Our kids' school does an annual family camp at El Capitan Canyon, and we went for the first time this year with our two boys, who are in kindergarten and pre-school. I was excited for this weekend, but mildly trepidatious about the camping component. I didn't grow up camping, and the last time I spent a full day away from a private bathroom was probably in college. Turns out El Capitan Canyon is more of a woodsy hotel than a campsite, at least if you book a cabin. We got the best of every world on this trip: time with friends in nature and a cozy room to sleep in, complete with beds and a full bathroom. The school rented out the whole property for two nights, and we reserved our cabin through an intense process that involved logging in at the exact minute the system allowed, like we were buying Taylor Swift tickets. I don't think El Capitan Canyon is otherwise hard to book, though. The place is very well suited to group getaways with small children. It has everything you need for a weekend of outdoor fun, and there's little danger your kids will wander off the property. We got a cabin in the central village area, adjacent to the large green where we had most of our social gatherings. We were next to three other families from the kindergarten class and our cluster served as hosts for the two giant group dinners. We brought in caterers one night, which we had to get approved through El Capitan Canyon, and rented grills to barbecue the second night. I say dinners, but the children were mostly too busy playing to sit down and eat for very long. These were more like hours-long parties where all the parents got to hang out while the kids ran around, entertaining themselves and each other in the open air. We had cabin 159, and it was quite nice, with a queen bed and two twins up a ladder in a little loft. There was a small kitchenette and a clean bathroom. Not fancy, but not camping, or even glamping. The one meal we were on our own for, we went down to the Canyon Market and bought a hot lunch. The rooms did come with picnic tables, outdoor chairs, and fire pits, which we put to good use. Basically the fun parts of camping without the discomfort. Other key amenities included a pool and a playground. We also enjoyed a short hike to see some llamas, which we were able to do with our three-year-old. My kids weren't interested in the field games this year, but the little one had a blast at the all-school dance party, where dozens of children got down to KPop Demon Hunters on a covered wooden dance floor. They both loved the piñata, the s'mores, and the general flow of kid-oriented activities and sweet treats. I gather that there's a range of accommodations available at El Capitan Canyon, and we probably lucked into a desirable cabin. I peeked into another family's yurt and it was warmer and prettier than I'd imagined, but it didn't have its own bathroom. There are also a lot of critters on the property, like the family of raccoons we watched climb up and down a tree late at night. This is charming--I'd never seen a woodpecker before, but knew immediately what it was, as it was actively pecking wood--unless you have a rodent in your walls. One of our friends ended up moving to the Residence Inn in Goleta the second night because she couldn't afford to lose another night of sleep. If all goes according to plan, this was our first of ten family camp weekends at El Capitan Canyon. I'm sure each year will be different, but I expect to relish every one of them. I think we'll make memories here that we'll treasure our whole lives. read more

We've been here already for two summers and each one we leave more in love with this spot. It is a great home away from home but still feels like you are way up in the mountains. The kids love the petting zoo that was open during a certain day during our stay. It was peak summer so there was so much to do, live entertainment, and we brought our own food to cook but they have a wide selection of breakfast, lunch and dinner if you wanna grab a bite. The little restaurant also has all your needs if you forgot to pack anything from Tylenol, to wine, to souvenirs. The pool is our favorite and although there was a water leak and we couldn't use it for a few hours the beach is close by or you can walk a few minutes to the next camping spot and their pool was also there to keep everyone happy. We love it here and have made the best memories. read more

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I had a really disappointing experience just trying to book over the phone. The woman who answered, Jenna, was shockingly rude from the start. She had a dismissive tone and a clear attitude, as if my call was an inconvenience. When I told her that her behavior was the reason I would be booking somewhere else, she didn't care at all. She flat-out said I couldn't speak to a manager and that she was the only person I would be dealing with. That kind of response is unbelievable in any customer service situation. I followed up by emailing a complaint, and no one ever responded. That silence speaks volumes. This business does not seem to prioritize customer service at all. I've actually been a repeat customer for years, and while service has been questionable before, this experience pushed it over the edge. I don't see myself returning. Basic courtesy costs nothing. If this is how potential customers are treated before they even book, I can't imagine how issues would be handled after payment. I chose to take my business elsewhere, and I'd recommend others do the same. read more

