In July, 2010 the Nude Beach Alliance reported on their website about a meeting with state park rangers, who stated that they intended to continue to operate Gaviota Beach under the long-standing Cahill Policy, which allows nudity to continue in parks with a history of nude use unless a private individual complains.
This is the alliance's recommendation if a ranger happens to show up and ask you to get dressed: "...please comply without argument. The matter cannot be resolved on the beach, but will be handled in appropriate and productive meetings with state personnel. The more we argue and fuss on the beach, the more difficulty we cause for ourselves."
Location
30 miles west of of Santa Barbara on US 101 Get a map and directions.Description
Long stretch of sand with cliffs. You can walk all the way to the State Park Beach, but it's best to stop at the railroad trestle. Oil slicks and tar balls sometimes appear on the beach - wear shoes. This stretch of coast can also be very windy, making a warm coat a necessity, no matter what you intended to wear (or not) when you left home.Who's at Gaviota Beach
Mixed crowdGaviota Beach Facilities
NoneGaviota Beach Activities
Whale watching in seasonMore Nude Beaches Within 25 Miles of Gaviota
- More Mesa: Approximately 20 miles east (south on US Hwy 101)
Nudity Laws and Gaviota Beach
In the past, complaints of nudity at Gaviota Beach have resulted in a minimum a citation of violating CCR 4322, and at most to arrests for PC 314 Indecent Exposure. PC 314 (Indecent Exposure) is listed as a sex crime in California, and carries with it upon conviction lifetime registration in their community as a sex offender.We try to report the most current information, but ultimately, the responsibility for knowing the law enforcement status at Gaviota Beach is yours.
Nude or naturist beach neophytes, please be respectful of others and read the Nude Beach and Topless Beach Etiquette guidelines before you go to a nude beach.
