Find hotels near El Capitan State Beach, Goleta

Top reasons to visit El Capitan State Beach

• Stunning Beaches: El Capitan State Beach features picturesque sandy shores, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
• Whale Watching: Experience excellent whale watching opportunities, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
• Campground Experience: Enjoy a popular campground that caters to outdoor lovers with amenities for a memorable stay.
• Scenic Picnic Areas: Charming picnic tables offer scenic spots to unwind and enjoy coastal views.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The beach is perfect for families, providing a mix of leisure and adventure activities.

Find great hotels near El Capitan State Beach

Explore a range of hotel accommodations near El Capitan State Beach, California, perfect for families, adventure seekers, and pet-friendly travelers. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts or cozy hotels, you'll find options that cater to your needs. Discover the best and closest lodging, including popular favorites and unique stays at El Capitan Canyon, ensuring a memorable vacation experience by the beautiful California coastline.

• Motel 6 Goleta, CA - Santa Barbara: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, Motel 6 Goleta, CA - Santa Barbara offers a straightforward and pet-friendly lodging experience. Located 17.7km from El Capitan State Beach, this motel caters to those seeking a relaxed atmosphere without breaking the bank. With a welcoming policy for pets, you can enjoy your vacation with your furry friends without worry. The essential amenities ensure a comfortable stay, making it a practical choice for families and individuals alike.
• The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara: For an indulgent getaway, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara stands out as a luxurious 5-star destination just 9.7km from El Capitan State Beach. This property is perfect for romantic escapes and adventurous spirits, featuring a variety of outdoor activities such as parasailing, kayaking, and hiking. Guests can enjoy stunning ocean views from the on-site restaurant, and romantic packages enhance the experience. With a full-service spa and pool cabanas, this hotel is designed for relaxation and pampering, making it an exceptional choice for discerning travelers.
• Hilton Garden Inn Santa Barbara / Goleta: Offering a welcoming atmosphere for business and family travelers, Hilton Garden Inn Santa Barbara / Goleta is located 14.5km from El Capitan State Beach. This 3-star hotel is LGBTQIA friendly and provides essential amenities for families, including free cribs for infants. Its proximity to local attractions and business centers makes it a versatile choice for various types of visitors. With a focus on comfort and convenience, guests can enjoy a relaxing stay with all the necessary facilities at their fingertips.

Where to stay near El Capitan State Beach

El Capitan State Beach offers a perfect getaway along the stunning California coast, featuring charming cedar cabins and scenic picnic tables for relaxation. This family-friendly destination ensures memorable excursions while providing a romantic atmosphere for couples. Nearby attractions enhance your experience, making it an ideal spot for both leisure and adventure. Discover the beauty of coastal living and unwind in this picturesque setting that promises to create lasting memories.

• Solvang: Nestled 17.7km from El Capitan State Beach, Solvang is a charming city known for its unique Danish-inspired architecture and vibrant local culture. Visitors flock to Solvang year-round, particularly in the spring and summer months. A romantic getaway or a family adventure awaits you here, with popular activities like golfing and exploring recreational areas. Don’t miss the local landmarks, including historic houses and monuments that tell the story of this quaint town. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets lined with shops and bakeries, sampling delicious pastries and enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
• Goleta: Goleta is the city that encompasses El Capitan State Beach, offering a seamless blend of outdoor activities and stunning scenery. With a steady flow of visitors, especially during the warmer months, Goleta is ideal for those seeking adventure and relaxation alike. The area boasts numerous recreational spots, including family-friendly beaches and educational facilities. Explore the local attractions, such as historic colleges and entertainment venues, or simply unwind on the beautiful sandy shores. Goleta is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in California’s coastal lifestyle.
• Santa Ynez: Also located 17.7km from El Capitan State Beach, Santa Ynez is a picturesque city famed for its rolling hills and wine country. This destination appeals to couples and families seeking a delightful getaway. With abundant recreational activities, including golf courses and serene lakes, visitors can enjoy both relaxation and adventure. The area is also home to inviting family beaches, making it a perfect spot for a day of fun in the sun. Discover the local charm, explore the wineries, and experience the vibrant community that embodies the spirit of California.

