Vista del Mar Beach, United States of America - Beach Guide, Info, Photos

Vista del Mar Beach is a beach located in Santa Barbara County, USA, which is part of the Gaviota State Park property. It is located below an old oil tank farm property and next to the Gaviota Gas Plant along Highway 101.

Despite its proximity to the highway, the beach feels remote due to the presence of tall cliffs. However, the parking area is small and not easily noticeable on the southern lanes of Highway 101. Visitors must hike down a trail and cross railroad tracks to reach the beach.

During low tides, visitors can walk west to Gaviota State Beach or east to San Onofre Beach. If you seek a tranquil beach experience, Vista del Mar Beach is definitely worth a visit.

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Vista del Mar Beach Photos Visitor Reviews Where to Stay near Vista del Mar Beach? Where is Vista del Mar Beach? Vista del Mar Beach: Weather Today Beaches near Vista del Mar Beach

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight that East Beach is a great beach for families and dog owners with soft sand, warm water, and plenty of space to hang out without feeling crowded. Visitors appreciate the free street parking and the short walk from the parking lot to the beach. However, some visitors note that the beach can be dirty closer to the parking lot and that the public restrooms are typical beach restrooms.

Where to Stay near Vista del Mar Beach?

If you're planning a trip to Vista del Mar Beach, consider staying in the nearby city of Santa Barbara, known for its charming downtown area and wide range of accommodation options. For those looking to stay closer to nature, the Gaviota State Park offers camping facilities that provide a rustic experience and are just a short drive from the beach.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Where is Vista del Mar Beach?

Latitude: 34.415256 / Longitude: -119.6763529

Vista del Mar Beach is located in Santa Barbara. The following map of Vista del Mar Beach shows the exact location.

Nearby destinations:

Vista del Mar Beach: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, August 15, 2026

Summary
Full Forecast

Today offers a pleasant and comfortable day at Vista del Mar Beach, perfect for those who enjoy mild coastal weather. You will encounter a mix of sun and scattered clouds throughout the afternoon, providing a balanced environment for relaxing on the sand. The breeze remains light and steady, ensuring the air feels fresh without being disruptive. With a high air temperature of 24.4 °C and a sea temperature of 21.9 °C, the water is inviting for a refreshing swim, and the gentle waves remain manageable for casual water activities. Since the UV index reaches 7.6, remember to apply plenty of sun protection to stay safe during your time outdoors. Overall, it is a great day to head to the shore and enjoy the scenic California coastline.

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Air

Low / High	16.1°C/24.4°C
Feels Like (High)	26.9°C

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Sea

Sea Temperature	21.9 °C
Wave Height	0.9 m

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Rain

Rain Chance	2%
Rainfall	0 mm
Rain Duration	0 h

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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset	06:19/19:46
Sunshine Hours	9.4 hrs
UV Index	7.6
Cloud Cover	46%

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Wind

Speed	15.2 km/h
Gusts	19.8 km/h
Direction	S