We stayed in a bunk bed cabin which included 2 bunk beds (4 twin mattresses made with sheets/duvet) and a loft with 2 twin bunks made with fitted sheet, but top sheet, blanket, and pillow were separate in a plastic pouch. The bathroom came with 1 bar of soap, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner. No hair dryer. Shower spigot is scaly-- water shoots in all directions. Water pressure in sink and shower were fine. Bathroom door doesn't lock. The kitchenette came with a sponge, dish soup, a microwave, and mini fridge. Mini fridge worked great. No buttons on the microwave worked except the start/+30 second, so you had to cook in 30 second intervals. Upon arriving at the cabin you could tell it was worn. Large sections of wood missing from the door, warping in the wood, door knob that was installed wrong and lower lock that didn't lock, dead bolt worked, windows with locks that are broken, etc. However, it was CLEAN. So, yes, there was lots of wear and tear on these 25 year old cabins, but the place was clean which was a relief. There were plenty of power outlets for charging phones and small devices. The grounds are lovely, the staff is great, they've got a play ground, open space for running and playing, fire pits, an outdoor HEATED pool, petting zoo, hiking trails, little market/gift shop, small restaurant, ample parking, etc. Pool water looked clean but you can see the dirt from people's feet and probably wind blowing dirt in that settled at the bottom. Cabins were very close to each other... like 15 feet apart. So the cumulative smoke from each persons campfire was overwhelming. We had to sleep with our windows closed due to the smoke which took away from the cool mountain/beach air we hoped to have at night. Why 3 stars? I can deal with everything mentioned above and did so with enjoyment, but the price and advertising say this is GLAMPING. It is not. It is camping in cabins with some modern conveniences. This is not a resort and it's not glamorous. It is camping, and if you like camping closely to other families, you will like this place! read more

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Second visit and my 11 year-old-gamer- daughter already asked when we are going again! This visit stayed at CREEKSIDE CANYON QUEEN #159 Make the most of your trip and use their many: -beautiful trails ; llama, overlook trail but don't forget your water and charge your phone in case you stay out later than expected. -visit the farm Saturday 10am-12pm) -special events such as Thanksgiving and Easter (check website) -lawn games out by the market -canyon market with outside/ inside seating -bike/helmet rentals (bring ID) -pool (take your blue towels with you!) -community showers and bathrooms found in every meadow section for those in yurts (no bathroom) but available for all! Love how clean everything is. Also how easy it is to EAT, NAP, PLAY and REPEAT! The kids loved it. Lots of bonding time for everyone. Volleyball on the grass in front of the cabin was also fun. I love how much of nature you are able to enjoy but can them drive 15-20 mins to find local restaurant gems. With the money we saved by staying in a smaller room we indulged by eating locally but also ate at the Canyon Market which serves fresh pizza, tacos, breakfast, bbq kits, and sandwiches. Their breakfast tri tip hash with 2 eggs was delicious! $22 but quality and convenient. It's really fresh. The mini fridge was great to hold our juices, milk, prepackaged jello, whipped cream, and canned cold coffees. Microwave and electric kettle made cup of noodles/ramen and microwaveable Mac and cheese an easy quick meal. Don't forgot your dishware and utensils (disposable forks, spoons and knives found at the canyon market outside for everyone.) Sponge, paper towel and dish soap included in room along with coffee that is steeped like tea from a local company and was actually very good! Cars are parked in the lot after you've unloaded but it was a quick 5 min walk from the cabin. I kept the stroller in the car to save space but didn't use it for my 2.5 year old. Don't forget to check the weather before you leave, it rained heavily during our 3 night stay. We brought our umbrellas, hiking boots, bug spray, thick water proof jacket, hot hands hand warmers which I placed everywhere since my hands and bottom can get very cold. Bbq pit, wooden bench and two lawn chairs included. I also brought a lightweight picnic blanket that was nice to lay on at night to stargaze. I saw the pro campers bring canopies and additional lawn chairs. Next time I am planning on getting binoculars for bird watching. Thank you to staff who work so diligently to keep the grounds clean and beautiful. read more

