El Capitán State Beach

California State Beach · Santa Barbara County

⚠️ Current Restrictions

El Capitan State Beach is fully open for day use and partially open for camping as of 6/23/2026.

Show full alert

The middle loops, upper loops and group camp areas are fully open on a first come first served basis through 6/28/2026. On 6/29/2026 the same areas will be open for reservations.
The lower loop (spaces 1-28) is still closed due to active trail construction in that area by the CCC and the CA State Parks trails crew.
The pedestrian path into the park is partially open and there are signs designating the pedestrian walkway adjacent to the closed path.

🚧 Trail closures — check details

Hours8 am to Sunset

Entrance fee$10 / vehicle

CountySanta Barbara

CampingYes

Book a campsite Directions Official California State Parks page Park map Log a visit Campground Map

El Capitán State Beach entrance fee

$10 per vehicle

El Capitán State Beach hours

8 am to Sunset

Hours as published by California State Parks. Check the official page before a long drive.

About El Capitán State Beach

Sandy beach, rocky tide pools and stands of sycamore on the Santa Barbara coast. Swimming, fishing, surfing and camping above the bluff, with a stairway down to the sand.