Arroyo Burro Beach County Park Trails
Arroyo Burro Beach County Park Trails
Highlight • Trail
Arroyo Burro Beach County Park Trails
Running
5.0
(2)
Arroyo Burro Beach County Park, affectionately known by locals as Hendry's Beach, is a cherished coastal destination situated just west of downtown Santa Barbara, California. This expansive park, with an elevation of approximately 36 meters, features a broad sandy beach, coastal bluffs, and the terminus of Arroyo Burro Creek, which flows into the Pacific Ocean. It stands adjacent to the scenic Douglas Family Preserve, offering a diverse landscape for recreation and nature observation in Santa Barbara County.
Visitors consistently praise the park's welcoming atmosphere, especially its reputation as a premier dog beach with dedicated off-leash areas and convenient washing stations. The panoramic ocean views, stretching across the Santa Barbara coastline to the Channel Islands, are a major draw, providing a stunning backdrop for walks and relaxation. Many also appreciate the blend of natural beauty with convenient amenities, making it an ideal spot for a day out.
Before heading out, it's good to know that Arroyo Burro Beach County Park offers free parking, though it can fill up quickly on busy days. Restrooms, picnic areas with barbecue grills, and a restaurant, The Boathouse, are available on-site. The park is easily accessible via Cliff Drive, just a short drive from Highway 101, making it a convenient escape. While the park officially closes at sunset, vehicles parked before then can remain into the evening hours.
The park is a year-round destination, with mild Southern California weather making it pleasant for visits in any season. It's a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding, thanks to its gentle surf. Beyond the beach, the Arroyo Burro Beach County Park trails are excellent for leisurely strolls, while the adjacent Douglas Family Preserve trails offer more extensive routes for running and hiking, providing solitude and elevated viewpoints. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching, whale spotting during migration seasons, and observing marine life in the tidepools during low tide.
The experience at Arroyo Burro Beach is often highlighted by the joy of watching dogs play freely in the surf, the vibrant marine life revealed in the tidepools, and the breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific. Many visitors cherish the opportunity to combine a beach day with a scenic walk along the bluff trails, offering a unique perspective of the coastline. The presence of the Watershed Resource Center also provides an educational element, focusing on local ecological efforts.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach day, a scenic run, or a dog-friendly adventure, Arroyo Burro Beach County Park offers a variety of experiences. Explore the diverse Arroyo Burro Beach County Park trails, discover the natural features of the Douglas Family Preserve, or simply unwind by the ocean. You can find numerous routes for hiking, running, and walking, helping you plan your perfect visit to this beautiful Santa Barbara landmark.
Tips
December 2, 2023
Running
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Arroyo Burro Beach County Park Trails
4.5
(2)
22
runners
10.1km
01:06
80m
80m
Embark on a moderate jogging route that takes you along the scenic Santa Barbara coastline, covering 6.3 miles (10.1 km) with an elevation gain of 271 feet (83 metres). This diverse path offers a blend of paved surfaces, coastal bluffs, and sandy stretches, providing an engaging workout that typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes to complete. You'll start on the paved paths of UC Santa Barbara's West Campus, enjoying views of the ocean and a tranquil lagoon before transitioning to Shoreline Park. From there, you can take in expansive vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands as you continue your run towards the beach.
When planning your visit, be aware that conditions for jogging on the sand at Arroyo Burro Beach can change with the tides. Low tide generally offers more optimal running surfaces, while high tide might make parts of the beach difficult to navigate due to rocky areas. Parking is usually available at Shoreline Park, making it a convenient starting point for your coastal adventure. If you plan to bring your dog, remember that they must be kept on a leash in park areas and specific sections of the beach to ensure everyone's enjoyment and safety.
This route culminates at Arroyo Burro Beach County Park, famously known as Hendry's Beach, where you can experience an iconic run directly on the sand. The journey offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural beauty of the Santa Barbara coast, from the university campus to the open ocean. It's a fantastic way to combine your jogging routine with stunning natural scenery and the refreshing sea air, making it a local favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.