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This review is for my first experience at El Capitan Canyon. When reading this review, please consider these facts: I rarely do outdoor activities, last time I went camping probably around 22 years ago, and that now I have 3 children. I had booked reservation here, in the past, and cancelled it due to my fear of able to manage my kids in outdoor setting. But at the same time, I do want them to experience outdoor things with me, other than sleep aways summer camps. So finally I booked again for my son's 12th birthday. Our checked in experience was great. The staff was friendly and my kids got a mini bag and they could choose whatever stickers they want. Then someone drove in front of our car to guide us to our Yurt (we checked in at 9 PM). it was pitch black, and honestly I was pretty scared. But we got into our yurt safely. And this is my mistake, I did not check carefully when booking online, that the Yurt will share common bathroom, in which, I had to walk there, to use the facilities. It wasn't a long walk, but for someone that rarely went outside, my back problem, it was a factor that definitely I have to consider. So if I wanted to use the restroom at 2 AM I have to walk with a flashlight in a cold night. The positive side was the bathroom was clean and every bathroom stall had shampoo & soap. The next day was better. Everything was bright, and the kids were happy that they could rent a bike and helmet (free of charge, they just will hold on to your ID). Another positive thing was that they had a clear bike pathways for the kids, so my kids enjoyed that very much. The breakfast food were very good. Everything that we ordered exceeding expectations. Price wise, it was average to highly priced, but for the taste and quality, was worth it. They also offer a kit to bbq outside our Yurt (every Yurt had fire pit) I forgot how much exactly, but I ordered meal for two , for approx $160 and it was plenty for all of us. We still had some leftovers. these kits were good in value, it came with the fire starter, logs, the main food, two side dishes (we chose salad and beans), utensils (including carving knife etc), marshmallows, corn on the cobs, garlic bread, 2 drinks and it was all inside an efficient food utility bag. We also added the salmon. One thing though, it was about a 30-40 min walk one way, from my Yurt to the market, and we had to pick it up ourselves. We had to order online, but we need to pick it up. They did not have a delivery service. I understand this was supposed to provide a nice place to sleep after a whole day outdoor activities, hiking, etc. I just feel it would be great if I could added a delivery to it considering the price tags, my back pain, cold weather, and for the sake of convenience. Next time, I should have checked that first, before making the order online. The pool was heated to 80 degrees, but it still too cold for me. The kids and other kids were swimming though. The park was right outside our Yurt and it was convenient for the kids to just go out and play. You need to bring your own towel for the pool. We went to see the Alpacas, Llamas, goats, sheeps, and donkeys. It was a short, but steep hike to get there. After we got to the top, we still had to walk about 10 min walk. It was a beautiful walk. I called the front desk couple times. Sometimes someone will pick up, sometimes not. I ended up unable to ask for more towels for our second day. We spent two nights here. It was an experience. I would definitely get the cabin with private bathroom next time, and that would probably give me a more comfortable experience. read more

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The best family experience ever!! Cabin, campfire, cooking outdoors, beach hike, finding treasures, visiting the farm and animals. Love this place read more

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Awesome glamping experience. This is our 4th visit & always enjoy our time. The cabins are nicely maintained along with activities. Walking distance to beach. The bbque pit is great for s'mores & making meals. We will definitely return. read more

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We stayed at El Capitan Canyon for two nights at Canyon Loft Cabin. 1. Cabin smelled gas. It was unpleasant and not safe. 2. Broken bedroom blinds. 3. Bathroom is stink and old. 4. Overall needed improvements. 5. Overpriced for all the issues. Overrated on their website. Do not trust their reviews. read more

El Capitan Canyon - Bedroom window blinds - Hotels Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

El Capitan was an awesome experience! My kids and I really enjoyed the Glamping ambiance! From the live music nights, the playground and pool, the beach, and lama farm! We can't wait to go back and invite more family and friends. Love how you can have multiple families rent cabins so close together. Went with my best friend and her family and we were neighbors. We were able to cook are meals together and enjoy meals outdoors. read more

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Loud feral children and obnoxious indulgent adults. Do not come here to relax or enjoy nature. So loud - all the time. Really disappointing experience. Probably great for large groups with small children. read more

Everything needs improvement. DO NOT STAY NEAR THE POOL! The yurt was beautiful. It is Extremely pricey to not have any relaxation considering the environment. They charge extra for everything, classes, ect. They had an entire kids group staying at location near our yurt. Not relaxing & Not peaceful. Went for our 10 year anniversary & mother day weekend. Talked to the staff at checkout & they didn't even apologize. read more

