El Capitan State Beach Tours

El Capitan State Beach
El Capitan State Beach


The kids are sure to sleep soundly after a day spent at El Capitan State Beach. Search for cute critters like crabs and snails, stick a toe in the water or toss a Frisbee around!

When you've spent a bit of time at this stretch of coastline in Goleta, visit some of the other attractions in and around this area. Refugio State Beach is not far from El Capitan State Beach and is a favorite with tourists and locals alike.

Plan a trip to see El Capitan State Beach

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
Hotel Californian
Riviera Beach House

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near El Capitan State Beach

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

5 out of 5
8301 Hollister Avenue, Goleta, CA
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
Hilton Garden Inn Santa Barbara / Goleta

Hilton Garden Inn Santa Barbara / Goleta

3 out of 5
6878 Hollister Avenue, Goleta, CA
Hilton Garden Inn Santa Barbara / Goleta
Chumash Casino Resort

Chumash Casino Resort

4 out of 5
3400 East Highway 246, Santa Ynez, CA
Chumash Casino Resort
Wine Valley Inn

Wine Valley Inn

3 out of 5
1564 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA
Wine Valley Inn
The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

4 out of 5
5650 Calle Real, Goleta, CA
The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Vinland Hotel and Lounge

Vinland Hotel and Lounge

3.5 out of 5
1455 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA
Vinland Hotel and Lounge
Corque Hotel, Solvang, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Corque Hotel, Solvang, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

4 out of 5
400 Alisal Rd., Solvang, CA
Corque Hotel, Solvang, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
King Frederik Inn

King Frederik Inn

2.5 out of 5
1617 Copenhagen Drive, Solvang, CA
King Frederik Inn
Royal Copenhagen Inn

Royal Copenhagen Inn

2.5 out of 5
1579 Mission drive, Solvang, CA
Royal Copenhagen Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near El Capitan State Beach

At El Capitan State Beach in Goleta, California, visitors can enjoy beach walking along scenic shores, take in the beautiful coastal views, and explore more sightseeing opportunities in the area. Nature hikes through the surrounding landscapes provide a chance to experience local wildlife and stunning vistas. For those looking to catch some waves, surf lessons are available, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is at Camino Real Marketplace, located 9 miles away, offering a lively public market atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, visit La Cumbre Plaza, 16 miles away, for a family-friendly shopping mall with entertainment options, or check out Rafael Gonzalez House, 19 miles away for unique items.

Recreation

Experience the lush landscapes at Sandpiper Golf Club, located 7 miles from El Capitan State Beach, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Glen Annie Golf Club, 8 miles away, offers scenic views and challenging holes. For a tranquil round, visit Rancho San Marcos Golf Course, situated 10 miles from the beach.

Adventure

Embark on an adventurous hike along the Lost Valley Trail, located 11 miles from El Capitan State Beach, offering breathtaking scenery. Explore the Cabrillo Bikeway, 19 miles away, perfect for biking enthusiasts. The Jesusita Trail, 16 miles from the beach, promises thrilling outdoor experiences amidst stunning landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the excitement at Chumash Casino, 11 miles away, for a romantic night filled with gaming. For a cultural outing, catch a show at Solvang Festival Theater, 12 miles away. End your evening at Cold Spring Tavern, also 11 miles away, for a cozy drink in a lively atmosphere.

Find the best attractions near El Capitan State Beach

El Capitan State Beach offers a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences for visitors. You can enjoy the scenic beach, explore the historic sites, or visit nearby colleges and churches. Key attractions include the stunning El Capitan Beach and the tranquil El Capitan Creek, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration. This destination is ideal for those seeking both natural beauty and rich local history.

  • University of California, Santa Barbara: Located about 10 miles from El Capitan State Beach, this historic university boasts stunning coastal views and a vibrant campus culture. Visitors can explore beautiful architecture, art exhibits, and the picturesque gardens that reflect the laid-back California vibe.
  • Refugio State Beach: Just 2 miles away, Refugio State Beach offers a serene escape with its sandy shores and gentle waves. It's perfect for a relaxing day of sunbathing, picnicking, or swimming in the refreshing ocean, making it a favorite spot for families and beach lovers.
  • Lake Cachuma: About 9 miles from El Capitan, Lake Cachuma is a picturesque destination known for its romantic scenery and outdoor activities. Enjoy kayaking, fishing, or hiking, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that create a perfect backdrop for a scenic getaway.

Best time to go to El Capitan State Beach

The best time to visit El Capitan State Beach is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainSunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
March56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
April60.3°F (15.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighAverage
May63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June68.2°F (20.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July72.1°F (22.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August72.9°F (22.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September71.6°F (22.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October66.7°F (19.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainSunnyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Capitan State Beach

To save on your trip to El Capitan State Beach, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February and November for lower accommodation rates. Staying on a Tuesday can also help you dodge higher weekend prices. Use Expedia to compare hotels by price and book flight and hotel packages for added savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can unlock exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Additionally, explore free activities at the beach and utilize public transport options to keep costs down while enjoying your vacation.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around El Capitan State Beach are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around El Capitan State Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around El Capitan State Beach is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at El Capitan State Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.