Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara water temperature today is 53°F. Is it cold? It's cold for most people, so plan on a 5/4mm fullsuit.
Water temperature refreshed hourly from a latitude-based estimate.
Pack the right rubber and you'll extend your sessions in Santa Barbara by an hour. Temps swing from upwelling lows to summer peaks, and the difference between a 3/2 and a 4/3 day can come overnight.
Heavy-duty suit with accessories required
Recommended extras: booties, gloves, hood optional
Data from El Capitan · Updated hourly
Current water temperatures at each surf spot. Temperatures can vary based on local conditions, currents, and depth.
3 spots
When a strong west swell wraps into this secluded point, El Capitan can produce 300-yard right-handers with barrel sections, but it's fickle and often flat. The take-off is steep over boulders and reef, making it best for experienced surfers.
Soft point/inside reef near the harbor with longboard-friendly lines.
A rarely surfed reef break accessed via 240 steep steps, Mesa Lane offers both lefts and rights over a rocky bottom and works best on a rising tide with a west swell. Local surfers favour this spot after work and school.
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Break types, ratings, and local tips for each beach.
When a strong west swell wraps into this secluded point, El Capitan can produce 300-yard right-handers with barrel sections, but it's fickle and often flat. The take-off is steep over boulders and reef, making it best for experienced surfers.
Soft point/inside reef near the harbor with longboard-friendly lines.
A rarely surfed reef break accessed via 240 steep steps, Mesa Lane offers both lefts and rights over a rocky bottom and works best on a rising tide with a west swell. Local surfers favour this spot after work and school.
About surfing in Santa Barbara