What a lovely weekend getaway! Stayed in a creekside king cabin. Had all the basics you need. Loved having a gas fireplace inside. Small kitchenette is completely unstocked, so bring EVERYTHING you might need if you are planning to cook/prepare food. Huge bathtub! Wifi worked fine. Lots of seating outside, including 2 directors chairs (great to sit by the fire), a 2 person bench on the porch & a picnic table by the fire pit. We spent a lot of time right pursue our cabin enjoying the sounds & sights of nature. Having stayed at other glamping places like Costanoa, the store & other activities/amenities were a bit lacking for this price point. Did some hiking on their private trails, they were not marked or maintained, so it was... an adventure. read more

They are owned by Sun Outdoors. Bottom Line Up Front- This place is very nice, high priced, and the restrooms are clean. Positives- The staff provides reliable information including the hiking trails (they steer you to the hikers), it is an easy 10-15 minute walking distance to the ocean and hiking trails, and there is a deli that makes a pretty decent pizza. Neutral- The trails that are dirt roads that have basically no vehicle traffic. The Bill Wallace Trail has some posts though it is continuous only because of parking lots. The East Loop Trail has no markings but is easy to follow if you have experience hiking in such an area and the view at the large picnic table is beautiful. The Overlook Trail is overgrown and is suitable for deer so if you want to pick up ticks go for it. The Llama Trail is an easy excursion and is marked. Negatives- We asked what was on the vegetable pizza and another staff member had to push her to go find out. The pizza has real stringy cheese and good dough but burned toppings, someone should have told us. We found out after we got back to our RV. The beer is double what you'd pay in a grocery store. There are so many flies around the deli at the outside picnic tables that most people take the food back to their rooms. read more

I paid $428 for a cabin on a Wednesday night to basically enjoy nature in a 1-star room. Wait, I couldn't enjoy nature, becasue I was harassed by 3 skunks that kept circling around trying to steal food. I wasn't sure how to deter them without getting sprayed. At night, there was scratching noises from the walls and the roof. This place is like paying a huge surcharge just to be in nature when you're already in beautiful Santa Barbara and Santa Ynes region. A $35 campsite will be the same. I think up to $165/night would be fair for the experience. read more

This was our second stay at El Capitan Canyon, and our first stay post baby. We had a wonderful time, the location is perfect for a trip with kids. The pool & beach provided endless entertainment and we especially loved the llama and goat farm. The market had everything we forgot to pack, and the firewood delivery was really convenient. The staff were lovely and very accommodating in helping us stay close to our friends cabin, even though we rented different cabin styles. We really enjoyed our time and hope to make it a yearly visit. read more

El Capitan Canyon - Path to the llama farm - Hotels Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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We LOVE coming here! The cabins are awesome as are the entire El Cap grounds. Both El Cap and Refugio beaches are close by and super easy to get to. The goats and llamas are fun to visit as well! We will be back again next summer read more

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Loved this campground. We are normally a family of tent camping and spontaneous adventure . This time we chose to stay in a Yurt. Yet another adventure to add to the bucket list. It was super cool. Staff was amazing. There was multiple things to do that catered to everyone in our family. From hikes to farm animals, to a heated pool, llamas, campfires , music , bikes available to ride , a playground and a beach nearby. we highly recommend! Super peaceful and added some zen and memories to the books. read more

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The nature is absolutely stunning BUT when you spend $1K over two nights you expect something more. This place advertises as family friendly/kids friendly resort. When we checked in the guy who escorted us to our cabin was not nice or welcoming at all (( when I asked him about the kids actives he referred me to look at the white envelope they gave us which didn't contain anything other than food menu. The website advertises activities that are not actually happening: star gazing, wine tasting, movie night. Star gazing never happened. Wine tasting never happened. Movie night was in Santa Barbara, an hour of driving away. If you expect your kids to be entertained do NOT come here. They don't provide anything other than outdated cabin with mice crawling everywhere. You have to bring your food, your drinks, your bikes, your own ice, your firewood, your own entertainment. The yoga classes are $75 per person. I'm sorry but I won't pay that much in the city. If you pose as a family friendly resort you should be one. read more

My family and I enjoyed our stay at the El Capitan Canyon Resort. We stayed in the Corral Loft cabin which was located about a 10 min walk from the central part of the resort. I preferred this since it allowed us to be in a quieter area of the resort. If you are traveling with kids make sure to checkout the trail that leads to a llama farm, it's a fun excursion. Overall we enjoyed our stay. read more

