Notice: "7/3/2024 - Refugio State Beach is closed until further notice. Due to complete failure of an extensive culvert system, resulting in numerous sinkholes across multiple agency jurisdictions, the park will remain fully closed for repairs. All reservations through July 31 will be cancelled and affected parties will be contacted accordingly. We anticipate reopening late summer 2024."
Kayaking from Refugio to El Capitan
The protected waters in the wave shadow of the Channel Islands and the south facing beaches, Refugio Beach and El Capitan Beach are popular locations for launching kayaks. The 3-mile trip between the two beaches is a classic paddle. Visitors often encounter sea lions, seals, dolphins, and a myriad of sea birds. A number of private companies offer guided trips, and Refugio State Beach has lifeguard led kayak trips.
Santa Barbara Adventure Company
Refugio State Beach kayaking tours, 3-mile paddles along the coast with included lunch stop at a secluded beach. About 5 hours. Children 8-9 usually ride in tandem kayak with parent. Older children can usually handle their own kayak.
Santa Barbara Adventure Company
The Aniso Trail: Refugio State Beach to El Capitan State Beach
The Aniso Trail is a 3-mile-long paved bicycling and walking path that connects Refugio State Beach with El Capitan State Beach. The rolling trail follows the bluffs between the two beaches, offering wonderful views of the coast and ocean. At several points travelers can divert to explore interesting places along the beach.
During low tides it is possible to walk long stretches of the beach and rocky coast between the two parks. Hikers, of course, need to be aware of the tides to avoid being trapped against a rocky cliff by the waves.
Fishing along the Coast from Refugio Beach to El Capitan Beach
Surf fishermen along the sand and rock coast from Refugio Beach to El Capitan Beach have successful days as long as they can avoid getting hung up in the kelp too much. Sandworms have proven to be a good bait to use in the area. Other popular baits are cut squid, shrimp, and rubber swim baits. At El Capitan beach many anglers like the section from directly in front of the day-use parking lot west to the park boundary.
Fishing at Refugio Beach
Kayak Fishing
Fishing from kayaks is a good way to get out where other anglers can't reach. The kelp beds around Refugio Beach can produce rockfish, calicos, cabezons, and even halibut. A popular kayak fishing spot is the cove around the point at El Capitan Beach.
Refugio Junior Lifeguards - 2024
Children between the ages of 7 and 17 can participate in the Refugio Junior Lifeguard Program offered every summer. Participants learn about ocean safety and environmental education. During the 3-week long sessions they learn lifesaving skills, first aid, and CPR. They also develop their physical fitness and learn ocean recreation skills.
Among the recreational activities included in previous year's sessions were a sandcastle contest, and Friday field trips. Similar activities are planned for coming years.
Tryouts
All new applicants for Refugio Junior Lifeguards must pass a tryout evaluation of each child's swimming skills and confidence in the water before they can participate in the program. Tryouts are usually held at various dates in May. Enrollment for 2024 opens in April. Check their website as more details become available.
Refugio Junior Lifeguards
2024 Junior Lifeguard Session
One 4-week long session for 2024:
July 8 to August 2, 2024
