One Thousand Steps
Santa Barbara, CA
One Thousand Steps is a well known local name for this stairway beach access, with real tide pools along the rocky shoreline below despite the very limited on-street parking that keeps this spot from getting too crowded. The name is an exaggeration, but the stairs down do feel like a real commitment.
The genuine tide pools and real local character are worth the stairs, though the very limited parking keeps this a spot you need some luck to visit.
How we score beachesArrive early for parking, the very limited on-street spots here fill fast and there's no dedicated lot.
Free but very limited on-street parking is available.
Stairs lead down to the rocky shoreline and tide pools.
Dogs are welcome; check posted signage for specific leash rules.
Fog is common most mornings year round, typical of the Santa Barbara coast.
More Pacific Coast beaches
Zuma Beach
Malibu, CA · Pacific Coast
A wide stretch of sand backed by the Santa Monica Mountains, with reliable swells that draw surfers year-round and plenty of room to spread out even on busy weekends.
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Known as Surf City USA, with a mile-long municipal pier, consistent breaks for surfers of every level, and a laid-back boardwalk scene along Pacific Coast Highway.
Main Beach
Laguna Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Tucked between rocky headlands, with tidepools to explore at low tide, calmer coves for swimming, and an arts-town backdrop of galleries and cafes just steps from the sand.