My family and I came to el Capitan Canyon last weekend we rented was supposed to be the nicest cabin, the safari cabin. Upon arrival I was hit with a strong smell of animal urine. I open the doors and tried to ignore it later I found mouse droppings in the living room, then when we went to sleep, we heard squeaking and mice crawling in the walls, in the morning I called and they sent housekeeping to clean up the mice droppings by night, The mice were so loud, and there was more droppings after the cleaning we decided to leave early because it felt like a health hazard to be in the cabin, I called the front desk to let them now, and asked to have a manager call me back, I have been called three more times over the course of two days ended up getting told my money would be fully refunded, but the manager never called me back. the conditions of the cabin beyond the mice infestation was not good. Blinds were falling apart Floors were warped. There was several holes in which critters could get in. The beds were extremely uncomfortable. The linens were not nice considering for the weekend it was a price of $3000. I would expect cleanliness at the very least. I would also expect a manager to call me to at least discuss the situation and how my trip was ruined. Maybe offer an apology. I left a day early with very disappointed children and some anxiety for health concerns due to breathing in mice urine and poop. There's no way that this was a new problem considering the extent of the infestation so it's my belief that management knew about it and rented the cabin anyway. read more

This is honestly such a beautiful place. How did I not know about this place when I was in college? Oh right, I was busy living the IV life. We decided to stay here during our weekend stay in SB. It's located about 15 mins away from Goleta and about 30 mins from downtown SB. It's very nice and secluded. We decided to get the Canyon Loft, which sleeps 5 and there's a little kitchenette. When you check in, they have someone to guide you to your cabin. It's confusing at first but you get used to it. Parking is a walk away, but not too bad. The cabin is very clean and you have a picnic table and fire pit outside. There weren't a lot of people around us, which was nice since there's COVID-19. It makes practicing social distancing so much easier. I guess I would call this glamping. You get the benefits of camping AND your very own bathroom, bed, and heater. There's plenty of things to do, like visiting the llamas. I wish we were able to get bikes to go to the beach, but we'll go next time. Side note: there's a marketplace in the front that was the all the essentials. You can also call the front desk to have firewood and starters delivered to your cabin! read more

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Great location close to our home. The amenities were great and the place was nicely laid out and felt safe. All the staff members were friendly and welcoming and helpful. read more

My wife and I stayed here one night in February, 2025. Not a pleasant stay. The fire pit was full of beer cans and apparently moved toward the cabin next to our cabin. We left it where we found it. Burning our fire 5 feet from our neighbor's fire was not enjoyable. The place was 95% empty, so their was no reason we were crammed next to someone else. We later noticed there were many other same type cabins available in a much better area within the grounds. When we checked out, we told the person at the desk about all of this. The person at the desk retained the bill and told me the manager would call me back. I never received a call back as promised, or any credit on my bill. read more

Great family or couples place to go to. It's a lot bigger place than we realized. Each cabin has a picnic table and fire pit. I'd suggest bringing extra chairs if you want to sit by the fire at night. This time of year weather was perfect during the day. Bring mosquito spray. They do give you a mosquito Lantern. Cabins do not have air conditioning. The lower canyon by the market, checkin cabin has more of a breeze off the ocean but higher traffic area. The heavily shaded cabins are perfect. Fun activities on the weekends. The beach is not too far for walking and 5 min drive away. $10 admission for the beach. Lots of lawn and tables with small grills if you want to bbq out there. Staff was amazing and very helpful. There were larger groups that come together and would be fun. Saturday night they had a bbq you gave to order ahead of time and had a band. Lots of tables to sit and enjoy. If you don't want to cook the market had good easy food to get. read more

El Capitan Canyon - Map of resort - Hotels Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

I have visited this facility several times, once before and a few times after the pandemic and it seems that the grounds are under new ownership. Since COVID every time we have been here we have had a rude experience we've been here. This gentleman named Richard would walk around with the most disgusted look on his face glaring at our children playing and carrying around a negative and grouchy energy with him! The grounds and facility are amazing but overall the several rude encounters, at least once every time I've been here has really caused me to question if I will ever come back. There is another facility Ocean Mesa that does RV and tent camping that has great faculties and staff. I'm excited to give that spot more of a chance next vacation. read more

