Such a hidden gem of a beach. We stumbled upon it after randomly getting off the freeway. Passing the beautiful beach houses , there's an open area to park by the railroad. Walking across the railroad, the beautiful beach is kept hidden and beautiful. It was nice to come relax in the sun and hit the waters for a bit. It is NOT hard to find, don't be mislead by these reviews. There's also a surf store, a restaurant, and other stores going more down the road! Nice area. read more

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Last month, on a weekday in the middle of summer, is when I dropped in to this beach known by several names... Santa Claus Beach (unofficial name) and Padaro Beach (offical name). It was so hectic to get to this beach due to all the road construction. And the beach was packed due to the various local children's summer camps and tourists. First, thing to note is the road construction. Possibly it's over by now. But when I visited, the road had no parking for the stretch right along the public access to the beach. It's free access and parking. The normal spots were taken by the construction crew and their equipment and materials. They were digging up the road. I saw a lot of folks parking in the road construction zone. The crew were calling tow trucks depending on where those cars were parked. Anyway, we parked really far away and hoofed it in while dodging dozers, street traffic, and construction crew. The access to the beach is limited to the open stretch where so happened the construction was occurring. Other access points are private property. Don't be tempted to cut through, it's illegal. Once you get to the public access area, you'll need to hike a wee bit of sandy elevation to cross the train tracks. Have your wits about while trekking near and on the tracks. Look both ways from afar and be ready to move to a safe distance if there is an incoming train. We ventured further to the far edges of the beach. The beach was clean. Sand was soft. Good vibes. Watch out at high tides if you venture to the far sides, the beach shrinks at high tide. And a rocky outcropping is beyond the sand. Plus there are no plumbed public restrooms, but I did see porta toilets. read more

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Walked up and down and up and down the road making myself look crazy, never found the fucking beach and was not about to trespass in someone's yard to get to the sand . Confusing and annoying but maybe I'm just not the brightest cookie read more

Is quiet and fairly empty beach. Such a great name for a street/beach. Parking is free and you cross a railroad to get to this beach. It was so windy I didn't really stay too long but the views itself were breathtaking. read more

Santa Claus Beach - View - Beaches Near Me - Carpinteria, California

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Can't believe how empty this beach is on a Saturday holiday weekend. Thanks Yelp! Super easy to access and if your kiddo is into trains, you might see a few pass by. I haven't been able to find a bathroom, but I am guess there are outhouses. read more

Santa Claus Beach - Surfliner!!!! - Beaches Near Me - Carpinteria, California

We ALL know where Santa resides during the cold winter months.. But where does he go after cozying up next to the fire place sippin on hot cocoa all winter long?? If you said Montego Bay, Jamaica... You're close! The jolly ol' Saint Nick actually heads to Carpinteria, CA and relaxes on his very own 'Santa Claus Beach'. Located in Santa Barbara County, this beach is a unique spot where locals and tourists alike come together to enjoy the very best of Southern California. What I love about this beach is the way you access it. In order to get onto the beach itself, you must cross over an unprotected rail road track that has actual Amtrak trains go by at various times of the day. My Recommendation: Sure, you can pack a picnic and enjoy the waves as you eat your peanut butter & jelly, but my suggestion and trust me, you will Thank Me Later is first finding a parking spot, then eating at Padaro Beach Grill (see my review of PBG) then making your way to Santa Claus beach which is literally right next door. Bring a book, bring your sunscreen & shades and prepare for a relaxing day at the beach. I will say that Parking can be a challenge especially on the weekends, so plan ahead and get there early. And remember, if you happen to see Santa chillen on the beach, remember to remind him you've been good this year and you can't wait to see what he leaves you under your tree. read more

Santa Claus Beach - Quick Train Track Photo Shoot! - Beaches Near Me - Carpinteria, California

