El Capitán Campground

We think that a cruise down one of California’s most beautiful (and most popular) beaches sounds like a pretty great way to spend an afternoon, and, luckily, El Capitan State Beach offers a variety of trails that will lead you along the coast, or, if you desire, through the delicious coastal landscape that makes up most of the park. The 6 mile round trip El Capitan Beach Trail is perfect for a day trip up to Refugio State Beach. If you are looking for something a little less intensive, try visiting in the summertime and going on a ranger-led interpretive bike ride (call 805-968-1033 for info). Be sure to check out all of the trails here to map your course and get to bikin’!

That endless horizon calls sailors of all kinds, and while you may not be able to launch motorized boats here, those under the power of your own steam are more than welcome! Check out our section on kayaking and canoeing for more information.

These sparkingly blue Pacific waters are known for some seriously good fishing, and, honestly, who could resist wading along this gorgeous coastline, fish or no fish? After you secure your fishing license, check out the fishing forecast then grab your line and pole and get to catchin’ dinner!

So, maybe you don’t want to spend ALL day soaking up the sun and playing in the surf on the beach. Actually, that’s crazy; scratch that: of course you do. But let’s say you wanted to take a break and explore some of the awesome coastal scenery found in the park, including the delightful sandy bluffs that lead up to the shore and the lush groves of coast live oaks, sycamores, and willows. There are several trails that provide all kinds of discovery opportunities, including this easy nature hike that is less than half a mile, making it a nice jaunt for hikers of all skill levels.

If awesome paddling adventures down the Pacific Coast sounds like your idea of a weekend getaway, look no farther than El Capitan State Beach. In addition to the wide expanses of open water that beckon all explorers (and, with it, endless opportunities to blaze your own watery trail), we like this cruise from Refugio Beach in the protected waters of the channel. Paddlers are often treated to visits from sea lions, seals, and all kinds of sea creatures. Need a rental or a guide? No problemo, as there are many in the area, like the Santa Barbara Adventure Company, who are always happy to take your water experience to the next level.

Surfers keep a weather eye on those waters, because some of the best to be had can be found here at El Capitan. On a good day, during a west swell, waves can seem just about endless, making for an awesome ride along some of California's prettiest coastline. There are dangerous rocks along and around the point, however, meaning experienced surfers only. It does tend to get crowded along the point when the waves are up, but you’ll be camping there and have a nice early head start on the day! Check out the current surfing conditions, grab your board, and hit those beautiful waters!

The ocean water can be a little bit chilly, but dedicated marine lovers will have no problem plunging into the protected waters off El Capitan. The south-facing beach is shielded from the heavy northern swells, making it a nice swimming spot. Bring your boogie board or skim board as well, or just enjoy soaking in the salt.

The lush forests that surround the shoreline make for some truly excellent wildlife watching, as the observant will see band-tailed pigeons, flickers, scrub jays as well as raccoons, western gray squirrels and mule deer. The creek is home to black phoebes, California thrashers and wren bushtits. Along the water’s edge, you can find scoters, western and Clark’s grebes, gulls, terns and loons. Dolphins can be seen playing offshore, and the bluff tops give a great perspective to see California gray whales during their annual migration. The park is also home to monarch butterflies and, less glamorously, Southern Pacific rattlesnakes (watch where you step!)