California State Parks, Channel Coast District

About Us

The white, sandy expanse of the Carpinteria shoreline was designated a state beach in 1933. It formally opened to the public on July 4, 1941, following the construction of campgrounds, picnic areas, and parking lots by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

The southeastern end near the San Miguel Campground look is a great place to go tide pooling during low tides.

Swimming and surfing are favorite pastimes at Carpinteria SB. It is one of the safer beaches on the west coast due to the shallow, gently sloping beach. Fishing is also popular and a California state fishing license is required. A new boardwalk and mobi mats? provide access to the beach. The boardwalk can also be used as part of an in-park walking loop when combined with the Palm-to-Linden trail that leads to a children?s interpretive play area adjacent to Linden Field in the northwest section of the park.

There are over 200 family campsites as well as 7 group campsites available in the campground. Motor homes and trailers up to 30 ft are allowed. Many of the campsites have hook ups. Site-specific reservations are available and recommended year-round. A hike/bike campground is also available. For reservations, go to www.Reserve.California.com or call 1 (800) 444-(PARK) 7275

For reservations for special events/non-camping reservations, please contact us at carpevents@parks.ca.gov

The visitor center features an indoor tide pool. A variety of activities are hosted by and in partnership with State Parks such as summer campfire programs, movies on Linden Field, walks, Jr Rangers, and pre-Jr Rangers. For an updated activities list, visit the website at https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=599 or check the Facebook page.