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Came back here a year later on one of the busiest holiday weekends (Labor Day). We came on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday we arrived at noon and we had to park far down past the little strip of shops and restaurants. But the beach was actually not too crowded. We went back on Sunday at 11 and parking was much easier this time. So I do recommend if you are coming on a weekend to aim for 10-11 for best parking. Be careful about parking near the beginning parking with the first outhouse bathroom because when we left, we observed that people decided to park behind the cars that parked there first (perpendicular parking to the railroad track) which was blocking cars in front of them in. There was also a man there selling fresh tropical fruit cups that looked delicious. Such a beautiful day. There were a lot of people boogie boarding this day and luckily there is a Surf Shop a short walk down the beach where you can rent one for the day. Next time we are gonna rent them. The waves seemed perfect for boogie boarding We also saw dolphins both days we were there and yes, even 2 sharks on the second day. The sharks didn't seem to be remotely curious to the beach goers. They were just swimming a straight line south of the beach shore about 20-30 feet past most of the swimmers which was also on the same swimming route we saw the dolphins at. read more

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We are very fortunate to have access to the most beautiful places just off the side of the road, literally. Park your car along the street and make your way across the train tracks, careful look both ways. Once you cross the tracks, the beach is literally your oyster. During the winter, the low tides are the best to take long walks and enjoy the solace of barely anyone around. The sunsets are epic and there really isn't a bad time to be had on this beach. Last time we visited, we saw clams, sea lions, and sand dollars. Many locals walk their dogs and after a nice beach walk they go to local restaurants on Santa Claus Ln. for dinner and you don't even have to move your car! Just walk down the block. read more

Santa Claus Beach - Winter walks - Beaches Near Me - Carpinteria, California

The beach is actually called Padaro Beach but the locals nicknamed it Santa Claus Beach. Whatever you call it, it seems to be more of a locals beach. It's not too big such as miles worth of sand, but it's a decently sized spot; nearly a mile along I would think. We checked out the beach for a couple hours while headed to Santa Barbara and it was nice. You'll have to cross some railroad tracks, walk on a path with huge rocks around, and then you'll be on the beach. The waves seemed to be pretty mild for all sorts of fun. To be honest, I don't know if there's a restroom around, there might be a porta potty or two however. Parking is street only and along the shoulder There's some restaurants, shops, and rental places in the locale. For some food, check out the nearby Padaro Beach Grill! read more

We liked that this beach was a bit different in how we got there; park on the side of the road and walk across the train tracks. Not a lot of people on this beach. Thats a huge plus. Definitivamente would make another stop here if ever passing through. read more

Santa Claus Beach - Beaches Near Me - Carpinteria, California

We came here with the kids on a recommendation from a friend who met us there. I'm so glad. It is secluded and seems like a private beach. There aren't too many people there. Maybe it's because you have to cross the active train tracks to get there but I was surprised. It was very clean, not crowded and it is very close to the Padaro Beach Grill. We spent the day on the beach and then ate and had some drinks next door at the Grill. It was a great day. I can only hope nobody reads this review so the word doesn't get out, the beach can stay clean and we can continue to go there. read more

I always thought this was called Padaro Beach. Would certainly echo all the positive comments posted here. This is one of the best family beaches, almost private, mostly locals. Recently much easier to access and cross the railroad tracks with little ones since most of the barbed wire fencing has rusted away. There's a few well travelled trails, so should be obvious. You do need to walk over a couple of short boulders to get to the sand, so maybe not the best place for grandma to easily get to. Make sure you eat at Padaro Beach Grill before or after your visit. Cautions to note: Fast trains do come by frequently enough to be warrant vigilance Parking can be limited on the weekends, so arrive early No lifeguards Lastly, this area has become something of what they call a nursery "hot spot" for juvenile great white sharks. When they are around they can lurk just beyond the breakers. Not something to cancel plans on, but a good reminder that there's sharks in the ocean. read more

Santa Claus Beach - ~7 foot shark in the breakers at Padaro Beach - Beaches Near Me - Carpinteria, California

