Carpinteria State Beach Hotels or prefer an experience closer to the outdoors, Carpinteria State Beach has a range of activities and amenities built to make your family’s trip comfortable and memorable.
To a small child, a tidepool is an entire universe waiting to be discovered. Collect shells for eternal memories or learn together about the carefully crafted ecosystem of crabs, starfish, and snails.
Carpinteria State Beach Cabins are cozy and convenient. Whether you need boogie boards, beach chairs, a hot tub, or a swimming pool, you can find a rental that suits your family’s needs.
Nothing builds memories quite like learning to pitch a tent in the outdoors with your loved ones. Join one of the region’s four campgrounds named after the Channel Islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa or San Miguel. In addition to swimming, surfing, hiking and biking, each campground is outfitted with tables, a fire ring, and grill.
