East Beach - a crack in the ground in the middle of the desert
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East Beach

4.5
·243 reviews·Santa Barbara, United States

A long, palm-lined sandy beach in Santa Barbara, famous for its stunning sunsets and vibrant volleyball scene. Lifeguarded in summer.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for sunsets & fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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East Beach - a crack in the ground in the middle of the desert

East Beach

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for sunsets & fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A long, palm-lined sandy beach in Santa Barbara, famous for its stunning sunsets and vibrant volleyball scene. Lifeguarded in summer.

4.5
(243 reviews)

"East Beach was great for taking a walk and enjoying the scene. The sand was clean, unlike some of the other beaches."

Vertical photo
TIP

Tar Spot Savvy

Beware of tar spots on the sand! Baby oil or sunscreen spray is your best friend for removal. :sparkles:

Sunset Spectacle

Catch the magical sunset; it's a highlight locals and visitors rave about. :city_sunset:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Hour Sunsets

Golden Hour Sunsets

The entire beach

Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the calm waters.

Volleyball Paradise

Volleyball Paradise

Volleyball courts

Join in or watch lively volleyball games with friendly locals and visitors.

Family-Friendly Shores

Family-Friendly Shores

Near lifeguard stations

Gentle waves make it ideal for young children and water activities like jet skiing.

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Planning Your Visit

Sunsets & Sand: Your East Beach Guide

East Beach offers a beautiful, palm-lined sandy expanse perfect for sunset strolls and beach games. Lifeguards are on duty during summer, ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit for all. Be mindful of occasional tar spots on the sand; baby oil or sunscreen spray can help remove them.

Parking & Access Tips

Finding parking at East Beach is generally straightforward, with ample spaces available. The beach boasts easy access, making it convenient for families and those carrying beach gear. Enjoy the clean sand and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing day by the water.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Perfect for sunsets & fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful beach experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Paradise found! Save this location for your best sunset in California next time: 📍East Beach, Santa Barbara #santabarbara #eastbeach #california #californialove #californiacoast #sunsetsky #sunsetbeach
@elinaways
224 likes • 15.8K views

Tar Spot Savvy

Beware of tar spots on the sand! Baby oil or sunscreen spray is your best friend for removal. :sparkles:

Sunset Spectacle

Catch the magical sunset; it's a highlight locals and visitors rave about. :city_sunset:

welcome to the East Beach here in Santa Barbara, CA #EASTBEACH #santabarbara #CALIFORNIA #beach #thingstodo #placestogo #familydays #solo #relax #vacation #summer #fyp #fypシ #fypシ゚viral #fypage
@mysticadventures_
643 likes • 18.6K views
East Beach is the spot in Galveston that gives me all the Summer I Turned Pretty feels 🌊✨ It’s my favorite—there’s a long wooden ramp that takes you straight to the sand, and the cutest beach houses nearby. It’s way less crowded than other spots, so it feels like your own little summer escape. ☀️ 📍228 E Beach Dr, Galveston, TX 77550 ———————————————————————— East Beach es el spot en Galveston qu...
findnew_adventures
2.8K likes • 68.3K views

Volleyball Vibes

Join a friendly game or just enjoy the energetic atmosphere of the beach volleyball courts. :volleyball:

Easy Access & Parking

Parking is plentiful and beach access is a breeze, making for a stress-free visit. :car:

The @galvestonsandcastlefestival is back this weekend, Sept 13-14 at East Beach. There’s a full lineup with live music, food trucks, vendors, a kids’ zone, and more! 🏰 Remember, you can catch the shuttle from Stewart Beach to skip the lines. They’ve got a shaded waiting area, an air-conditioned gift shop, and two shuttles running every 15 minutes. VIP, one-day, and two-day tickets are available...
galvestonisland
1.3K likes • 39.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Tar Spot Savvy

Beware of tar spots on the sand! Baby oil or sunscreen spray is your best friend for removal. :sparkles:

Sunset Spectacle

Catch the magical sunset; it's a highlight locals and visitors rave about. :city_sunset:

Volleyball Vibes

Join a friendly game or just enjoy the energetic atmosphere of the beach volleyball courts. :volleyball:

Easy Access & Parking

Parking is plentiful and beach access is a breeze, making for a stress-free visit. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(243 reviews)

Reviews Summary

East Beach is widely praised for its clean, long sandy shores, ample parking, and easy access. Visitors love the beautiful sunsets and the lively beach volleyball scene. Some caution is advised regarding occasional tar spots on the sand, but solutions are readily available.

"East Beach was great for taking a walk and enjoying the scene. The sand was clean, unlike some of the other beaches in the area that leave your feet covered in a sticky, black tar. There was plenty of parking and easy access to the beach."

Grish240

"Santa Barbara beach is a superb long sweeping stretch of sand. It is well maintained and a peaceful place where locals and tourists clearly like to spend time whether that be during the day or, catching the sunset.

Lifeguard stations are dotted along the beach as a precaution for any unplanned incidents..!

A nice place to visit or simply wall along if visiting Santa Barbara."

John Gledhill

"Chill little beach. No waves, good for small children and riding jet skis 👌🏽 there’s a small skatepark nearby also"

Cronos Coin

What People Like

Beautiful sunsets
Clean sand
Plenty of parking

What People Dislike

Occasional tar spots

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

East Beach is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. It's located along the waterfront in Santa Barbara, making it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists. Public transportation options may also be available depending on your starting point.

Yes, there is plenty of parking available at East Beach, which is a major plus for visitors. The parking lots are generally well-maintained and offer convenient access to the sand. Reddit

Absolutely! East Beach is part of a beautiful coastal path, perfect for walking or biking. Enjoy the scenic route as you make your way to the beach.

