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This is a place where you can get awesome views of the ocean without much effort. I would characterize it as a stroll, but note that the path is dirt and uneven at some points. Overall, it's fairly flat, although you do cross an actively used train track at one point. Just look both ways! You can access the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary, the Tar Pits, and Carpinteria State Beach from here, although it might be a longer walk. I parked in a dirt lot. It felt pretty safe as I saw other families also out on the hike.
I just learned about Carpinteria Bluffs a few weeks ago, and last weekend I decided to check it out. It's really easy to find, just go west on Bailard until it ends in the parking lot. There's a sign at the entrance, and a really easy dirt path that goes through trees and shrubs, and along the train tracks. I spotted many birds I don't usually see in Ventura .. that was a treat. There's also a seal sanctuary to one side, & I recommend taking a peek at those cuties for sure. Views of the ocean here are gorgeous. You can cross the tracks for better up close views. When I went it was a bit busy, so I'd recommend going during the week, earlier in the day if possible. No need for a pack or water, it's a very easy stroll, mainly giving you fantastic ocean views.
Nice casual hike along the bluffs. We did about 3 miles on this trail and it has great views of the oceans and you can even see the seals down on the beach when in the right season. You cannot however get close to them as it is a protected area. There is usually someone there guarding and there is also someone on the bluff trails that you can talk to about the seals. They are volunteers who are knowledgeable in the area. You can walk on the beach at some point. There are stair leading down and you can see some cool sea animals on the rocks. It is best not to disturb them and only look. This trail also runs along the an active train track so be careful about that as well. There were a few people riding their bikes on the trail also.
Seals, wildflowers, and ocean bluffs! Good god, this was a lovely place to walk around. I agree with other yelpers that "hike" may not be the best term. It's more a gorgeous place to walk your dog, run, play on the beach, etc. That said, I managed to walk over 3 miles, so it wasn't nothing! How was the seal experience? Really nice! You can stand on a bluff and watch them harrump around- getting comfy and sunbathing. You're definitely not close, but I didn't feel like I was missing anything without binoculars. Is there really a train running through it? Yup! An Amtrak comes by regularly. It honks and I thought was very charming. But, you know, use your best judgement and monitor your kids. How's the beach? Soft, glittering sand and plenty of surfers, who were fun to watch. There are camp grounds along the beach and happy-looking folk playing in the sand or chilling next to their RVs. Any highlights? I loved sitting on the bluffs amidst the beach succulents and watching the waves and horizon. Very relaxing and healing.
Staying in Carpinteria for a few days and looking for some places to go to for walks and hikes. This place came up on yelp so we thought to go see it as it was of very close proximity and walking distance from where we are staying at. What a beautiful place it is. People complain in the reviews that it is not a real hiking spot. People should learn the difference between hiking and walking. Walking constitutes more of a simple and easier surfaces like the flat that you experience going to the bluffs. While when you hike, you need to go out and experience a more rugged terrain, exert more effort (uphills/downhills, rocks, dirt, gravel etc.) The Carpenteria Bluff Nature Preserve is flat , paved and dirt combination and can be accessed from different trailheads like the Tarpit Park. There's so much to see like wildlife, flowers and views are amazing. There are many trail loops that people can go on for walking or running and these are all family friendly. There's a railroad track so be careful when crossing. The bluffs also leads you to the Seal Sanctuary. Many people will be there so maintain social distance and keep your masks on. There are days when you don't see the seals. That's ok. there are others things to do. Go down to the beach and take a stroll! I can't say enough about Carpinteria bluffs , the experience was one of the most memorable.
This is a wonderful easy coastal walk for the entire family. You have great ocean views, the cool breeze makes it manageable even when walking at noon and you get to see a bit of nature with the lizards and birds. The seals were not there at the seal sanctuary but I don't really care for them; once you have witnessed how annoying they are at Monterey's wharf then you will understand. I didn't realize that you get to see the tar pit beach from the bluffs trail. So we didn't have to actually try and drive to it. We didn't walk the entire length of it, maybe 1 mile down and back until we were ready to hit the beach but I did see some people walk it from the trail head to Carpinteria State Beach to avoid that $10 parking fee.
