Carpinteria State Beach

The sleepy town of Carpinteria is located only a few miles south of the city of Santa Barbara. Its state beach is a mile-long stretch of soft, white sand, with an incredibly popular campground directly across from the waves that crash upon the shore. Unfurtunately, dogs are not allowed on the beach in an effort to protect the snowy plover, a shorebird whose population is threatened.

There are still a lot of fun activities for you and your dog to enjoy at the state beach and campground. Separating the beach from the pup-friendly campground is a large, wide-open field and picnic area. You and your dog can enjoy the open space and take refuge from the sun underneath one of the many strategically planted park trees. Restrooms, fresh water, barbeque pits, and picnic tables are all available for public use throughout the day, making this a pupular destination for families and large groups.

To access this furbulous park, you'll need to pay a $10 day use fee to park in the on site lot. Annual passes good at many California state parks are available, and range in price from $5 to $195. Parking along the side street is metered and available as well.

Pups visiting the Carpinteria State Beach should stay on a 6-foot leash at all times. If camping, dogs need to be with you in the tent or resting in a vehicle. Be sure to bring all the essentials, including clean-up bags, and always pick up whatever your dog lays down.

If you find yourself headed north to Santa Barbara, pull off into Carpinteria to discover a whole new getaway destination. Although not the place to swim with your dog, this beach is still an amazing place to soak up the sun, enjoy a picnic and relax with your furry bestie.