Points of Interest

Carpinteria

Welcome to the village of Carpinteria, perhaps one of the best-kept secrets in the Santa Barbara area! Though the downtown strip isn’t long, it’s chock full of shops and restaurants before it ends on the beach. Carpinteria bills its beach as one of the safest beaches in southern California due to the normally quiet surf and the gentle slope of the beach. Carpinteria has also been called one of the last “quintessential beach towns” on the map today. www.carpinteria.ca.us

Santa Barbara

A quick drive north and you’re ready to enjoy all Santa Barbara has to offer. Embrace nature with a beautiful hike or wine and dine your night away! Learn more about Santa Barbara’s dining, wineries, breweries, and attractions here https://www.santabarbara.com/

California Avocado Festival (locally known as “AvoFest”)

The avocado festival is undoubtedly one of the biggest events in Carpinteria and takes place during the first full weekend of October each year (if the 1st falls on a Saturday, it’s the next weekend). The town’s overnight accommodations usually sell out early for this event, so don’t wait until the last minute to make your reservations! www.avofest.com

Carpinteria State Beach

The Carpinteria municipal beach runs into the state beach. The state beach includes Carpinteria State Beach Park which offers camping, picnicking, fishing, surfing, swimming, and just laying back and soaking up the sun on the sand. Sorry, dogs are not allowed on either the Carpinteria Municipal or State beach. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=599

Santa Barbara Dog Parks and Beaches

If you’re looking for some dog-friendly fun visit Santa Barbara’s Arroyo Burro Beach park, which features both on and off-leash areas. In addition to the beach there are several parks you can bring your dog to run off some energy and play with new friends. Please check the County of Santa Barbara website for details on designated off-leash areas, site hours, and up-to-date canine laws. http://countyofsb.org/parks/dog.sbc

Harbor Seal Rookery

Across the street from the hotel, you can take a short 10-minute walk down Dump Road (we know, not a glamorous name) to the Chevron Pier and Tar Pits Park. Just south of the Pier (not open to the public) there is a bluff-top viewing area where you can watch and photograph the local harbor seals. The seals are often present year-round but during pupping season docents are stationed at the viewing area at the top of the bluff to answer visitors’ questions. Please respect the seals and don’t make sudden moves or loud noise while viewing them! www.carpinteriacoast.com/seal_rookery.html

Carpinteria Salt Marsh Preserve

The salt marsh, also known as El Estuaro, is one of the most important wetlands in southern California. Take a docent-led tour every Saturday at 10 a.m. from May through November to learn more about the role this plays in our ecosystem. Outside of the tour you may visit the park and use the provided platforms along Ash Avenue for safe viewing of the estuary. https://carpinteria.ucnrs.org/

Tee Time Practice Center

A popular activity for seasoned golfers and beginners alike, the Santa Barbara Golf Driving Range offers a world-class driving range and practice facility. Located just ½ a mile from the hotel this driving range provides everything you need! Visit their website for more information on rates, instruction, and more. http://www.santabarbaragolfdrivingrange.com