This is a great hidden gym on the California coast. Easy to access and the sand is soft and beautiful. The surf is not too rough and Just a lazy relaxing beach. Almost feels private. Great for kids as well. Very close to a couple of local food options read more

The beach is epic...love Carpenteria I have so many good childhood memories with my family hanging out at Santa Claus beach. Just make sure you bring your big hat and plenty of sunblock:) Have fun Sharon Van Ert read more

The best beach in Santa Barbara County, if not all of Southern California. Beautiful walk up and down! Perfect for a first date little excursion. Pack your blanket and a bottle of wine (boys take notes). Always an amazing sunset. Right off the freeway. Little waves but enough to get a little surf/boogie on. Always a good time! Please check it out. read more

Santa Claus Beach - Beaches Near Me - Carpinteria, California

What a great beach right between Ventura and Santa Barbara. We took our two Labradors on a Monday of a holiday weekend and it was deserted. The beach was clean, there was parking and there is a very cute town as you reenter going south on the 101. I would imagine in the spring and summer it gets crowded and there is not much parking along the train track area. We will definitely be visiting again next time we are in the Ventura area we also visited Carpinteria Beach which also was great. read more

Santa Claus Beach - Beaches Near Me - Carpinteria, California

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After visiting Padaro Beach Grill, we wondered about its namesake beach. Checked it out online and found that access is via the road. No set parking, and not well marked, there is a pathway just beyond the new houses on Santa Claus Lane, where a chemical toilet is placed. You carefully (!!!) cross the railroad tracks, scamper over big rocks, then land on sugar-fine powdery sand as the beach begins. We were there after dinner as twilight was coming on. There were still kids frolicking in the waves on a warm Saturday evening. There are no lifeguards, and you should plan to take out everything you take in, including your trash. The only toilet is the one out by the road. This beach has a serene setting at the northwest end of Carp, with mountains as a backdrop if you turn away from the ocean. read more

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I found this to be my favorite beach near Santa Barbara! There's beautiful houses lining it in case you want to dream of being rich ;) this beach is not as packed as all the other Santa Barbara ones I had been at. Overall a great time :) read more

Best secluded beach (on weekdays lol). During the weekday this beach barely has any people on it which is great because social distancing. I came on the weekend a few weeks ago and it was kinda busy but not as busy as the more popular beaches in the area. I've been coming every week just to enjoy the sunset. I believe this beach is dog friendly. I brought my dog and other people had their dogs. read more

Incredible. Spent a week nearby in Santa Barbara and came here 5 dif days. Swimming was incredible in EARLY JANUARY. Kids were sunbathing and building sand castles while I was boogie boarding and celebrating the new year. Other guys were surfing and playing etc. Right near by... walking distance... from delicious Padaro Beach Grill. Dope beach all day thru sunset. Total gem. read more

Favorite beach in Santa Barbara area. The sand is always so clean witch a beautiful flat area. This is definitely a local favorite and it's always cool to cross the railroad tracks to get there. There's a little rock wall that offers some nice places to sit if you forgot your towel. Busy on the weekends but so peaceful on weekday mornings. Gorgeous views of Santa Barbara as well as the mountains. And despite it being right of the freeway, no traffic noise - what more could you ask for? read more

Santa Claus Beach - Karma Garden - Beaches Near Me - Carpinteria, California

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I guess I should probably start of saying that this is definitely one of the nicest beaches I've seen in SoCal; and saying I come from Hawaii, hopefully adds some gravity to that statement. Haha. We were there on a Saturday afternoon and stumbled upon it completely by mistake. The sand is nice, soft, white and clean, the waves were actually somewhat breaking along the shore, it was nice peaceful and quite, with hardly anyone there. Parking is free and along the railroad tracks, and the beach is right there on the other side of the tracks. If you find yourself getting hungry, there are a lot of great restaurants a stone's throw away at the end of the beach. I guess one more thing to note, while we were there a wedding party showed up and started taking wedding pictures there along the train tracks. Maybe that can also attest to its photogenicity? Hahah. I would definitely recommend checking this place out, but shhhh, let's keep it our little secret. read more

