Gaviota State Park

Park Hours

Day Use 7:00 a.m. to Sunset

 

Contact Information

(805) 968-1033

Are dogs Allowed?

Yes: Dogs allowed in campground and day-use area. Dogs not allowed on beach.

Reservation Availability

About Gaviota State Park

Gaviota State Park is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking and surf fishing. This section of the coast was first called gaviota (seagull) by soldiers of the Portola Expedition in 1769. A pier on the west end of the beach is used by divers and surfers. A Southern Pacific railroad trestle crosses the creek above the day-use parking lot. Visitors can explore the upland portions of the park from a trailhead in the parking area. Gaviota Peak offers a view of the coast and the Channel Islands.

Get directions through Google Maps

The park is located 33 miles west of Santa Barbara on U.S. 101.

EV Information

e-bike icon E-Bike Locations
  EV Charger Locations

Overnight Facilities

  • Family Campsites
  • Hike or Bike Campsites
  • RV Access
Other Facilities

  • Camp Store
  • Parking
  • Restrooms / Showers
  • Restrooms
  • Outdoor Showers
  • Drinking Water Available
  • Wheelchair Accessible
Boating

  • Boating
Day-Use Activities & Facilities

  • Picnic Areas
  • Fishing
  • Scuba Diving/Snorkeling
  • Beach Area
  • Swimming
  • Vista Point
  • Windsurfing/Surfing
  • Geocaching
Trail Use

  • Hiking Trails
  • Horseback Riding
Camp Trailer Rentals Camp Store
  • Channel Coast Camp Stores

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.

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Special Events

From southbound Highway 101, Gaviota State Park presents itself as the gateway to the Pacific Ocean and features seasonal camping near a secluded sandy beach. With its iconic train trestle and pier, the intimate ocean landscape is the perfect setting for your wedding, celebration or other small event. The sprawling backcountry offers many opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and experiencing natural hot springs.

Submit a Special Events Inquiry

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 at Gaviota State Park.

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)

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