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Gaviota State Park - Photo 1
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Gaviota State Park - Photo 3

Gaviota State Park

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Gaviota State Park is a stunning coastal beach located in the heart of Santa Barbara County, California. This beautiful beach is known for its picturesque views, scenic hiking trails, and tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. The park's unique character is shaped by its diverse landscape, which features a mix of sandy beaches, rocky tidepools, and lush vegetation. Visitors can explore the park's many notable features, including its historic pier and the Gaviota Hot Springs, a natural hot spring that flows into a nearby creek. For more information on the park's history and geology, visit the California State Parks website.

Gaviota State Park offers a wide range of activities and amenities that cater to different interests and ages. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and fishing in the Pacific Ocean, or explore the park's many hiking and biking trails. The park is also a popular spot for camping, with several campsites available for overnight stays. Nearby attractions include the Santa Barbara mission and the picturesque town of Solvang, which offer a variety of dining and shopping options. During peak season, the park can get crowded, but visitors can still find plenty of space to relax and enjoy the scenery, and can check the Gaviota State Park website for up-to-date information on crowd levels and parking availability.

The best time to visit Gaviota State Park is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the wildflowers are in bloom. Visitors can access the park through the main entrance, which offers parking and amenities such as restrooms and picnic tables. For visitors with disabilities, the park offers accessible trails and facilities, and more information can be found on the California State Parks Accessibility page. Local tips include arriving early to secure parking and avoiding weekends and holidays when the park is busiest. For more information on recreation activities and planning your trip, visit the Recreation.gov website, which offers a wealth of information on outdoor recreation opportunities in California and beyond.

Quick Answers

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What is Gaviota State Park most known for?

Gaviota State Park is most known for its scenic pier, and great fishing opportunities.

Is Gaviota State Park kid-friendly?

Yes! Gaviota State Park is great for families with lifeguards on duty.

Is Gaviota State Park good for surfing?

Waves are large at 8.7ft - for experienced surfers only.

What is the best time of year to visit Gaviota State Park?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the warmest weather and water temperatures. Summer can be crowded. Fall provides pleasant conditions with fewer visitors.

How are the crowds at Gaviota State Park?

Gaviota State Park is a well-equipped beach with parking, restrooms, and lifeguards, which can attract more visitors especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early for best parking and space.

Is today a good day to swim at Gaviota State Park?

Swimming conditions are challenging today. Current conditions: moderate water temperature (62°F, wetsuit recommended), large waves (8.7ft), experienced swimmers only, lifeguards on duty.

Real-Time Beach Data

Salty delivers real-time intelligence across land amenities, air quality and weather, ocean conditions, and sun exposure.

🏖 LAND

Facilities & Restrooms

Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Drinking water: Yes

Parking & Access

Parking: Yes

Safety & Services

Lifeguard: Yes

Recreation & Sports

Picnic tables: Yes
Bonfire pits: Yes
Fishing: Yes

Food & Beverage

Restaurant: Yes

Accommodation

Camping: Yes
RV camping: Yes

Policies & Access

Wheelchair: Accessible

Special Features

Pier: Yes

💨 AIR

Air temp: 61°F
Wind: 17 mph
Air pressure: 1014 hPa
Feels like: 56°F
Wind direction: S
PM 2.5: 4 µg/m³
Humidity: 89%
AQI: 43
PM 10: 6 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 8 mi
Dew point: 57°F
Conditions: Partly cloudy

💧 SEA

Water temp: 62°F
Wave height: 8.7 ft
Swell direction: SW
Wave period: 8 sec
Current velocity: 1.6 mph
Swell wave direction: W

☀️ SUN

UV index: 0.4
Sunrise: 7:05 AM
Cloud cover: 100%
Sunset: 4:57 PM
Total daylight hours: 9.9 hrs

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