Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve

Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve is an open space park above the ocean waves south of Carpinteria, CA. The land in the preserve was purchased with donations to protect it from development and to provide a prime spot for community recreation. From the hiking trails there are views north to the Santa Ynez Mountains and south to the Channel Islands. Many birds and other animals can be spotted along these paths. The trails also lead to the bluff’s edge with views down upon the Carpinteria Harbor Seal Rookery. At this spot next to Carpinteria Oil Pier, the seals are present year-round but the females give birth to their pups and wean them December through May. During this time the beach is closed 750 feet in both directions. To get to the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve, take the Bailard Avenue Exit off Highway 101 in Carpinteria and drive toward the ocean where you’ll find a parking lot. It requires a walk to get from the parking lot to the Carpinteria Bluff Trail which parallels the railroad tracks. Go right when you get to the Bluffs Trail and look for a beach access route soon after crossing the tracks. The beach south of the access is open year-round as it is not close to the rookery. It’s a great place for beachcombing. The Bluff Trail continues to the seal rookery overlook and then continues to Carpinteria State Beach. Restroom facilities are available at the Viola Fields sports complex on-site at the Preserve.

Address

Carpinteria Ave and Bailard Ave
Carpinteria, CA 93013

Park Name

Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve

Owner

City Beach

Pet Details

Dogs allowed on leash on trails and beach, but not at the seal rookery or overlook

Activities

Hiking, Biking, Walking, Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching, Birdwatching, Equestrian Use, Beachcombing

Amenities

Trails, Seal Rookery, Restrooms, Baseball Fields, Golf Driving Range

Links

Surfing Info & Web Cams
Water Temps
Tide Chart