El Capitán State Beach
The park is currently Open with restrictions in services and/or facilities.
Please check the hours of operation.Trail closure dates:
- September 16–23
- September 30–October 7
Please follow all posted signage and share the roadway with pedestrians and bicyclists.
Contact Information
(805) 968-1033
Reservation Availability
About El Capitán State Beach
Park information
Upcoming Events
No upcoming events are listed for this park.
All events for El Capitán State Beach
Most Recent News Releases
Day-Use Activities & Facilities
Trail Use
El Capitán State Beach offers visitors a sandy beach, rocky tidepools, and stands of sycamore and oaks along El Capitán Creek. It’s a perfect setting for swimming, fishing, surfing, picnicking and camping. A stairway provides access from the bluffs to the beach area.
Beach wheelchairs are available for use by the public with no cost. With this specially designed chair, wheelchair users may access the beach at several locations. Contact a ranger or lifeguard for additional information.
Now Hiring!
Special Events
El Capitán State Beach has two spacious yet private meadows next to the beach with vast and pristine ocean views. The meadows are a wonderful venue for large weddings, celebrations, and other events. Meadow Two is currently accessible only on foot, so small weddings are possible, but all equipment must be hand-carried or transported using small wagons. The large campground sits amongst sycamores and oaks on top of the bluffs that rise dramatically from the water. The park features a campfire center, multiple group camps, plentiful parking, and 2,500 acres of backcountry to explore on the Bill Wallace Trail.
Please submit an inquiry for the quickest response. For additional questions, contact SB.SpecialEvents@parks.ca.gov or call (805) 968-1711 to speak with the Special Event Coordinator about your event.
RV Rental Delivery Policy
ATTENTION: Trailers may be rented and delivered to the park from 101 RV Rentals. This is the only business permitted for delivery of RVs in this state park. It is illegal to conduct business in a park area without a permit, contract, or other written agreement. Renting from a business other than 101 RV Rentals may leave you without accommodations as the RV/camping equipment may be turned away upon arrival at the park. 101 RV Rentals can be contacted at (805) 210-7391.
- Parks and Recreation Management, Inc. dba Channel Coast Camp Stores
(Beach stores at Gaviota, El Capitan, Refugio SB) - D2 Global Enterprises, Inc. dba 101 RV Rentals (Camp trailer rentals)
