The best cycling routes around Isla Vista
4.7
(35)
644
riders
44
rides
Touring cycling routes around Isla Vista are characterized by a coastal setting, featuring rugged shorelines, bluffs, and beaches. The region offers a network of multi-use trails that traverse scenic bluffs, sandy areas, and eucalyptus groves. Its unique geography, nestled between mountain ranges and the Pacific Ocean, provides varied terrain with generally gentle elevations suitable for cycling. The area is known for its flat, packed-earth trails and well-paved surfaces, making it accessible for various cycling abilities.
Best touring cycling routes aroundβ¦
Last updated: June 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
9
riders
31.9km
01:52
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
46
riders
29.2km
01:40
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(6)
50
riders
46.4km
02:49
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
25.9km
01:30
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
riders
40.0km
02:50
730m
730m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a county run park located a stone's throw away from the University of California Santa Barbara. The park features a long wooden pier, plenty of sand, picnic benches, shady trees, cafΓ© and public toilets.
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Campus Point Beach is on the east side of Goleta Point at the University of California Santa Barbara campus. Students and surfers call the area east of the point Campus Point and the area west of the point Depressions. Campus Point Beach has two separate sandy beach areas. One is in front of the Campus Lagoon and the other is below the bluffs of the main campus. This latter beach is narrow at high tide and is shaded in the afternoons. To reach the beach below the steep bluff curve around the buildings or use the stairwell at the other end of the parking lot. From here you can cruise with fat tires on the beach or along the bluff to Goleta Beach Park or find a path for rolling around UCSB Lagoon directly behind Campus Point Beach.
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A portion of the shore of Goleta Bay is managed by the County of Santa Barbara, as the Goleta Beach County Park. The beach itself is partly man-made as sand was spread onto an existing sandspit in 1945. In 1949, the Federal Government granted Goleta Beach Park to Santa Barbara County. In 1953, the County granted the Park to the State of California. The State granted it back to the County in 1970. Known for its long fishing pier and sunbathing beaches, these 29 acres are often a destination for bicyclists on the area's paved trail system. Between the lively restaurant and BBQ picnic areas are volleyball, horseshoes, children's playgrounds, and free beach wheelchairs. The 1,500-foot pier in Goleta Beach County Park provides boaters, fishermen, and families out for a stroll, an engaging view of the Pacific coast. The Goleta Pier boat launch is available for public use on weekends and holidays. Paddle Sports Center is an authorized concessionaire that provides Kayaks, Stand-Up Paddle Board Rentals, Lessons, and Tours from Goleta Beach County Park. Open Seasonally from 10 am to 6 pm. https://www.countyofsb.org/813/Goleta-Beach-Park
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Emanating from the lush Goleta Slough Ecological Reserve wetland, the tidal stream here merges with Atascadero Creek before flowing into the Pacific
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Goleta Beach Park is a county run beach next to the University of California Santa Barbara. The park has a long sandy beach separated by a protective boulder barrier to keep the winter waves from eating away the beach. It offers a beachside cafe & bar, restrooms, volley ball courts, horseshoes, and plenty of picnic tables with grills.
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A car-free bike trail branches off Modoc Rd, which is the Pacific Coastal Bike Route, to a safe bike bridge across the US 101 freeway.
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Great panoramic views from the overlook terrace a few dozen yards past the turnoff with access to the Lagoon Rd and beach access.
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The excellent dedicated paved Maria Ygnacio Bike Rout branches perpendicularly north off the Coastal Bike Route. A great connection going inlands along Maria Ygnacio Creek.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Isla Vista?
There are nearly 50 touring cycling routes around Isla Vista, offering a diverse range of experiences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 500 times, with an average rating of 5.0 stars, indicating high satisfaction among cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Isla Vista?
Isla Vista's touring cycling routes feature a mix of coastal bluffs, rugged shorelines, and beaches, often with stunning ocean views. You'll also find multi-use trails traversing sandy areas and eucalyptus groves. The terrain generally has gentle elevations, with many routes offering flat, packed-earth paths and well-paved surfaces suitable for various cycling abilities.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Isla Vista?
Yes, Isla Vista offers many easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. Over 30 routes are classified as easy. A great option is the Obern Trail β Goleta Beach County Park loop from North Campus Open Space, which is 18 miles long and features gentle terrain, connecting scenic areas like Goleta Beach County Park.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Isla Vista?
Many touring cycling routes in Isla Vista are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Obern Trail Loop is a popular 19.8-mile circular route that offers a peaceful journey through countryside and oceanside neighborhoods.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural attractions I can see along the touring cycling routes?
Isla Vista's routes offer numerous scenic spots. You can enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains from parks like Sea Lookout Park. Along the trails, you might encounter coastal bluffs, sandy beaches such as Goleta Beach County Park, and the unique Ellwood Butterfly Grove, home to monarch butterflies during certain seasons. The Lagoon and Beach at Campus Point also offers beautiful coastal scenery.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Isla Vista?
Isla Vista benefits from a balmy climate, making it suitable for touring cycling year-round. However, the spring and fall months often provide the most comfortable temperatures and pleasant conditions. The Ellwood Butterfly Grove is particularly remarkable during certain seasons when monarch butterflies are present.
Are there any routes that are particularly dog-friendly?
While specific routes aren't designated 'dog-friendly' in the data, many multi-use trails in Isla Vista, especially those through natural preserves like Ellwood Mesa, are popular for walking and biking. It's always best to check local regulations for specific trails regarding dogs, and ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Isla Vista?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many parks and access points along the coast and near multi-use trails offer parking facilities. For routes starting near the University of California, Santa Barbara, or Goleta, you may find designated parking areas, but it's advisable to check specific starting points for the most convenient options.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the cycling routes?
Isla Vista, being a vibrant community, has various amenities. While specific cafes directly on every trail are not listed, many routes pass through or near residential and commercial areas where you can find cafes, restaurants, and picnic spots. Parks like Sea Lookout Park and Camino Pescadero Park offer picnic tables and benches, ideal for a break.
What is a good moderate touring cycling route for someone looking for a bit more challenge?
For a moderate challenge, consider the Obern Trail β Modoc Road Multi-use Bike Path loop from Goleta. This 28.8-mile route leads through coastal bluffs and multi-use paths, offering more elevation gain than the easier coastal rides and typically takes around 2 hours 48 minutes to complete.
Can I connect to other areas or longer routes from Isla Vista?
Yes, Isla Vista's cycling network connects to broader regional trails. Routes like the Santa Barbara Harbor β Obern Trail loop from Goleta demonstrate how you can extend your ride to explore areas further afield, such as Santa Barbara Harbor, offering longer distances and varied scenery.
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