Description
General information about the beach
Arroyo Burro Beach, also known as Hendry's Beach, is a popular spot among dog owners thanks to its dog-friendly policy. It has a restaurant, dog showers, and scenic cliffs, as well as calm water for swimming.
Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
15 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
mixed
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 480 m
Frequently asked questions
Arroyo Burro Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +15.0°C, warms up to +17.8°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Arroyo Burro Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Arroyo Burro Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 15 metres from the shore. Bottom — mixed. It is recommended to bring aqua shoes — parts of the bottom have rocks or corals. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Arroyo Burro Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 1 480 metres.
Arroyo Burro Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in July, August. It ends in September, October. The best month for a holiday is August. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Arroyo Burro Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Arroyo Burro Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sharks, stingrays, jellyfish. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Arroyo Burro Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Arroyo Burro Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Arroyo Burro Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: The Boathouse at Hendry-s Beach, Snack Bar. Cuisines available: Seafood, American. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Arroyo Burro Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Dog leash.
Arroyo Burro Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning there are fewer people and dogs. In the evening — beautiful sunsets.
Arroyo Burro Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Off-leash dogs are only allowed east of the creek mouth. In the rest of the beach — on-leash only.
Arroyo Burro Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Arroyo Burro Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for dog owners thanks to the off-leash area. Suitable for families with children, surfers and lovers of peaceful nature holidays. Not suitable for those seeking warm water for swimming.
Arroyo Burro Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The primary off-leash dog beach in Santa Barbara. Scenic location at the foot of towering cliffs with Pacific Ocean views. The Boathouse restaurant right on the beach.
Arroyo Burro Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Off-leash dog beach, Scenic cliffs, Golden sand, Beachfront restaurant, Free parking, Surfing. Cons: Cool water, Rocky seabed in some areas, Can be crowded, Parking fills early, No volleyball courts.
Arroyo Burro Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Douglas Family Preserve, Santa Barbara, Leadbetter Beach. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Arroyo Burro Beach: how do I get to the city of Santa Barbara?
The beach is located near the city of Santa Barbara. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Santa Barbara.