In search of the best and most fun things to do in Carpinteria, CA?
One of these fine hidden locations in California is Carpinteria, a small seaside city in Southwestern Santa Barbara County, situated on the Central Coast of California, with a population of 13,122 during the 2021 census.
The main street of Carpinteria features restaurants that provide the best dining experiences, bike paths, shops, and bars, all of which are next to its white sand beach.
The beaches in Carpinteria feature many outdoor activities apart from the usual sunbathing and swimming. In contrast, other attractions provide visitors with a little bit of nature and history.
Are you planning to visit Carpinteria? Check out the best things to do in Carpinteria, CA.
Things to Do in Carpinteria, CA
1. Carpinteria Tar Pits
Carpinteria Tar Pits is one of the few existing natural asphalt lakes seen worldwide. So ensure to add a visit to this attraction to your checklist of what to do in Carpinteria, CA.
Globally just five natural lakes exist, and Carpinteria houses one of them. It also has a marked area beside Carpinteria State Beach, called the “Tar Pits Park ” by the locals.
The second out of the five tar pits in the world is located in Los Angeles, known as the La Brea Tar Pits. The exciting thing about these tar pits is their amazing history.
The existence of these tar pits dates back to the Pleistocene Age, or the Ice Epoch, roughly 2.6 million years ago.
There is also a large proof of prehistoric remains of wolves, mastodons, giant sloths, elephants, and bison discovered in these tar pits. And you might be lucky to find one when you visit this place.
In the long run, these tar pits have maintained their natural state, and the one in Carpinteria is not an exemption.
Address: 5669 Carpinteria Avenue, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
2. Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary
The Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary is just opposite the old pier in the Town. It is a harbor seal rookery located south of Carpinteria State Beach.
Even with their endearing nature, people are not to come close to these seals.
Moreover, you can bring your cameras to take photos of these animals from a close range. There is a bluff that rises above the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary that gives you an excellent view of these creatures.
An ideal time to see these creatures is in the morning and afternoon. The sanctuary is nestled in the middle of Bailard Avenue and Carpinteria Avenue.
Address: 5669 Carpinteria Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
3. Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park
In spite of the huge development of the Southern California seashore, you can still find areas with natural beauty intact.
And one of these areas is the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park, a 230-acre estuary where native and migratory birds of various species call their home.
If you love bird watching, this Nature Park should be a must-see destination for you when you visit this town. The Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park occupies approximately 1.2 miles of trail, which is ideal for hiking.
This Nature Park is also the abode of essential marshes and wetlands in the county. You can find various types of bird species, both migratory and endemic.
Make sure to bring your cameras to take photos of snowy egrets, birds, and migratory ducks.
Address: 5775 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
4. Carpinteria State Beach
The city of Carpinteria is well known for its stunning and lovely beaches.
Carpinteria State Beach is not like your regular white sand beach, as it is one of the safest beaches in the Country. It is just a few distances away from the center of the town.
Visitors can engage in outdoor activities such as canoeing, marine mammal sightings, surfing, and kayaking.
Animals such as seals, whales, and dolphins are frequently seen beside the Carpinteria beach. You can also have a walk down the beach on a bare boot for a much laid-back experience.
Ensure to explore the new tide pool, which is filled with crustaceans, sea urchins, and fish that equally adds to your fun experience on the beach. Carpinteria State Beach is one of the best places to visit in Carpinteria, CA.
Address: Palm Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
5. Island Brewing Company
Are you a beer enthusiast? If yes, drop by the Island Brewing Company in Carpinteria, CA, and have a splendid beer experience.
Island Brewing Company is a well-known, family-owned, and managed brewhouse that has been functioning for two decades.
The brewhouse is popular for its favorite freshly produced ales, which are prepared right from this outstanding mini brewhouse perched in Carpinteria’s central area.
Their beers are distributed to other establishments, such as Santa Barbara County’s restaurants, bars, and shops. They provide visitors with an array of excellent ales, seasonal beers, and barrel-aged brews.
You can visit their tasting room to taste their specialty beers, alcoholic beverages, and other crafted beer.