Solid family friendly trails that leads to a natural tar pit beach. We wanted to stretch our legs before the long drive back down to San Diego. The Carpinteria Bluffs are right off the 101 and there's a reasonably sized dirt parking lot. The path along the bluffs is well traveled with several opportunities to cross train tracks and get right to the edge. From the dirt parking lot we went RIGHT (North) and we eventually were forced to cross train tracks. That's where the small path is located that takes you down to the beach. Much of the path that goes down to the beach is made from tar and looks like molten lava. If you're lucky it's low tide as you'll be able to climb around the tide-pools and see marine life. There's also sea glass here too, but alas also sticky tar. When we first walked along the rocks we noticed the distinct smell and saw all the sticky tar of the rocks and pools of rainbow oil floating in the water ( see picture). I totally thought this was the remnants from a major oil spill but I later found out it's actually a natural tar pit ( Like the one in La Brea). Apparently there's a beach farther north called Tar Pt Beach but it's past the seal sanctuary. - It's a good family friendly diversion from a long drive.. - There's also a seal rookery in this same area. Check the yelp page for exact directions.
I walk the Carpinteria bluffs almost every day! It is such a great spot. Very unspoiled with miles of trails. It is never too crowded. I try and pick a new route every day to get different views. You can see snakes, but they are not poisonous. They look like rattle snakes but they are actually gopher snakes. Gross, but not dangerous. I recommend parking at Viola Fields for a safe place to park and a public restroom.
I'm sitting here with my dog on a beautiful day. It is so beautiful here and there's a hiking trail that brings you out alongside the ocean. You must keep your dog on a leash but they are very dog friendly and provide poop bags along your walk. A beautiful place to take pictures.
Nice little hike. After a few minutes of hiking, you will cross path with an Amtrak train track which is also a great spot to take pictures at. The train does go on this track so be careful. Free parking. No public bathrooms. A bunch of seals
My daughters and I went for a walk here to see the seals. We followed the driving directions from Yelp. There are clean restrooms at this parking lot. It was a nice walk to the seal sanctuary.
This is a beautiful hike that leads down to the bluffs and tidal pools. When the tide is out, it exposes small tidal pools and rocks that are covered in algae. There isn't much sealife but the algae on the rocks look very pretty in pictures. If your lucky, you may find some small sea creatures here and there. Just be careful where you step. Yelp 100 Challenge (31 out of 100)
1 year ago
52 acres of open space. It's between freeway 101 and the Pacific Ocean. It has fields of wildflowers and native plants, eucalyptus grove of trees, walking paths that connect to the Carpinteria Bluffs Trail, and access to a low tide beach and seal rookery. Since the preserve is on a cliff, the sunsets are gorgeous. Catch the sun as it dips slowly into the ocean horizon. The colors melting into the ocean. Perfection. The access and parking to the preserve is free. FREE! You gotta luv that. Since the preserve is on a bluff, the beach is elevated below. So accessing the beach requires some trekking skills. Plus there are active live train tracks between the beach and preserve. Trains often run through. Always have your wits about you when you're near train tracks. And keep a considerable distance from the moving train. Next to the bluffs are ball fields with actual real turf. There are public restrooms there. I can't offer any additional info on those, I didn't use them. Both the preserve and ball fields have their own parking lots. Also I want to acknowledge the citizens of Carpentaria for fighting off land developers to keep this land undeveloped and forming a land trust to permanently safeguard it. read more
Lovely dog friendly trail next to the beach. Pretty flat so easy for most people on a dirt path. Views of the ocean too or you can walk down to it in certain spots (if you are ok with a sorta steep hill). Saw plenty of people biking on the trail too as it's pretty wide in spots. Weather was nice and cool so perfect to take your dog for exercise and enjoy the views. We parked in the free lot and walked North almost to Carp State Beach before turning back -- so a good 2 miles maybe. Drove down to Rincon Point Beach afterwards to take our dog to the beach there for a run. read more
This is a place where you can get awesome views of the ocean without much effort. I would characterize it as a stroll, but note that the path is dirt and uneven at some points. Overall, it's fairly flat, although you do cross an actively used train track at one point. Just look both ways! You can access the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary, the Tar Pits, and Carpinteria State Beach from here, although it might be a longer walk. I parked in a dirt lot. It felt pretty safe as I saw other families also out on the hike. read more
