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Photo courtesy of Leah Schmidt
Santa Claus Beach
Type: Beaches, Free Attractions, Water
10Best Says
A local favorite, Santa Claus Beach is one of Santa Barbara's best kept sandy secrets. A relatively uncrowded wide stretch of soft white sand, Santa Claus is actually located in Carpinteria, a sleepy... Read More
A local favorite, Santa Claus Beach is one of Santa Barbara's best kept sandy secrets. A relatively uncrowded wide stretch of soft white sand, Santa Claus is actually located in Carpinteria, a sleepy beach town just a short drive (or long bike ride!) from downtown Santa Barbara. Santa Claus gets great, mild waves for all sorts of ocean fun: paddle boarding, boogie boarding, general frolicking etc... The shore offers a shallow, gradual entrance, making this a good beach for younger visitors, too. There's limited shade, so bring an umbrella. Restaurants, shops and board rentals are nearby. Free street parking is first come, first serve.
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Geneva Ives
Santa Barbara Local Expert
- Free Things to Do, Beaches: "Between the natural seashore scenery, mountain backdrop and beachfront homes, you're guaranteed a lot of golden vacation photo opportunities."
- Best for Free Things to Do Because: Santa Claus beach is where the locals go to have a budget-friendly good time.
- Best for Beaches Because: A beautiful, wide beach with a gradual, sloping entrance. Surf and paddle board rentals are right nearby, as well as a few restaurants.
