Coasts and Canyons: Santa Barbara Beach Camping & Hiking

May 30 - Jun 01, 2025

$130 students / $250 non-students

Just a short trip from San Luis Obispo, experience the best of Santa Barbara’s natural beauty with a perfect blend of coastal exploration and scenic hikes. Wander along rugged shorelines, trek through canyons with stunning sea-to-sky views, and unwind at camp with delicious meals under the stars. This trip is all about breathtaking landscapes, great company, and the simple joy of adventure.

 

 

Register Mar. 10

 

Skill Level: Mild

Activity Level: Beginner

Trip Highlights

  • Scenic Hikes: Explore breathtaking trails with sweeping sea-to-sky views.
  • Wildlife Watching: Encounter deer, hawks, and coastal creatures along your journey.
  • Golden Hour & Stargazing: Hike at sunset and relax by the campfire beneath a starlit sky.
  • Beach Time: Soak up the serene beauty of the beach with waves crashing at your feet.
  • Campfire Gatherings: Enjoy delicious meals and stories shared around the fire.
  • Building Connections: Forge meaningful friendships while immersed in nature’s wonders.

Details

  • Depart near the listed time, drive to Santa Barbara coastal campsite location with a stop for dinner, and set up camp.
  • Activities include exploring tide pools, visiting a monarch butterfly grove, observing Hearst Castle zebras, and viewing elephant seals.
  • Enjoy meals, a campfire gathering, and return on Sunday by the listed time.

What's Included

  • Transportation to and from campus.
  • Tents, group gear, cooking gear, 5 meals, first aid kits.
  • Sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and headlamps.
  • Beginner instruction in camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

What to Bring

  • Warm layers, hikable shoes, clothes, personal snacks, medication, sun protection.
  • An extensive gear list will be provided at the mandatory pre-trip meeting. Trip leaders will contact participants in advance.
Need Rental Equipment?

The Poly Escapes Rental Center at the Cal Poly Recreation Center has the gear you need for your next adventure! Explore our selection online, then visit the Rental Center to equip your trip.

Learn More