I just learned about Carpinteria Bluffs a few weeks ago, and last weekend I decided to check it out. It's really easy to find, just go west on Bailard until it ends in the parking lot. There's a sign at the entrance, and a really easy dirt path that goes through trees and shrubs, and along the train tracks. I spotted many birds I don't usually see in Ventura .. that was a treat. There's also a seal sanctuary to one side, & I recommend taking a peek at those cuties for sure. Views of the ocean here are gorgeous. You can cross the tracks for better up close views. When I went it was a bit busy, so I'd recommend going during the week, earlier in the day if possible. No need for a pack or water, it's a very easy stroll, mainly giving you fantastic ocean views. read more
2 years ago
Absolutely stunning! Wild flowers were abound in full bloom!!! It's such a beautiful place to meander around for a stroll. Excellent photo ops! The ocean views are quite striking! Weather was perfect! Please note the train tracks are to the left of the preserve. read more
Nice casual hike along the bluffs. We did about 3 miles on this trail and it has great views of the oceans and you can even see the seals down on the beach when in the right season. You cannot however get close to them as it is a protected area. There is usually someone there guarding and there is also someone on the bluff trails that you can talk to about the seals. They are volunteers who are knowledgeable in the area. You can walk on the beach at some point. There are stair leading down and you can see some cool sea animals on the rocks. It is best not to disturb them and only look. This trail also runs along the an active train track so be careful about that as well. There were a few people riding their bikes on the trail also. read more
5 years ago
Seals, wildflowers, and ocean bluffs! Good god, this was a lovely place to walk around. I agree with other yelpers that "hike" may not be the best term. It's more a gorgeous place to walk your dog, run, play on the beach, etc. That said, I managed to walk over 3 miles, so it wasn't nothing! How was the seal experience? Really nice! You can stand on a bluff and watch them harrump around- getting comfy and sunbathing. You're definitely not close, but I didn't feel like I was missing anything without binoculars. Is there really a train running through it? Yup! An Amtrak comes by regularly. It honks and I thought was very charming. But, you know, use your best judgement and monitor your kids. How's the beach? Soft, glittering sand and plenty of surfers, who were fun to watch. There are camp grounds along the beach and happy-looking folk playing in the sand or chilling next to their RVs. Any highlights? I loved sitting on the bluffs amidst the beach succulents and watching the waves and horizon. Very relaxing and healing. read more
6 years ago
Staying in Carpinteria for a few days and looking for some places to go to for walks and hikes. This place came up on yelp so we thought to go see it as it was of very close proximity and walking distance from where we are staying at. What a beautiful place it is. People complain in the reviews that it is not a real hiking spot. People should learn the difference between hiking and walking. Walking constitutes more of a simple and easier surfaces like the flat that you experience going to the bluffs. While when you hike, you need to go out and experience a more rugged terrain, exert more effort (uphills/downhills, rocks, dirt, gravel etc.) The Carpenteria Bluff Nature Preserve is flat , paved and dirt combination and can be accessed from different trailheads like the Tarpit Park. There's so much to see like wildlife, flowers and views are amazing. There are many trail loops that people can go on for walking or running and these are all family friendly. There's a railroad track so be careful when crossing. The bluffs also leads you to the Seal Sanctuary. Many people will be there so maintain social distance and keep your masks on. There are days when you don't see the seals. That's ok. there are others things to do. Go down to the beach and take a stroll! I can't say enough about Carpinteria bluffs , the experience was one of the most memorable. read more
This is a wonderful easy coastal walk for the entire family. You have great ocean views, the cool breeze makes it manageable even when walking at noon and you get to see a bit of nature with the lizards and birds. The seals were not there at the seal sanctuary but I don't really care for them; once you have witnessed how annoying they are at Monterey's wharf then you will understand. I didn't realize that you get to see the tar pit beach from the bluffs trail. So we didn't have to actually try and drive to it. We didn't walk the entire length of it, maybe 1 mile down and back until we were ready to hit the beach but I did see some people walk it from the trail head to Carpinteria State Beach to avoid that $10 parking fee. read more