While specific accessibility details can vary, many beach areas in Santa Barbara are designed with accessibility in mind. It's recommended to check with local authorities for the most up-to-date information on wheelchair access points and facilities.

From downtown Santa Barbara, East Beach is a short drive or a pleasant bike ride away. You can also consider a rideshare service for a quick and easy commute.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

East Beach is a public beach, so there is no admission fee to enter. You can enjoy the sand, sun, and surf for free. Reddit

Parking at East Beach typically involves a fee. It's advisable to check the current parking rates upon arrival, as they can vary seasonally. Reddit

East Beach is generally open from sunrise to sunset. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, typically from late morning to late afternoon.

While you can't reserve specific spots on the sand, you can often rent chairs, umbrellas, and other beach equipment from vendors located on or near the beach. Reddit

Crowds at East Beach can vary. Weekends and summer evenings tend to be busier, especially for sunset viewing and volleyball games. Weekday mornings are usually more peaceful. Reddit

🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience

East Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and enjoying the sunset. The calm waters are also great for jet skiing and are ideal for families with young children. Reddit

Yes, lifeguard stations are present along East Beach and are staffed during the summer months to ensure visitor safety. Reddit

If you step on tar, don't panic! Bystanders and beach staff often recommend using baby oil or sunscreen spray to effectively remove it from your skin or shoes. Reddit

Public restrooms and outdoor showers are typically available at East Beach, providing convenience for beachgoers. Reddit

East Beach is known for its calm waters and gentle waves, making it less ideal for traditional surfing. It's better suited for activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several dining options near East Beach, ranging from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Many are within walking distance or a short drive. Reddit

Absolutely! East Beach is a great spot for a picnic. Bringing your own food and beverages is encouraged, just remember to clean up after yourself.

While there might not be full-service restaurants directly on the sand, you'll find concessions and snack bars offering refreshments and light meals close to the beach area. Reddit

The area around East Beach offers a variety of cuisines, including fresh seafood, American classics, and international flavors. You'll find options to suit any craving. Reddit

Alcohol policies can vary, so it's best to check local regulations. Generally, responsible consumption may be permitted, but it's always wise to be aware of any restrictions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire stretch of East Beach offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. The palm trees, volleyball courts, and ocean views provide diverse backdrops. Reddit

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography at East Beach. Reddit

Drone usage is often regulated in public areas. It's essential to check local ordinances and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over East Beach. Reddit

The palm-lined promenade and the distant Santa Ynez Mountains provide iconic Santa Barbara scenery for your photos. The pier is also a popular subject. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant subjects. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies and water. :camerawithflash:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

East Beach is a fantastic choice for families. The calm waters and gentle waves are perfect for little ones to splash and play safely. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer, offering peace of mind for parents. Reddit The beach is wide and spacious, providing plenty of room for kids to run around and build sandcastles. Remember to pack sunscreen, hats, and perhaps a small shovel and pail for maximum fun!

Parking is generally easy to find, and the access to the sand is straightforward, making it convenient to manage strollers and beach gear. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as there are limited concessions directly on the sand. Reddit The nearby skatepark also offers an additional activity option for older children.

🏐 Volleyball Enthusiasts

If you love beach volleyball, East Beach is your paradise! The beach is dotted with numerous volleyball nets, and you'll often find pickup games happening throughout the day. Don't be shy – most players are friendly and welcoming to newcomers looking to join in. Reddit

Even if you're not playing, watching the energetic matches is entertaining. The vibrant atmosphere created by the games adds to the lively spirit of East Beach. It's a great place to soak in the local beach culture and perhaps even improve your game.

🌅 Sunset Chasers

For those seeking the perfect sunset spot, East Beach delivers. The long, unobstructed horizon over the ocean provides a stunning panoramic view as the sun dips below. The calm waters often create beautiful reflections, enhancing the visual spectacle. Reddit

Arrive a bit before sunset to secure a good spot and witness the sky transform into a masterpiece of colors. It’s a peaceful and romantic way to end your day, offering a moment of natural beauty that many visitors cherish. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating East Beach: From Parking to Play

East Beach in Santa Barbara is renowned for its long, sandy shores lined with iconic palm trees, making it a picturesque destination for visitors. Parking is generally plentiful, though it can come with a fee, especially during peak seasons. Many visitors find the convenience of the parking lots well worth the cost for easy access to the beach. Reddit

When it comes to access, East Beach is very user-friendly. The beach is wide and relatively flat, making it easy to walk or set up your spot. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, providing an added layer of security for families and swimmers. Reddit Be aware of occasional tar spots on the sand; a common tip from locals and visitors is to carry baby oil or sunscreen spray, which effectively dissolves the sticky residue. Reddit

The beach is a hub for activities. It's famous for its numerous volleyball nets, where friendly games are always in progress, creating a lively atmosphere. Reddit The water is typically calm with gentle waves, making it ideal for young children, swimming, and even jet skiing. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, simply strolling along the shore and enjoying the views is a popular pastime.

The Magic of East Beach Sunsets

One of the most frequently praised aspects of East Beach is its spectacular sunset views. As the day winds down, the sky often transforms into a canvas of vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples, reflecting beautifully on the calm ocean surface. This makes it a prime spot for photographers and anyone looking for a serene end to their day. Reddit

Many visitors recommend timing your visit to coincide with the golden hour for the most dramatic and memorable experience. The gentle lapping of waves and the warm glow of the setting sun create a truly magical ambiance. It’s a peaceful contrast to the daytime energy of volleyball games and family fun. Reddit

Beyond the visual spectacle, the atmosphere during sunset at East Beach is often described as tranquil and breathtaking. It’s a moment where the beach transitions from an active recreation area to a place of quiet contemplation and natural beauty. Don't miss this daily show; it's a highlight that consistently earns rave reviews.

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