If you’re dreaming of beach camping with your toes in the sand and your RV backed up to the sound of crashing waves, it’s time to put Jalama Beach camping on your radar. Tucked away along California’s Central Coast, about an hour west of Santa Barbara, this hidden gem is part of Jalama County Beach Park, and it’s got all the salty air, sandy feet, and unplugged vibes you didn’t know you were craving.
It’s remote. It’s rustic. It’s ridiculously scenic. And it’s the kind of place where the sunset makes you gasp out loud. Yep, we’re officially obsessed.
Where the Road Ends (Literally)
Part of what makes Jalama Beach camping so epic is that it feels like you’ve truly escaped. Like… really escaped. No traffic noise, no city lights—just you, the ocean, and maybe a curious seagull or two eyeballing your snacks.
Getting to Jalama is half the adventure. When you veer off Highway 1 near Lompoc, a quirky little town that’s worth a quick stop. It’s your last chance to fill up the tank, grab groceries, or restock the marshmallow stash. Yes, there’s a small store at the campground—but it’s always smart to come prepared and it definitely saves you some money.
From Lompoc, the real adventure begins. You’ll hit a narrow, winding 14-mile road that snakes through rolling hills, wide-open pastures, and ranchland that looks straight out of an old Western. It’s one of those drives where you’ll find yourself slowing down just to take it all in. Hawks glide overhead, the golden grass ripples in the wind, and then—boom—you round a bend and the Pacific Ocean explodes into view.
This is where the road literally ends. There’s no passing through, no shortcut to somewhere else. You’ve arrived at a secret treasure where unplugging isn’t a challenge, it’s just what happens. And honestly? You won’t want it any other way.
Jalama Beach Camping Sites: Front-Row Seats to the Ocean
This place has a vibe. It’s the kind of campground where people bring their surfboards, their dogs, their kids, and their patience (no cell service here, folks). Whether you’re pitching a tent, pulling in with your RV, or booking one of the cozy beachfront cabins, Jalama has a little something for every kind of camper.
There are over 100 campsites at Jalama Beach, and many of them offer absolutely amazing ocean views. If you’re lucky (or plan ahead), you can snag a beachfront site—literally steps from the sand. If you prefer a bit more comfort, you can pitch up at one of the 31 electric hookup spots for your RV.
Don’t want to rough it at all? Check in to one of Jalama’s adorable cabins.There’s seven in total and each has its own unique charm. Each cabin is fully equipped with kitchenettes and sleeps up to six, so you can still enjoy the beach bonfire experience without giving up your mattress and morning coffee maker.
If you’re camping with a big crew, check out the group campsites—some can accommodate up to 40 people and eight vehicles. Hello, family reunion with a sea breeze.
We stayed in one of the electric hook-up sites, and even though we were not able to snag a front row beach view spot (they were booked up), we were only 1 row away from the beach. Still, we did have some dreamy ocean views from multiple windows in our RV (including our bedroom!). Being so close to the beach, we were able to open the windows every night and listen to the sound of the waves. Now that’s the right way to fall asleep when you are camping at the beach!
The Perks: Simple, but Sweet
One of the best parts about Jalama Beach camping? They keep it simple, but thoughtful. You’ve got your basics—clean restrooms, coin-operated showers (don’t forget your quarters!), picnic tables, fire rings, and even a little playground for the kids to burn off their s’mores-fueled energy. It’s not fancy, but it hits all the right notes.
And then there’s the Jalama Beach Grill. Locals will tell you the “World Famous Jalama Burger” is reason enough to come here, and honestly… they’re not wrong. Add a cup of their rich clam chowder or a slice of homemade apple cake, and you’ve got a full-blown beach meal worthy of a slow, sandy afternoon.
What really impressed us was how much care they’ve put into making the place accessible. Santa Barbara County Parks offers a free beach wheelchair on-site, which is amazing for folks who want to get closer to the waves without the hassle. Just check in with a lifeguard or ranger when you arrive—they’ll help you out.
And now for one of our absolute must-haves: dogs are welcome! (Seriously, it’s a dealbreaker for us—our pup Hana is all in on the camping life.) Dogs are allowed in day-use areas and campsites, including basic, hookup, and group sites. Just no pups in the cabins, unfortunately. Make sure you’ve got a leash (6 feet or shorter), poop bags, and a copy of that rabies vax. Oh—and don’t even think about leaving them unattended. This park loves dogs, but only the well-behaved, non-yappy kind. Fair enough!
All in all, the vibe is relaxed, inclusive, and down-to-earth—exactly what we’re after when we’re trying to unplug and let nature do its thing.
No Cell, No Wi-Fi… And That’s the Point
Let’s just be clear—this is not a “work from beach” kind of campground. There’s no Wi-Fi, and your phone signal will drop off long before you get to the beach. But that’s what makes it perfect. You’ll actually talk to your fellow campers. You’ll sit by the fire instead of scrolling. You might even forget what day it is.
Need to make a call? There are payphones (yes, really!) and a signal pull-off about 9 miles up the road. But honestly, we vote for going full unplugged mode.