El Capitan Canyon - Hike guide for El Cap and Ocean Mesa Campground! - Hotels Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Zero Unfortunately these people deserve zero star Let me tell you what to expect: 1- rude personnel especially night shift we were hanging out with our friends next to fire place and music was very low received warning of being loud 2- rude discriminatory attitude is pretty normal at this location 3- no upgrade and renovation happened over years Its been my 3rd time at this place and for sure the last time read more

It pains me to write this. Our last stay here was amazing and filled with good memories. While the scenery and wildlife was still great, the cabins and the overall El Capitan experience was not. The prices doubled and there was literally no amenities other than the pool, no programs during the week, the cabins were bare-bring everything, watered down dish soap, and half empty toiletries. We won't return. Really loved the KOA in Ojai and Avila Beach and their cabin set ups and amenities. While El Capitan appears to be a "boutique" experience, it falls short. read more

Love this place. We try to camp here once a year. It's a beautiful place to bring families. We often walk to beach and enjoyed the star gazing. Can't wait to return. read more

Awesome camp location. Beautiful area next to the ocean. Easy to get to yet still feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Truly a gem. Everyone from gate check in, front desk agent, maintenance and market/delivery people were all friendly and knowledgeable. I always felt safe. The food from the market deli was so good! I had breakfast twice and lunch once and loved it. Will be back!! Thanks El Capitan Canyon!! read more

Run down but gorgeous setting! Some cabins are much better maintained than others. Overall too expensive for what it is.

We've been going to El Capitan every year since 2019, one for end of school group event and one for 4th July. Aside from paying ridiculous $459 /night for a wood cabin w bare bone amenity, I don't have much to complain as it's more for the kids then adults. To be fair the complaint below is not against the or the deliver crew the front or the dudes at the gat, .both of which are professional and pleasant. Since covid greedflation has deeply rooted itself into this property. The attitude and service from the front desk staff on the other hand have progressively degenerated over the last 3 years. Never mind that for almost $500 per night that you get essentially zero service but they don't even bother dropping off essentials like towels and tp. Both our friend next cabin and i had to call multiple times to get towels only to be met w attitude. My first call for clean towels came at 4pm after returning from hike. Woman at the front desk sounded irritated and responded "our staff is getting ready to go home!" I then told her drop off in the am would be fine and her attitude improved. Here it is at 10:30 am the next day, No towels. Placed another call and Ariana (?) at front desk answered the phone. I inquired again about the towels only to receive a lecture about how we are forbade to being their precious towels to the pool. Having a hotel you lecture and forbade customers about use of towels at their own pool is absolutely insane! Esp since this property uses the cheapest standard motel grade towels So thank you El Captain for your greed to vacuuming customers cash and offering only contemptuous attitude in return. And thank you for reminding us to take our annual $3000 spending on this property else where. We'll also be sure to suggest all of our friends and school board to take their business elsewhere. read more

This Resort stay was our first at this location. Pros: cruiser bikes available for check out, location- walk or ride to beach, plenty of hiking trails, cabin was cozy with heating, small kitchen, clean bathroom, fire pit and bench outside each cabin, heated pool on property.staff at front gate and at check in was friendly and helpful. K-cup style coffee maker, fridge/microwave in cabin. Cons: situational but during our trip the access to the state beach was closed due to a sink hole. We could still ride to Refugio state beach and watch sunset. It's a 2 mile or so ride/walk with gorgeous views( slightly hilly ride so some may need to walk the bike for uphill) Overall: I'd definitely stay here again read more

So glad I booked this back in March for beginning of summer! We got a 6 bunk cabin. Everything I must say was nice and clean! Staff was great. Mini fridge was a good size too! We checked in on a Monday, we were also able to check out the Lama and goat farm on Tuesday as well, site was nice and not packed at all! Weather was great, warm and not too hot. We were able to enjoy the pool, hike and enjoy the sun with my family! The market had a great menu, pizza and tri-tip sandwich was delicious. Even going during the week I was hesitate due to the weekends look like they have more activities but it was great! I will defiantly be back. This was much needed for us, thank you! read more

El Capitan Canyon - Hotels Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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We had a wedding for our daughter here with 100+ guests in attendance. From the moment we arrived we felt unwelcome. We had worked with this venue for over a year to plan things and were met with obstacles almost every step of the way. The General Manager, Richard Good, seemed to go out of his way to be rude to us as well as several guests. The wedding ceremony and reception was a success, just difficult behind the scenes to deal with this venue. read more

