Rincon Point

Rincon Point is a world-famous surf spot down the coast (east) from Carpinteria, near the Santa Barbara–Ventura county line. California State Parks, through Carpinteria State Beach, manages a parking lot and the access trail to the point. Santa Barbara County runs Rincon Beach Park, at the county line, open 8 a.m. to sunset and reached from the Bates Road exit off U.S. 101.

Who Runs What at Rincon

Rincon is split between two agencies, and the signs at each lot are the ones to follow:

• California State Parks says Carpinteria State Beach "also manages a parking lot and the access trail" to Rincon Point, downcoast from the main park. State Parks does not publish separate hours or a fee for that lot online.
• Santa Barbara County runs Rincon Beach Park, about 3 miles east of Carpinteria next to the county line. From Highway 101, take the Bates Road turnoff south to the park entrance. Hours are 8 a.m. to sunset.

The Surf

The county calls Rincon "widely respected for some of the Central Coast's best surfing," and State Parks calls it internationally renowned. Carpinteria's master plan names it as famous among surfing enthusiasts. For the smaller, routine waves in front of the state beach, see surfing.

Not a Surfer?

The county lists beach access, bird watching, swimming, picnic tables and restrooms at Rincon Beach Park, and suggests it for ocean views, a picnic, photographs or a walk on the beach. Rincon Beach Park has one reservable picnic area (Area A, up to 80 people, with water and electricity) booked through the county for a $15 non-refundable fee.

Getting There From the State Beach

Rincon is downcoast (east) of Carpinteria on U.S. 101. Between the state beach and Rincon are the city's Tar Pits Park, the Carpinteria Bluffs and the harbor seal rookery, whose beach closes December 1 to May 31. See harbor seals and nearby parks.