Solid family friendly trails that leads to a natural tar pit beach. We wanted to stretch our legs before the long drive back down to San Diego. The Carpinteria Bluffs are right off the 101 and there's a reasonably sized dirt parking lot. The path along the bluffs is well traveled with several opportunities to cross train tracks and get right to the edge. From the dirt parking lot we went RIGHT (North) and we eventually were forced to cross train tracks. That's where the small path is located that takes you down to the beach. Much of the path that goes down to the beach is made from tar and looks like molten lava. If you're lucky it's low tide as you'll be able to climb around the tide-pools and see marine life. There's also sea glass here too, but alas also sticky tar. When we first walked along the rocks we noticed the distinct smell and saw all the sticky tar of the rocks and pools of rainbow oil floating in the water ( see picture). I totally thought this was the remnants from a major oil spill but I later found out it's actually a natural tar pit ( Like the one in La Brea). Apparently there's a beach farther north called Tar Pt Beach but it's past the seal sanctuary. - It's a good family friendly diversion from a long drive.. - There's also a seal rookery in this same area. Check the yelp page for exact directions. read more
I walk the Carpinteria bluffs almost every day! It is such a great spot. Very unspoiled with miles of trails. It is never too crowded. I try and pick a new route every day to get different views. You can see snakes, but they are not poisonous. They look like rattle snakes but they are actually gopher snakes. Gross, but not dangerous. I recommend parking at Viola Fields for a safe place to park and a public restroom. read more
I'm sitting here with my dog on a beautiful day. It is so beautiful here and there's a hiking trail that brings you out alongside the ocean. You must keep your dog on a leash but they are very dog friendly and provide poop bags along your walk. A beautiful place to take pictures. read more
Nice little hike. After a few minutes of hiking, you will cross path with an Amtrak train track which is also a great spot to take pictures at. The train does go on this track so be careful. Free parking. No public bathrooms. A bunch of seals read more
6 years ago
My daughters and I went for a walk here to see the seals. We followed the driving directions from Yelp. There are clean restrooms at this parking lot. It was a nice walk to the seal sanctuary. read more
This is a beautiful hike that leads down to the bluffs and tidal pools. When the tide is out, it exposes small tidal pools and rocks that are covered in algae. There isn't much sealife but the algae on the rocks look very pretty in pictures. If your lucky, you may find some small sea creatures here and there. Just be careful where you step. Yelp 100 Challenge (31 out of 100) read more
6 years ago
I don't know if a lot of people use yelp to find hikes and beaches but, it lead me to find Carpinteria Bluffs. It's an easy couple mile hike on the coastal cliffs, and there is easy access to get to the beach. I went on a Monday, but it was really quiet and not crowded at all. There was free parking at the trailhead till the sun goes down, and dogs are allowed with a leash. The only reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 is because I was a little bummed I didn't see any seals near the seal sanctuary- maybe they aren't around during this time of year. Regardless, this is my new favorite beach. read more
9 years ago
What a beautiful find in the low key beach town of Carpinteria. Parking is free and ample with a sign showing a map of the trails before you embark on your coast side walk. I found myself on a flat walk along the bluffs with an array of colorful wildflowers this past April. Wonderful bird watching opportunities abound but the main attraction for me, that day, was a walk to the seal sanctuary. From the parking lot, head straight towards the water and then to the right where you cross over the railroad tracks and then eventually see the signage for the harbor seal sanctuary area. During certain times of the year the path down to that beach is closed but you can bring some binoculars and watch the mamas and babies from up above. There are other paths that you can walk down to the explore other areas of the beach below, if you're so inclined. Between long walks along the bluff trail, paths down to the sand, tide pools and the Seal Sanctuary, you can spend the better part of a day here. Friendly locals seem to use these trails and I am so happy to have found yet another gorgeous area to visit while around the Santa Barbara coast. read more
6 years ago
This place was beautiful to venture during a quick stop on our way to SB. Nice walk through nature. Lots of trees. Beautiful beach. Perfect spot to see the . read more
7 years ago