Aside from the beer to enjoy in the tasting room, it also provides you with great views of the Channel Islands National Park and the beach.
The tasting room is available to the public every day from 12 pm to 9 pm.
Address: 5049 6th St. c, CA 93013, United States
6. Tomol Interpretive Play Area
One of the fun things to do in Carpinteria, CA, with family and friends is to check out the Interpretive Play Area. It provides you with the best of fun and entertainment, all thanks to the Morning Rotary Club of Carpinteria.
The Interpretive Play Area features a lookalike of the Chumash Village, which is used as a kiddie’s play area. The park was built in such a way as to reflect the fine natural and cultural heritage of California.
Besides the kiddies’ play area, the park also features statues of California’s local wildlife species. The Tomol Interpretive Play Area is situated between Linden Avenue and Dorrance Avenue.
Address: 300 Block Linden Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
7. Carpinteria Valley Museum
If you are a history buff or a historian, one of the top things to do in Carpinteria, CA, is to check out the Carpinteria Valley Museum.
The goal of the museum is to ensure that people have a much better knowledge and appreciation of this region’s great culture and history.
The Carpinteria Valley Museum provides visitors with an up-close look into the history of Carpinteria via its exhibits with three main ethnicities that the Carpinteria Valley houses.
The museum enables you to discover the history and life of the first Latin settlers, American explorers, and the Native American Chumash via properly maintained artifacts, photos, and hunting and farming equipment used in those times.
Address: 956 Maple Avenue, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
8. Palm Loft Gallery
Besides Carpinteria’s beautiful parks and beaches, this town accommodates outstanding works of art in Palm Loft Gallery.
The Palm Loft Gallery is regarded as an important destination in this town due to its many collections of artworks sourced from prominent painters and undervalued artists.
This outstanding Palm Loft Gallery gathers local artists across Santa Barbara County. Artworks to see are a combination of contemporary, traditional, and modern arts in the forms of sculptures, artistic interpretations, and paintings.
The gallery is available for visits from Friday to Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm.
Address: 410 Palm Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
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9. Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve
If you love hiking or are an avid hiker, make sure to visit the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve. It is one of the best places to visit in Carpinteria, CA.
This beautiful nature preserve is an outdoor area perched above the hilly side of the town that overlooks the entire seahorse area.
Hiking the trail is quite easy, which occupies approximately two miles and more than 50 acres of nature preserve.
Besides hiking the trails, you will also see varieties of deer, birds, and seals at the close by Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary.
In essence, this destination is highly recommendable for anyone visiting this town if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Address: 5905 Carpinteria Avenue, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
10. Linden Avenue
Linden Avenue is the main Highway in Carpinteria. The Avenue provides visitors with a relaxed feel of California via its lofty Palm trees that line the streets, beautiful shops, bicycle lanes, and streets.
Linden Avenue is cool, elegant, and warm but less dense compared to the popular Santa Barbara and Santa Monica.
Linden Avenue features plenty of modern enterprises and amenities to cater to various needs. You can check out the various food establishments such as Little Dom’s Seafood, Siam, Teddy’s By the Sea, Carp Kitchen and Grocery, Zooker’s Café, Siam Elephant, and Little Dom’s Seafood.
There are specialty shops and normal brands such as Angel’s Antiques, Rincon Design, Murphy Vinyl Shack, Macy’s Soap, Tidepools, and the Grapeseed Company.
At Nighttime, even the Avenue takes a much better look as many of its restaurants switch to being pubs and bars, producing a fascinating nightlife.
Address: 12 Linden Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013, USA
11. Carpinteria Padaro Beach Grill
After many hours of touring through the parkland beach areas, one of the top places you sure will love to visit is the Carpinteria Padaro Beach Grill. It is a great place to have dinner, with exceptional views, a fun family atmosphere, and friendly service.
They use freshly sourced ingredients in preparing their dishes. They are dedicated to providing a suitable ambiance where the Santa Barbara community can enjoy a great meal.
It does not matter if you want to taste their delicious foods, drink or have a fun time with friends and family; this place has something in store for you and should be a must-see during your visit.
