This Is Why You’ll Love Arroyo Burro County Park
Known for its surrounding cliffs, sandy beaches, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, Arroyo Burro County Park is one of the most popular beaches in Santa Barbara. The locals call it Hendry’s Beach, a place where families and couples can spend time enjoying the sunshine. From birding and whale watching to fishing and swimming, Arroyo Burro County Park has something for everyone. Here’s why a trip to this beach should be on your Santa Barbara itinerary.
Spend a Day at Arroyo Burro County Park
History
If you’ve never been to Arroyo Burro, you’re probably wondering why it has two names. Local residents refer to this area as Hendry’s Beach because the nearby farmland was once the home of Scottish immigrant William Nicol Hendry. William arrived in Santa Barbara in 1872 and worked as an agricultural laborer. By 1884, he had leased over 360 acres of land in the vicinity of Arroyo Burro and was cultivating hay, oats, barley, and lima beans. The Hendry family inhabited the area until 1918, when William sold the farm and moved his family to Chapala Street in downtown Santa Barbara.
Outdoor Recreation
Today, Hendry’s Beach is an ideal destination for Santa Barbara locals and visitors alike. Dog owners come here to walk their pets, and surfers frequent the beach’s waters. Outdoor showers and restrooms are also available. Other recreational features include a grassy area with picnic tables and grills, equestrian trails, and an ecological education facility known as the Watershed Resource Center.
The Watershed Resource Center is one of the park’s coolest attractions. The building is made entirely out of recycled materials and offers programs that highlight the importance of protecting our watersheds, creeks, and ocean. It’s open every second Sunday of the month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Boathouse Restaurant
Getting hungry? With unbeatable food and panoramic views, Boathouse on Hendry’s Beach is a must-see during your visit. This restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily, but we highly recommend stopping in for brunch. You can indulge in smoked salmon eggs benedict, crab cakes, orange zest pancakes, and more. Plus, the Boathouse Bloody Mary is absolutely delicious, garnished with bacon and shrimp. Be sure to keep an eye out for passing dolphins while you eat!
Come Home to the Cheshire Cat Inn
Now that you know all about Arroyo Burro County Park, it’s time to start planning your trip to California! Our Santa Barbara bed and breakfast is just a short drive from the beach and features gorgeous accommodations and top-notch amenities. We even offer a delicious gourmet breakfast each morning of your stay. What’s better than that? Check our availability online or give us a call at (805) 569-1610 to make your reservations today. We look forward to having you!