~General Store Only~ On the Ocean Mesa side of the campground is a very tiny general store. Not enough to get items for the camper. Amenities were great, such as pool, hot tub, bathrooms, and laundry provided by Ocean Mesa Campground. While out walking around. Discovered a walking trail that connected both Ocean Mesa and El Capitan. -1 Star for not allowing regular dogs onto the property. There's a cute bridge that you cross while heading towards the El Capitan general store, with no dogs allowed unless service dog. There are plenty of spots to eat, but I suggest one not directly under a tree, as a crow did their business while we tried to eat. A stage for a band. Another side of eating area with some backyard games. The general store had two different sections. One for merchandise and one for food. The merchandise section did not have an employee, though. On top of that, it is also a tiny kitchen! They were serving a tri tip sandwich, tacos, salads, and a few other items on their menu. With also drinks and snacks all around their register. There was a separate table attached to the general store, but it was blocked off. They gave you a buzzer so you could sit and relax first. We got tri tip sandwiches, one with seasoned fries with extra sauce, sweet potatoes fries, and another one with chips. There were chicken and carnita tacos ordered, and they gave us a handful of Cholula hotsauce packets. The Carnitas were a bit dry and had to go back to ask for Pico de Gallo. The tri tips were perfect. And we can't decide if the seasoned fries or sweet potato fries were better. It's definitely a cute store. read more

We stayed in a Creekside cabin and loved it. Know that there is no AC though! We asked to have cabins next to our relatives and they worked with us. Very quiet and relaxing, and so convenient to have the beach less than a mile away. read more

The resort at El Capitan Canyon is a cozy home away from home. They have a variety of cabins, yurts and tents. Staff is very friendly and helpful. We had a great time and our stay was relaxing. The property has a ranch with Goats, sheep and Lamas within a short hilly hike from the cabins. There are plenty of moderate hiking trails around the resort. There is one heated swimming pool centrally located within the resort. Our cabin had two bunk beds (4 beds) and a loft with 2 additional beds. The beds were firm but comfortable. Sheets were clean. The cabin felt spacious. The kitchenette in the cabin included a half size refrigerator, microwave and sink. Cabin also has a bathroom with a Toilet, shower and sink. The cabin had a fan, lights and heat. There was plenty of hot water for everyone to use. The windows welcome sunlight during the day and view of a starry sky at night. The cabin was clean and welcoming when we arrived. Bring your own utensils and cooking items. Soap and towels are provided. Amenities depend on the accommodation you choose. Outside our cabin we had a bench and a fire pit which was perfect for cooking all our meals (even when it rained). I don't believe any cabins or yurts allow or provide stoves to cook inside. Their website is informative and provides all the information on what to bring for the stay. There are other large bathroom and shower facilities on the property with lights, sinks, soap and hot water. I counted three, there maybe more. Parking is allowed in designated parking lots away from the cabin. That could be close or far depending on where your cabin is located. Car is allowed to the cabin to unload and load your items. Beach cruiser bikes are available for check out with your ID. During our visit we made good use of those bikes. They are well maintained and a great way to visit the nearby beaches. The market on the property is well stocked with food and supplies. They also prepare food to go or to eat at the benches located around the market. There is a stream that runs through the resort. It was rapidly flowing during our stay, the rain this year has been abundant. Fishing isn't allowed. El Capitan State beach is across the freeway from the property. It was closed for repairs during our stay but still accessible by bicycle. The CCC workers fixing the washed up road and trail were friendly. Refugió State Beach, which is about 3 miles from the resort is open and accessible by bicycle or vehicles. Resort is approximately 15 miles from Santa Barbara and 20 miles from Buelton. Probably 25 miles from Solvang. Great place to experience camping without the rough feeling of being outdoors. This may qualify as Glamping. read more

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The pizza was good, it was not great and not worth $38. It was lukewarm warm even though I ordered it for a specific time it was clearly made way ahead of time. read more

UPDATE the staff was very rude and did not seem to care about the rat poop only the cleaning crew actually did care and argue with the manger to clean it up but they said no read more

El Capitan Canyon - Rat poop in my room - Hotels Near Me - Santa Barbara, California