El Capitán State Beach
The Park is currently CLOSED.
2/13/2025 – El Capitan State Beach Entrance Improvement Project: Beginning Thursday February, 20 2025, El Capitan State Beach will be closed to all vehicles and camping to facilitate the next phase of the El Capitan State Beach Entrance Improvement Project.
Until further notice, only pedestrians can access the park.
Route(s) for pedestrian access will be based on active construction restrictions. The day use restrooms, near the beach, will remain open for the public.
Please follow wayfinding signage placed throughout day use areas of the park.
Until further notice, only pedestrians can access the park.
Route(s) for pedestrian access will be based on active construction restrictions. The day use restrooms, near the beach, will remain open for the public.
Please follow wayfinding signage placed throughout day use areas of the park.
Park Facilities
Trailer: 42 Feet
Camper/Motorhome: 42 Feet
Camper/Motorhome: 42 Feet
Family Campsites
Group Campsites
Hike or Bike Campsites
RV Access
Group Campsites
Hike or Bike Campsites
RV Access
Camp Store
Parking
Restrooms / Showers
Restrooms
Outdoor Showers
Drinking Water Available
Wheelchair Accessible
Parking
Restrooms / Showers
Restrooms
Outdoor Showers
Drinking Water Available
Wheelchair Accessible
Boating
El Capitan, Refugio, Gaviota General Plan Update: General Plan updates are coming for El Capitan State Beach, Refugio State Beach, and Gaviota State Park. Informed by community input, the plan will include recommendations for protecting significant resources, modernizing park infrastructure, adapting to climate change impacts, and providing sustainable recreational opportunities for all visitors. For all the latest information and to take the public input survey, please visit http://www.ecrgplanupdate.com.
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!
Apply Now! Job Opportunities
Special Events
ADVISORY: El Capitan State Beach is currently not accepting special event inquiries due to the park's Entrance Improvement Project.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
El Capitán State Beach has a spacious yet private meadow next to the beach with vast and pristine ocean views, a wonderful venue for large weddings, celebrations, and other events. 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 Walllace Trail.
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.
Additional Visitor Services
- 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)