A beautiful walking trail in Carpinteria. Really peaceful and calm. Take the trail to overlook the Seal Sanctuary for some fun seal watching. We had a lovely afternoon walk. read more
12 years ago
One of the better places with a view that I've visited while I was here in Santa Barbara. Walk through here on the way to the Seal Sanctuary and you can see some pretty nice views. There's a train track, so it's a perfect place to capture some nice photos. Definitely a huge plus since one of the main points of my trip was to take some stunning photos. read more
One of my favorite coastal walks, with wildflowers in the spring, birds, ocean and mountain views, wide well-maintained trails. The trail connects onto Carpinteria State Beach, on one end and back to Rincon Point the other direction. Peaceful wanderings with the added bonus of harbor seal viewing at the refuge, with pupping going on mid-January to March. Yes, there is an oil company parking lot and pier in the middle of all this, but the trail skirts around it. and the island views are wonderful. Ample parking at the end of Bailard Rd. read more
I got up early morning wanting to fill my soul with the sights, smells, and sounds of nature--away from all the Memorial Day madness. So, I made my way to the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve. I checked out the area the day before since I knew this place could be easily missed. It's along the quiet section of Carpinteria Ave, where Bailard ends. It's really close to the 101 freeway. It has a modest medium sized dirt parking lot. What's nice is that once you're there, it's easy to forget that a freeway is close by. Actually, you can't even see it once in the park. I conveniently found parking in the dirt lot. Since I got there early, I had no problem finding a space. There are several dirt trails that meander throughout the preserve. There is tall foliage everywhere. Also, a little off to the right, there are plenty of eucalyptus trees that provide shade. It's all very nice. Plus, there are the sounds of birds such as the California towhee, the spotted towhee, as well as song sparrows singing their songs. Going further out, closer to the bluffs, you will find the AmTrak train tracks. Just on the other side of the tracks, there are several spots where a person can go down to the beach. If doing this, be careful for there are several naturally occurring tar pits! Very cool. :) It's a lovely area for a morning stroll or even an early evening stroll. If there are people around, they're mostly locals. It's good to know that I have discovered yet, another lovely area to enjoy nature. :) read more
Brought the dogs here on a Friday afternoon in November. Weather was perfect, not too hot not too cold. It's a good little place for a hike with views. Cross the tracks, and head down the bluffs onto the shore for a stroll along the beach. That part is closed starting December 1st to end of May for the Sea Lion mating season. It's a good place to let the dogs run free and play in the water. The waves aren't too crazy. It wasn't crowded, and the few people we meandered by were friendly. read more
8 years ago
12 years ago
13 years ago
The Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve comes complete with astonishing panoramic views. Through December to March, you can spy on seals and sea lions at the seal rookery below the bluffs. It's a great place to bird watch, too! Once the sun rises on the bluffs, this place resonates peace and beauty until the sun goes down. Ample parking. Highly recommended. read more
9 years ago
This is a nice hike, I"m not sure exactly where the trail gears off too the only sign of it is at the entrance. I crossed the tracks and headed to the beach, they have a sign posted it's where the sea lions gather between December and May and they close the beach access off between those months. You would be able to see the sea lions from the cliff with their pups. The day I went hiking we just walked along the ocean as the little ones gathered their shells and we walked from one end to the only other way out and hiked back along the bluff from the parking lot (no sign posted) the trail is surrounded by chrub. It eventually goes along side a rail road track and we saw the train twice while hiking. When we came back I saw people walking on the other side of the train track in a field which I thought was private property but I"m guessing where the trail head actually is. Either way, both sides of the track is a nice hike. It was empty when we went exploring the area. Saw some people hang gliding above us. I loved the quietness and I only saw one jogger when I got to the train area. The beach access itself is empty just a few joggers and at the parking lot entrance at the far end of the beach is where some people gathered but it's a nice quiet beach area over all. Total distance we did was 6-7 miles. read more
13 years ago
10 years ago
More info about Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve
5905 Carpinteria Ave
Carpinteria, CA 93013
Directions
(805) 684-5405
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