Overview:
Rincon Point State Beach is a must-stop destination for any van lifer who’s a surfer and traveling up or down the Southern California coast. Rincon is actually a separate unit of Carpinteria State Beach located at Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties’ border. It’s a public beach right next to the private gated community of Rincon Point. This is a popular surfing spot for the right-hand waves that break around the point’s east side. There’s easy access to the point from two parking lots on either side of the point. Rincon is a destination no surfer can miss.
Adventure:
Rincon Beach is a narrow rock and sand beach that encompasses Rincon Point. The surf spot is located at the Ventura and Santa Barbara County line. Also known as the “Queen of the Coast,” Rincon is one of the most famous surf spots in Southern California. A gated residential community occupies most of the Rincon point beachfront. However, public access is provided at parking lots on both sides of the gated community, with restrooms and a picnic area in the upper parking lot, Rincon Beach Park.
Directions:
Rincon Beach Park is 3 miles east of Carpinteria adjacent to the Santa Barbara/Ventura county line. From Highway 101 take the Bates Road turn-off south to the park entrance.
References and Links:
Zuma Beach
A van or RV trip to Malibu isn’t complete without a walk along the famous Zuma Beach. The beach is 1.8 miles long and has actual parking right up to the beach. The beach includes food stands, restrooms, restaurants, showers, and volleyball courts. Zuma Beach makes a wonderful place to park the van and spend the day surfing, paddle boarding, or just lounging around watching the scenery.
Malibu Pier
No trip to Southern California is complete without a stopover at the Malibu Pier. The pier is a historic landmark located in the heart of California’s surf culture. The pier has a festive atmosphere of good food and fun. It’s a great place to spend the day.