Things to Do at Jalama Beach Camping & RV Site
The beauty of Jalama Beach Camping is how it invites you to slow down. Spend your days beachcombing, napping in a hammock, or soaking in the coastal views. The waves here are great for surfing, and you’ll often spot paddleboarders and sea kayakers gliding along the shoreline.
Fishing is a big deal here, too. Bring your gear and try your luck with bass or halibut right from the shore. And if you’re lucky, you might spot gray whales migrating past in the spring or fall.
For nature lovers, Jalama Creek runs through the park and connects to the larger Dangermond Preserve nearby. It’s home to steelhead trout and a great spot for a quiet stroll or nature journaling with the kids.
Evenings are best spent around a campfire, roasting marshmallows and watching the stars come out one by one. It’s the kind of night that makes you forget about emails and to-do lists—and maybe wish you never had to leave.
Nearby Adventures Worth the Drive
While Jalama Beach has plenty to keep you blissfully beached-out, it’s worth knowing there’s a whole lot more to explore just a short drive away. Whether you’re craving wide-open dunes, charming little beach towns, or a detour into wine country, there’s a little something for everyone nearby. Some of our favorites include:
About 30 minutes north, this place is like stepping onto a different planet—in the best way. Think towering sand dunes rolling all the way to the shoreline, with hardly another soul in sight. It’s serene, surreal, and ridiculously photogenic. Bring your camera and your sense of wonder.
Surf Beach is small but full of coastal charm. Tucked next to an old-school Amtrak station, this haven gives off big nostalgic California vibes. The waves are mellow, the beach is peaceful, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a train gliding by in the distance like something out of a movie. It’s quiet, romantic, and a bit magical. Just note: no dogs, no fishing (it’s part of a marine reserve), and surfing/bodyboarding aren’t recommended due to strong currents and past shark activity.
- Lompoc’s Murals + Space History
If you stopped in Lompoc for supplies (smart move!), it’s worth taking a stroll through town. Lompoc is known for its colorful murals scattered around downtown—perfect for a casual walking tour. And if you’re a space nerd (no shame!), check out nearby Vandenberg Space Force Base, which sometimes hosts rocket launches visible from the beach.
Near the mouth of the Santa Ynez River lies this calm, estuary vibe beach—fantastic for birdwatchers and families alike. You won’t find waves here, but you will find tranquility, wildlife, and great picnic spots.
A little south of Lompoc, Gaviota packs a punch with its pier, hot springs, and solid ocean-view hiking. Swimming and fishing are popular here, and it’s a neat natural break from sandy beaches.
Just six miles inland, this place protects wild horses and burros roaming free. Their guided tours offer a rare chance to see these majestic animals up close—and support a great cause while you’re at it.
Around a 20‑minute drive from Jalama, this restored 18th‑century mission allows you to wander through beautifully preserved adobe structures and lovely trails. A nice historical detour after a few days of beach life.
A 100-foot horsetail waterfall tucked behind a sandstone cliff—perfect for a quick (and scenic) hike. The trail is short, shaded, and kid-friendly, winding through lush forest with the peaceful sound of water guiding you along. It’s a great spot for a picnic or just to stretch your legs and soak up some nature before heading back to the beach.
Rates & Reservations
Camping here is popular, so you’ll want to reserve your spot early—especially for weekends or holidays. Campsites run about $25–$30 per night, with additional charges for electric hookups or extra vehicles. Cabins start around $150/night and can go up depending on the season. Group sites are around $250–$280 per weekend, plus a small booking fee.
There’s a two-night minimum on weekends and a three-night minimum on holiday weekends, so plan accordingly. You can book online or call the Santa Barbara County Parks office Monday through Friday.
What to Pack for Jalama Beach Camping
The weather here can shift quickly and it can get super windy. Bring warm layers, even in summer, and a sturdy windbreaker. You’ll also want:
- Quarters for the showers (if you’d rather preserve the water in your RV tank)
- Extra drinking water
- Beach chairs & towels
- Firewood or charcoal
- Sunscreen, bug spray, and basic first-aid
- Flashlight or lantern for night walks
- Fishing or surf gear if that’s your thing
Oh—and don’t forget the marshmallows. Obviously.
Worried you might forget something? Just grab our free downloadable beach camping checklist here so you don’t forget the essentials (or the snacks).
Final Thoughts: Is Jalama Beach Camping Worth the Drive?
Absolutely. Jalama Beach Camping is the kind of low-key, high-reward getaway that feels like a secret. It’s not fancy. It’s not fast. But it is real—and genuinely peaceful.
Each day we spent relaxing on the beach, swimming or going for long walks. And we especially loved that Hana could come with us and run and play on the beach too (since the beach is her happy place!). It was so wonderful to disconnect, read a book, go for walks, play games and just chat.
And every evening after dinner we made a point to walk over to the ocean and find a seat to watch the sunset. Then we’d return to our campsite to enjoy a campfire under the stars – all while still being able to hear the ocean in the background. What a perfect evening soundtrack!
So pack the RV, grab your besties (or the dog), and hit the road to the coast. Whether you’re watching whales, stargazing by the fire, or just enjoying your burger with a side of ocean breeze, Jalama County Beach Park has a way of making you feel like you’ve truly escaped. And isn’t that what beach camping is all about?