Address: 3765 Santa Claus Ln, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
12. Alpacas at the Canzelle Alpacas
You can visit these endearing creatures to have a close-up look and take pictures with them. Visitors can interact closely with the Alpacas even as they wander about. There’s also a Philippine Water Buffalo called Archie and llamas.
The Canzelle Alpacas is ideally perched on the undulating Hill in the higher surrounding areas of Carpinteria.
The farm was previously used as a citrus grove managed during the 1920s by the family of Abbot until it was bought in 2002 by the London Family.
The family of London began an alpaca fur establishment which later became a famous tourist destination. They are open for visits from Friday to Sunday; visitors can tour the farm from 11 am to 5 pm.
Address: 4036 Foothill Rd, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
13. Torrey Pine
One of the top things to do in Carpinteria, CA, is to check out one of its popular landmarks, the Wardholme Torrey Pine.
Wardholme Torrey Pine in Carpinteria is the tallest in the world, with a height of 126 feet and 130 years old.
The Torrey Pine can be easily seen from far and is nestled beside Carpinteria Avenue. It is an uncommon species of pine tree.
This tree was planted in 1888 as a seedling by a man named Thomas Ward, a resident judge of Carpinteria, to decide whose Torrey pine tree would grow the biggest.
Wardholme Torrey Pine, in 1968 was recognized as the first official landmark in Carpinteria. Make sure to stop by during your tour in the town to take pictures to post on your social media accounts.
Address: Carpinteria Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
14. A-Frame Surf
Do something more adventurous by going surfing, and to have this great surfing experience, check out the A-Frame Surf.
They are a full-service rental surf shop operating in Santa Barbara, Carpinteria, and Ventura, CA. They have got you covered in everything you need to have the very best surfing experience.
A-Frame Surf is perched on the beach at the stunning Santa Claus Lane. You can find all the accessories you need, hard goods, and clothing from popular brands such as Volcom, Lost, Xcel Wetsuits, Von Zipper, Electric, RVCA, and Billabong. Reef, Hobie, and others.
They also offer Surf Lessons, a Surf Camp in summer, and various services. Their staff are skilled and experienced with every skill level and age, guests with special abilities, and first aid and CPR certified.
Address: 3785 Santa Claus Ln, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
15. Los Padres Outfitters
Los Padres Outfitter is a leading trail riding and pack operator down the Central Coast of California. This outfitter provides visitors with various services ranging from multi-day to full gourmet pack tours and trail and beach rides.
Ensure to stop by the Los Padres Outfitters for a one-of-a-kind horseback riding experience. If you have little or no experience with riding a horse, you need to worry, as there are guides to help you learn at your own pace and even more quickly.
No matter your age and skill level in horseback riding, there is a horse suitable for you to ride on. There are trail rides for visitors up to the age of 10 years. Helmets are essential for riders up to and under the age of 18 years.
Helmets are also available for adults, but it is in their place whether to put them on or not. Rides are carried out in private, and there are no mixed rides. Their rides are specially for groups of friends and families.
They have experienced and knowledgeable guides with great history and ideas about this area, making it a fun ride as you can converse with them.
Address: 3939 Foothill Rd, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
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16. Rincon Point State Beach
The Rincon Point State Beach is a famous California surfing location between Carpinteria and Highway 101.
Despite this area not having any restaurants, surfboard rentals, or shops, this destination still welcomes many surfers who find this place amazing.
Rincon Point State Beach is a popular destination amongst surfers in the United States. It is available daily for the general public from 6 am to 9 pm.
Address: Rincon Point Rd, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
17. Rincon Bike Trail
If you are a biker or a bike enthusiast, biking along the scenic Rincon Bike Trail is one of the fun things to do in Carpinteria, CA.
This destination is a paradise for every biker due to its panoramic views of Santa Barbara County’s beautiful coastline and the Pacific.
It is a 3.6-mile long bike trail, with its starting point from the southern part of Carpinteria close to Rincon Point and stretches down to Mobil Pier Road.
