About Santa Rosa Island

Sandy beaches, clear turquoise water and mountain landscapes - all this is magnificent Santa Rosa Island. Mountains and sea - a powerful mixture that takes the breath away from even the most sophisticated traveler! Please don't say we didn't warn you!

Good for Relax

Goleta Beach

Isla Vista 2.3 km
Good
7.5
Free entrance • Amenities beach • Easy access • Bright sand • Turquoise water • Large low tide
6.6 Amenities index
Good for Relax

Depressions Beach IVKC

Isla Vista 0.6 km
Good
7.3
Free entrance • Amenities beach • Easy access • Bright sand • Turquoise water • Sand bottom
5 Amenities index
Good for Relax

Sands Beach

Isla Vista 2.1 km
Good
7.2
Free entrance • Virgin beach • Easy access • Bright sand • Turquoise water • Sand bottom
1 Amenities index
For explorers

Santa Cruz Island

Isla Vista 50.3 km
Pleasant
6.9
Free entrance • Virgin beach • Bright sand • Turquoise pure water • Access by boat • No parking
0 Amenities index
Good for Relax

Water Canyon Beach

Isla Vista 49.4 km
Pleasant
6.9
Free entrance • Virgin beach • Easy access • Bright sand • Turquoise water • No parking
0 Amenities index
Good for Relax

Christi Beach

Isla Vista 42.7 km
Pleasant
6
Free entrance • Virgin beach • Easy access • Bright sand • Turquoise pure water • Deserted
1 Amenities index

Calm, measured rest and the sound of waves are perhaps the most common associations that arise with the word "beach". This is not surprising, as relaxation is exactly what many beach travelers are looking for. If you associate your vacation primarily with such activity, choose one of the 6 beaches in the island.

To make your choice easier, we have prepared a list of the best beaches for relaxation in Santa Rosa Island.

Attraction and Infrastructure

As for the main features of the beaches of Santa Rosa Island, they are as follows:

  • The island's beaches are mainly wide, long and have a high level of cleanliness. The most common surface is sand of bright color.
  • Usually, entry into the water is moderately gentle, such beaches are 3.
  • An important clarification, 1 beach in the island have a long intertidal zone, which means that during low tide hours you may have to travel a considerable distance. This is also something to consider if you don't want to suddenly be in the water at high tide.
  • The average distance from the road to beach in Santa Rosa Island is less than 500 meters. 5 beaches are relatively easy to access, and 1 beach are only accessible from the water. The latter include both island beaches and beaches with no land routes due to the natural borders.

Wild beaches with no infrastructure dominate the coastline of Santa Rosa Island however, even here you can find a beach with a standard set of accessories: sun beds, umbrellas, restaurants, showers and toilets.

Latest reviews on Santa Rosa Island's beaches

Goleta Beach
8 Sandy.

While traveling between SoCal and Central Coast, I stumbled upon a charming and quaint beach that proved to be a hidden gem. The parking is complimentary and visitors can enjoy the convenience of picnic benches and BBQ stands. The beach boasts an array of natural treasures including shells, kelp beds, and unique photo opportunities. Additionally, a pier adds to the allure of this beach and provides easy access to the other side of the parking lot. Even those with disabilities can enjoy this beach as there are designated parking spots that are within easy walking distance. The walk to the water is a breeze and the sand is minimal, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a day of relaxation.

Depressions Beach IVKC
10 Jackson Harrison

The beach near the University is absolutely stunning, and it has a very calm and relaxed atmosphere. It's not crowded at all, which makes it incredibly peaceful and perfect for finding inner peace.

Sands Beach
8 Saraiya Kwon.

When in Santa Barbara and in search of some surfing action, this beach is worth considering. However, be aware that parking space is scarce, and you'll need to walk for about five minutes to reach the shore. While the beach itself is not particularly remarkable, the surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop. During our visit in September, we encountered some tar that stuck to our skin, bathing suits, and surfboards. The water was murky and littered with seaweed and debris that day. Despite these minor setbacks, this beach is still worth checking out.

Water Canyon Beach
10 Zephyr Wanderer

Looking for recommendations on boat companies that can transport us to this beautiful beach paradise? I am in awe of the stunning scenery and crystal clear waters that surround this magnificent location. It would be a dream come true to experience the soft sand and gentle waves firsthand. Do you have any suggestions for reliable and trustworthy boat companies that can make this dream a reality? I am eager to embark on this adventure and explore all that this beach has to offer.

There are few offers for accommodation in the beach area, so finding a suitable place to stay can be a problem. You can use the map search to get more information about this.

The hottest month of the island is August - air temperature during this time warms up to 28.5°C and water up to 21.2°C in September. The coldest month is March - air temperature drops to 15.6°C and water to 13.9°C.