Theo May
Photo Editor
Being situated on one of the most beautiful sections of California’s coast, UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) is spoiled for options when it comes to beaches. From rocky outcroppings to sandy stretches of paradise, no matter where you go, north or south, you’ll find something worth your time. With that being said, there are a few that I think stand out from the rest.
Mondo’s Beach
If you ask anyone from Santa Barbara for a beginner’s surfing spot, most of the time, they’ll suggest Mondo’s. And there’s an excellent reason for that — the break is small and manageable, and it gives you around a hundred feet to ride before you have to paddle back out. It can get crowded on weekends and sunny afternoons, but if you head over early in the morning or later in the evening, you’ll usually have the space to yourself.
Campus Point
While there are arguably better beaches nearby, Campus Point is by far the most convenient. No matter where you live on campus, it’s easy to get there. The waves are tiny because Santa Cruz Island blocks most of the major swells, but in the winter, it definitely has its days.
Goleta Beach
While you can surf here, it wouldn’t be my first choice. The break is a few feet offshore, and loose rocks that can hit you get tussled around with every wave. But it is a great place for a long walk. It seems almost endless, taking about an hour to cross the full thing. If you have a dog or want to go for a jog, this is the place.
Oil Piers Beach
A little bit south of Carpinteria on the 101, Oil Piers Beach is rocky, but has a gorgeous view over the coastline. Sunsets are jaw-dropping, and the nearby hills block a lot of the light pollution, so it also doubles as an excellent place to stargaze. It’s not a good place to swim or surf, but if you’re passing by, it’s worth a stop.
Gaviota Beach
Unfortunately, the state just raised the entry fee to $10, but Gaviota Beach is still great, regardless. It’s very out of the way — a thirty-minute drive from downtown Santa Barbara — so there’s never a problem with crowds, making it a perfect place to swim and sunbathe.