Part of the advantages of biking on this trail is that it provides you with incredible views of the Pacific and Channel Islands as you travel through moderately paved concrete, making it perfect for every biker.
The trail still extends to the old Highway 1, which leads you outside Carpinteria to Hobson County Park.
Address: Carpinteria, CA, United States
18. Homestead Antiques & Trading Company
If you are an antique lover, one of the best things to do in Carpinteria, CA, is to check out the beautiful antique items at the Homestead Antiques and Trading Company.
The company has been operating for three years. The Antique store shares the same similarities as two other shops on Linden Avenue: Antique Delight and Magpie.
There are lots of interesting items to select from at the store, and one thing not to miss out on while browsing through the store is the vintage glass shelves behind the store.
Their services are awesome, and their staff are readily available to assist you in picking that item you so desire.
Address: 943 Linden Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
19. Carpinteria Wellness Center
If you feel tired and worn out due to long hours of touring through Carpinteria, then make sure to head towards the Carpinteria Wellness Center to give your body a nice treat before leaving.
Carpinteria Wellness Center offers various types of massage options and chiropractic services. This establishment is locally owned and runs with a unique team of experts providing customized body treatments to rejuvenate you.
The atmosphere to meet here when you visit is serene and lovely. You can partake in their yoga classes and therapeutic massages. All of their services are geared towards improving the local community’s lifestyle.
Address: 550 Maple Ave E, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
20. ROBITAILLE
Give your tooth some delightful treats by visiting this incredible candy store called Robitaille. If you are a great fan of candies, this place should be a must-see in Carpinteria.
Robitaille is a family-owned and run establishment that produces varieties of delicious candies to satisfy your tooth cravings. At the time of the 50th Presidential Inauguration, their homemade candy was chosen as the ceremonial candy for that event.
All the brittles, chocolates, and mints are locally crafted, and no machinery is used. The candy selection in the shops is amazing, with up to 800 products. It is usually really challenging to pick what to buy as everything to see here is outstanding and eye catchy.
They have a great staff who are knowledgeable and super friendly. The store’s interior is 100% Americana.
Address: 900 Linden Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
21. Seaside Gardens
If you are looking forward to giving your home and surroundings an extra touch of beauty, then make sure to stop by the Seaside Gardens during your tour in Carpinteria, CA.
If you plan on starting a personal garden, the Seaside Gardens may have everything you need to start or take care of one.
Seaside Gardens features a broad selection of plant species, fountains, tools, pottery, bird feeders, containers, and many more.
The special thing about this 3-acre botanical garden is that it is available for people to see, so make sure to drop by.
Address: 3700 Via Real #3050, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
22. Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, Carpinteria
If you want to engage in something more fun and exciting, then make sure to visit the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club. It should make up your itinerary of what to do in Carpinteria, CA.
The Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club has been working since 1911. It is a must-see destination since it is the third operating polo facility in the United States.
This famous polo-playing field is globally known for its high-grade polo fields and has organized several international polo tournaments.
Competitions are hosted from time to time for locals, and polo classes are provided as well. The polo club is open every day from 8 am to 8 pm.
Address: 3300 Via Real, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
23. Rose Story Farm
Rose Story farm started in 1998 when they decided to raise 1000 bush roses on a half acre of their avocado and lemon farm.
The pictures they had in mind while trying to create this farm was an ancient rose farm having glowing hues of pre-1950 American and European varieties in bloom all over their 15 acres Carpinteria Valley farm.
They have been fully dedicated over the years to producing stunning, romantic, fragrant roses in luxuriant colors and shapes. You can have a close-up look at their 25,000 beautiful rose plants.
The roses to see here are of the highest quality. Ensure to purchase which beautiful rose will be perfect for your home. Their staff can also help you with whatever choice you want.
Address: 5950 Casitas Pass Rd, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
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Plan Your Trip to Carpinteria
There are numerous fascinating things to do in Carpinteria, CA that will pique any your interest.
Suppose you plan to have an exciting and rejuvenating experience on your next vacation. In that case, your sure bet is this small beautiful seaside city in California.
