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Photo: El Capitan State Beach (42897998455) by Björn S... (CC BY-SA 2.0) License

El Capitán State Beach

State park · Goleta, California

Use caution — an official advisory is in effect

Use caution

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.

  • 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.

camping-nearbyBarbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroom

Beach with sandy shore & rocky tide pools, offering swimming, fishing & surfing.

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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.

Location & Contact

1 El Capitan State Beach Rd, Goleta, CA 93117

Goleta, California 93117

💡 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

⭐ Picnics

Accessibility

♿ Wheelchair accessible entrance♿ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Amenities

⛺ Camping nearby🍖 Barbecue grill🧺 Picnic tables🚻 Public restroom

Family & Children

👶 Good for kids👶 Kid-friendly hikes
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