Things to do near El Capitan State Beach

El Capitan State Beach offers a variety of activities for visitors, including a popular campground perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can relax on the beach with beach chairs while enjoying the stunning views. The area is also known for excellent whale watching opportunities, making it a great spot for nature lovers. Overall, the beach area provides a wonderful setting for relaxation and adventure alike.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is Camino Real Marketplace, 14.5km away, offering a public market experience with a lively city vibe. If you're up for a drive, head to Paseo Nuevo Mall, 29.0km away, featuring a mix of shopping, entertainment, and family-friendly options.

Recreation

Sandpiper Golf Club offers a stunning coastal course just 11.3km from El Capitan State Beach, perfect for golf enthusiasts seeking outdoor vibes. Similarly, Glen Annie Golf Club, located 12.9km away, and Rancho San Marcos Golf Course, 16.1km distant, provide scenic landscapes and invigorating sports experiences.

Adventure

Embark on the Lost Valley Trail, located 17.7km from El Capitan State Beach, where you can immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery and enjoy outdoor adventure vibes. For a biking experience, head to the Cabrillo Bikeway, 30.6km away, offering a beautiful outdoor atmosphere. The Jesusita Trail, 25.7km from the beach, also promises stunning views and exciting hiking opportunities.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near El Capitan State Beach. Catch a show at Solvang Festival Theater for a cultural evening, enjoy drinks and romance at Cold Spring Tavern, or unleash your competitive spirit at Zodo's - Bowling and Beyond for some fun-filled adventures.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Capitan State Beach

To save money on your trip to El Capitan State Beach, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February and November when prices drop. Booking on a Tuesday can also help you find lower rates compared to Saturdays. Use Expedia to search for budget-friendly hotels and take advantage of package deals that combine flights, accommodations, and activities. Look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable options and keep an eye out for last-minute deals to maximize your savings while enjoying the beautiful beach and surrounding nature.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around El Capitan State Beach are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around El Capitan State Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around El Capitan State Beach is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget and choose your desired location, among other options. You can organize your search results to display the lowest prices first, helping you find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be able to view sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at El Capitan State Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near El Capitan State Beach

Visitors to El Capitan State Beach in Goleta, California, can enjoy a variety of attractions, including beautiful beaches, historic colleges, and serene lakes. This destination offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Don't miss the chance to explore nearby beaches and take in the stunning scenery at El Capitan State Beach. Whether you're looking to unwind or immerse yourself in nature, there's something for everyone here.

• University of California, Santa Barbara: A prestigious institution known for its beautiful campus, UCSB offers stunning ocean views and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. Explore art galleries, attend events, and enjoy the lush landscapes that create an inspiring environment.
• Refugio State Beach: Located only 3.2km away, this picturesque beach is perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and swimming. With its scenic coastline and gentle waves, it’s an ideal spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty of California’s coast.
• Lake Cachuma: Just 14.5km from El Capitan, this serene lake offers romantic vistas, outdoor activities like fishing and hiking, and stunning scenery. It’s a perfect getaway for nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure.

Best time to go to El Capitan State Beach

The best time to visit El Capitan State Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around El Capitan State Beach falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around El Capitan State Beach falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
April	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
May	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	71.6°F (22.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to El Capitan State Beach

To visit El Capitan State Beach, you can choose from several nearby airports. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is 17.7km away and offers great hotel options like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara and El Encanto, both 5-star hotels. Santa Ynez Airport (SQA), also 17.7km away, features the Chumash Casino Resort and The Genevieve, both 4-star accommodations. For those considering Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX), located 62.8km away, the Wine Stone Inn and Historic Santa Maria Inn are excellent choices. Each airport provides convenient access to these hotels, ensuring a smooth transition from your flight to your beach getaway.