Arroyo Burro Beach

Arroyo Burro Beach is a public coastline in Santa Barbara with sandy shores nestled below coastal bluffs. The space includes picnic areas, outdoor showers, and a restaurant, creating a full-service beach setting near the Douglas Family Preserve.

The land became public in 1947 when Santa Barbara County acquired it from the State of California for recreation. This purchase established the coastline as a public destination rather than private land.

Locals call this place Hendry's Beach after the Hendry family who farmed here in the 1800s. The name reflects how the area's agricultural roots remain part of how people think about the coastline today.

Free parking is available right at the entrance, making it easy to visit without extra planning. The beach has outdoor showers and picnic tables spread throughout, so you can spend as long as you like comfortably.

A section east of the main beach allows dogs to run off-leash, drawing many pet owners to this spot. This dedicated area makes it different from typical beaches that restrict dogs to leashes.

Location: California

Inception: 1947

Website: http://countyofsb.org/parks

GPS coordinates: 34.40300,-119.74400

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:42