About

While the name of 1000 Steps Beach may sound intimidating, this iconic Central Coast destination promises a memorable vacation adventure.

The destination is known locally by names like Thousand Steps, One Thousand Steps, and originally Camino al Mar. If climbing up and down a thousand steps sounds daunting, the good news is that there are only 157. Also, the multi-tier staircase breaks up the climbing and descending while providing idyllic picture-taking opportunities.

This remarkable beach is renowned for its striking cliffs, vibrant tide pools, and offering a blend of leisure and natural beauty.

Despite its popularity, 1000 Steps Beach maintains a tranquil vibe, providing an immersive experience with the crashing waves and surrounding beauty. Adding to this peaceful excursion is experiencing the fresh ocean breeze on your face as you head down the stairs. Add the picture-perfect backdrop and the tide pools, and it's easy to see why this destination is popular.

With its proximity to Santa Barbara, this is a go-to beach for combining a sunset followed by a delicious meal at a restaurant like Shoreline Beach Cafe.

Including this stop on your vacation itinerary is ideal for nature lovers, sightseers, and families seeking relaxation, adventure, or soaking in the sun along the Central Coast.

1000 Steps Beach: Fun Facts & Cool Features

While 1000 Steps Beach isn't rich with amenities, it has unique attributes. One notable feature is the picturesque cliffs, which provide stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, especially at sunset.

The beach also has tide pools home to various marine life, such as starfish, anemones, and crabs. Such features make it an excellent spot for families and curious minds eager to learn about the ocean.

For those seeking tranquility, the beach is often less crowded than other nearby coastal areas, making it an ideal destination for relaxation or a romantic getaway.

The beach's central location makes it perfect for combining multiple destinations daily. For example, you can combine a trip to 1000 Steps Beach with sightseeing at the Douglas Family Preserve or Hendry's Beach.

Adding 1000 Steps Beach to your Santa Barbara getaway is a no-brainer. With its tidal pools, sandy shores, and dramatic sunsets, it perfectly blends adventure and serenity.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions to 1000 Steps Beach from Santa Barbara:

Head south on State St toward E Cota St.
Turn right onto E Cota St.
Continue onto US-101 S.
Take exit 93A toward CA-192 E/State St.
Merge onto CA-192 E.
Turn right onto Coast Village Rd.
Coast Village Rd becomes San Ysidro Rd.
Turn left onto Pacific Coast Hwy.
Turn left onto Channel Dr.
Follow Channel Dr, then turn right onto Pacific Coast Hwy, and watch for the entrance to the beach access point.
Address: 1131 Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Barbara, CA 93108

Local Tips

Check tide schedules to optimize the tide pool exploration experience.
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends and holidays.
Wear good walking shoes for the steep descent and ascent.
Bring water and snacks, as nearby dining options are limited.

Staging environment