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El Capitán State Beach
State park · Goleta, California
Use caution — an official advisory is in effect
Use cautionUse caution — an official advisory is in effect: a Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect for San Luis Obispo County Beaches; Santa Barbara County Central Coast Beaches and other areas.
- Water temp 73°F (23°C)
Live data from NOAA buoy 46053 (19 mi away), as of Oct 29, 10:00 AM UTC.
Why, sources & official advisories
- A Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect for San Luis Obispo County Beaches; Santa Barbara County Central Coast Beaches and other areas. — NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA
- Water temperature is 73°F, within the comfortable 70–86°F range. — NOAA buoy 46053, as of Oct 29, 10:00 AM UTC
- No official beach advisory posted (California Water Boards — FHAB Reports checked).
Official advisories
Checked against California Water Boards — FHAB Reports — no advisory posted.
Get an email when it’s warm enough
It’s 73°F at El Capitán State Beach now. We check the water daily and email you once when it reaches your temperature.
Beach with sandy shore & rocky tide pools, offering swimming, fishing & surfing.
Things to Do Near El Capitán State Beach
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Long Beach Harbor 45-Minute Boat Tour

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San Francisco Golden Gate Bay Cruise

Highway 1 Pacific Coast Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
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Frequently asked questions
- Where is El Capitán State Beach?
- El Capitán State Beach is a state park in Goleta, California.
- What is the water temperature at El Capitán State Beach?
- As of October 29, 2026, the water temperature at El Capitán State Beach in Goleta, California is 73°F (23°C), measured by NOAA buoy 46053, 19 miles away.
- Can you swim at El Capitán State Beach?
- Use caution — an official advisory is in effect: a Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect for San Luis Obispo County Beaches; Santa Barbara County Central Coast Beaches and other areas. Checked October 29, 2026.
- How is El Capitán State Beach rated?
- El Capitán State Beach in Goleta, California has an average visitor rating of 4.6 out of 5, based on 1172 reviews.
- What amenities does El Capitán State Beach have?
- Visitor-listed amenities at El Capitán State Beach include camping-nearby.
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Location & Contact
1 El Capitan State Beach Rd, Goleta, CA 93117
Goleta, California 93117
Phone
+1 805-585-1850💡 Best times & visiting tips
- ›Weekday mornings (8–10 AM) are typically less crowded
- ›Check the forecast 2–3 days ahead for best planning
- ›Avoid holiday weekends for a quieter experience
Features & amenities
Highlights
Accessibility
Amenities
Family & Children
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