4
runners
5.19km
00:35
60m
60m
This moderate 3.2-mile (5.2 km) jogging loop at Mesa & Arroyo Burro Beach County Park offers diverse terrain and stunning coastal views.
2
runners
6.12km
00:44
150m
150m
Jog a moderate 3.8-mile loop connecting Elings Park and Arroyo Burro Beach, offering panoramic views and coastal scenery in Santa Barbara.
Details
Informations
Elevation 40 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 8 May
19°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dog policy at Arroyo Burro Beach County Park, and are there specific off-leash areas?
Arroyo Burro Beach, also known as Hendry's Beach, is renowned as a dog-friendly destination. While the beach itself technically requires dogs to be on-leash, the adjacent area just east, below the Douglas Family Preserve, is a popular off-leash zone where dogs can roam freely. The park also provides convenient self-serve dog washing stations, making it easy to clean up your furry friend after a sandy adventure.
Are there accessible trails or facilities for visitors with mobility challenges at Arroyo Burro Beach County Park?
Yes, Arroyo Burro Beach County Park strives to be accessible. Beach wheelchairs are available seasonally, typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day, to help visitors with mobility challenges enjoy the sandy beach. The main pathways and facilities like restrooms and the restaurant are generally accessible.
What kind of wildlife can be observed at Arroyo Burro Beach County Park and its surrounding trails?
The park and its adjacent areas are rich in wildlife. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, with various species frequenting the creek and coastal bluffs. During migration seasons, whale spotting is possible from the shore. The tidepools, exposed at low tide, reveal colorful sea stars, anemones, and small fish. Marine life such as seals can also be observed in the waters.
Beyond the beach, what other trails are available for hiking or running near Arroyo Burro Beach County Park?
While Arroyo Burro Beach County Park offers pleasant beach walks, the adjacent Douglas Family Preserve provides more extensive bluff trails. These trails are popular for running and offer panoramic ocean views and a sense of solitude. They are excellent for those looking for a longer hike or a more vigorous run with elevated perspectives of the coastline.
Are there any dining options or cafes directly at or near Arroyo Burro Beach County Park?
Yes, the park features an on-site restaurant called The Boathouse, which offers dining with ocean views for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This makes it convenient for visitors to grab a meal or a snack without leaving the park. There are also picnic areas with BBQ grills available for those who prefer to bring their own food.
How can I get to Arroyo Burro Beach County Park using public transport?
Arroyo Burro Beach County Park is located off Cliff Drive, approximately five miles west of downtown Santa Barbara. While specific public transport routes can vary, local bus services in Santa Barbara often have stops along Cliff Drive or nearby major roads. It's advisable to check the current Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) schedules and routes for the most up-to-date public transport options to the park.
What are the best times of day to visit Arroyo Burro Beach County Park to avoid crowds or experience specific natural phenomena?
To avoid the largest crowds, especially on weekends and during summer, arriving earlier in the morning is recommended. For specific natural phenomena, visit during low tide to explore the expansive tidepools. Sunset is a particularly popular time for breathtaking views of the Santa Barbara coastline and Channel Islands.
What amenities are available at Hendry's Beach for visitors?
Hendry's Beach, or Arroyo Burro Beach, offers a range of amenities for visitors. These include restrooms, picnic areas with barbecue grills, and an on-site restaurant, The Boathouse. For dog owners, there are self-serve dog washing stations. Additionally, the Watershed Resource Center provides ecological education, and beach wheelchairs are available seasonally.
Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks to look out for along the trails at Arroyo Burro Beach County Park and the Douglas Family Preserve?
The primary viewpoints are along the bluff trails within the adjacent Douglas Family Preserve, which offer panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Barbara coastline, and the Channel Islands. From these elevated positions, you can also observe surfers in the water and potentially spot marine wildlife. The confluence of Arroyo Burro Creek with the ocean is another natural landmark within the park itself.
What should I wear for hiking or walking the trails at Arroyo Burro Beach County Park and the Douglas Family Preserve?
Given the coastal environment, layers are always a good idea as temperatures can change. Comfortable walking or hiking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the bluff trails in the Douglas Family Preserve. Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is essential due to the open exposure. For beach walks, sandals or bare feet are common.