Santa Barbara Harbor Beach (Sandspit)

This small beach is located at the end of the breakwater for Santa Barbara Harbor and is walking distance from Stearns Wharf on the city waterfront. When the tide is low, the beach gets much bigger, but even when the sand is mostly wet, this is a fun place to go for pictures. Surfers know this area as Sandspit or Sandbar (Sbar). The waves that wrap around the point sometimes create a powerful curl which local surfing experts can ride. When the waves are small, beginner surfers can try their luck, but when the waves are big, this is serious surfing. The end of the breakwater is a perfect vantage point for watching these risk takers.To reach the beach walk past the harbor in the direction of the ocean. Then turn left and follow the paved path to then end of the breakwater where a rock jetty extends back toward the shore to protect the harbor. There is a narrow wooden beam that runs the full length of the rock jetty and ends at the sandy beach. At low tide, it is easier and much safer to just climb down the rocks to the beach, but don’t do this when waves could crash against the jetty. Also, don’t walk the beam if you are not comfortable because a slip or fall could be painful. You might see people in kayaks or SUPs pulling out onshore to take a break at this location. If you want to join them, ask around at the harbor for rentals as there are a couple outfits there.

Address

132 Harbor Way
Santa Barbara, CA 93109

Phone

805-564-5531

Other Names

Sandspit, Sandbar, Point Castillo, Jetty Beach

Owner

City

Pet Details

Dogs not allowed on beach but OK on harbor property

Fees

Free parking near harbor entrance and on W Cabrillo Blvd

Activities

Surfing, Walking, Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Amenities

Jetty, Bench

Links

Tide Tables
Surf Report and Cam
Water Quality
Water Temperature