Santa Claus Beach - Beaches Near Me - Carpinteria, California

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We ate lunch at Padaro Grill today and then swung by this nearby beach to experience the water! The sand was super hot but the beach was clean. Very busy!! read more

This is a very beautiful beach! The Amtrak goes by. Right next to restaurants. Parking right in the street and the beach is right there. Alit kids on boogie boards. No lifeguards though on end section where we were. Very peaceful. read more

Santa Claus Beach - Santa Claus beach! - Beaches Near Me - Carpinteria, California

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This beach is epic, I didn't want to review because I was trying to keep it to myself. I didn't want to be sefish lol. It's a beautiful beach every angel you get a perfect picture. Whether it's the mountains, beach or the boats out in the distance. Not too many people was there when I went which made it perfect. The people were super nice and the trip to this beach was peaceful. read more

Hands down the best beach to bring your dog to. It's beautiful, clean and so peaceful. The locals are really nice and there are little shops/eateries right next door. read more

One of the hidden gems in Santa Barbara. There's not a lot of people and the place is quiet and very relaxing. I absolutely love this beach. Since it's not a "touristy" type beach, parking is quite a chore. You park on the side of a road by the bushes and then across the bushes is the Amtrak tracks which is fully functioning. Across the tracks is where the beach is. There's a bit of a dune that you have to get through. Like a really tiny one but once you get there , it's so pretty. I still don't know why it's called Santa Claus. Have fun relaxing! read more

Shh! Tell nobody about this beautiful beach. It is clean and quiet. Free parking. Bring an umbrella and watch the local surfers. Several dogs wandering around...shared our shade until the owners tracked them down. Really was a 'friendly' beach. read more

Best kept secret.......this beach is amazing. You can bei g ur dog ur kids ur beer ur cooler. Its great. Views are also great. Water was cold vut expected read more

We stopped here on our way from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles and what a good thing we did. Apart from the fact that Santa Claus beach is a very clean and pleasant place to go for a swim and lie in the sun, we also were lucky enough to see dolphins very near to the shore. It was an experience I wouldn't like to have missed. read more

One of the best beaches I have visited. Take the Santa Claus exit on 101 south and you end up parallel to the railway tracks. Just park along the tracks or the small parking spot. We were there around 8.30 am and few parking spots available and beach was empty. We spend about 30 minutes walking along the beach. We passed the same beach around 11 am and it was crowded. So get early. read more

Absolutely gorgeous, and a great place to swim in the otherwise freezing cold water of SoCal. This beach is nice and sandy, and very clean. The water is great for swimming and surfing, as the waves are quite large. There's a train track right as you enter, which makes it even more picturesque. Be careful though, it's active with Amtrak running service every hour or so. Parking can be a problem, but we got lucky and found a place right away. A great find. read more

Visit this beach! Clean, good waves for boogie boarding, easy access, and free street parking. I like the steeper slope of the beach near the water because once I set up my beach mat and umbrella at the top of the slope, I didn't have to worry about high tide coming in and making me relocate. I also prefer this beach to East Beach because there were minimal sand flies and no washed up seaweed drying out attracting the flies. Con- a few tar globs out there. Olive oil worked to get it off, but it's still yucky dealing with it. read more

About as good as It gets around here. Long beach, great for walks, swimming, boogie boarding, paddle boarding and some surfing. Restaurants down the street. Best thing about this beach is that it is clean, sandy and has very little to no seaweed. read more

Beautiful view of the sunset every single night. The water also seemed warmer than other beaches in the area. It was very clean with very few people. Definitely one of the best beaches I've ever been to and will definitely go again! read more