Fishing & Diving

Carpinteria State Beach is a popular surf-fishing spot. The park's master plan says the reef just offshore draws abundant marine life, and California State Parks lists fishing, scuba diving and snorkeling among the park's activities. Anyone 16 or older needs a California sport fishing license from the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Surf Fishing

State Parks names surf fishing as one of the main things to do on the park's mile of beach. The master plan explains why: the natural reef offshore attracts abundant marine life, and the subtidal reef northwest of the park holds fish and invertebrates important to recreational anglers. Fish from the sand, and keep clear of swimmers, especially near the lifeguard towers in summer.

Fishing License

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife says a sport fishing license is required for anyone 16 or older who takes fish, shellfish or other marine life in ocean waters, with extra report cards for some species. Licenses are sold online and through CDFW agents. No license is needed when angling from a qualifying public pier or on a free fishing day; the pier exception does not cover fishing from the beach.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

State Parks lists scuba diving and snorkeling here, and the master plan says the reef makes the area attractive to divers, though normal underwater visibility is somewhat limited. The kelp and algae on the subtidal reef feed the invertebrates that make it worth a look on a calm day.

Rules to Know

• All plants and animals inside the park are protected by law. That includes the tide pools; tide pool creatures are not bait.
• Stay away from the harbor seal rookery east of the park, closed December 1 to May 31, and never approach seals.
• No fires on the beach to cook a catch; use campground fire rings or barbecues.
• Expect natural tar on the rocks and sand; see tar seeps.