A small but exceptionally mighty gem on the Pacific coast, Carpinteria, CA, is a must-visit getaway for both California locals and out-of-towners alike. Home to just over 10,000 people, this charming seaside town offers more than enough to do for a day, a weekend, or an extended visit.
Located in the center of it all is Carpinteria Train Station, a quaint little stop just a couple of hours north of Los Angeles. Disembark the Pacific Surfliner here, and you’ll be greeted with the salty smell of ocean air, the soothing sound of the waves, and a sea of friendly locals itching to show you a good time.
But don’t let the laid-back vibe of this small city fool you! There’s plenty to do here, even if you don’t have a car. Keep reading for a roundup of some of the best Carpinteria shops, sights, and spots to eat and drink.
Things to Do Near Carpinteria Train Station
Conveniently, the Pacific Surfliner drops you off just steps away from some of the top attractions in town. And if you’re willing to book a ride or take a bus, you can access an even wider array of activities and events.
Within Walking Distance
One of the best things to do in Carpinteria is to head to the coast. Carpinteria City Beach is extremely accessible to Pacific Surfliner riders—the sandy shores are only a 10-minute walk from the station. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the diverse local marine life. In Carpinteria, you can see anything from seals sunning themselves to seabirds riding the breeze. Oh, and you can swim, too!
Beyond the many Carpinteria beaches, you’ll find the fascinating Carpinteria Valley Museum of History. Perfect for anyone who wants to learn about the city’s storied past, the museum is also just a 10-minute walk from the train station.
After strolling around town, treat yourself to a well-deserved meal. Carpinteria is home to a host of delicious dining options, including:
- Little Dom’s Seafood – When the ocean is this close, it would be a crime not to sample the catch of the day. Mere steps from the station, you can enjoy fresh oysters, shrimp, salmon, and more tantalizing seafood, along with a selection of fan-favorite apps and ice-cold drinks.
- Brass Bird Coffee & Kitchen – Whether you need a shot of espresso, a fresh-baked pastry, or a lip-smacking-good sandwich, Brass Bird delivers. This bright and airy space is the perfect spot to fuel up for the rest of your day.
- Island Brewing Company – Since 2001, this loved-by-locals craft brewery has been producing award-winning beers. Come for a cold one, and stay for the sunny patio, food trucks, and live music!
Finally, if you happen to be in town in October, you can’t miss the California Avocado Festival. Every year, enthusiasts travel from all over to celebrate this tasty green fruit (yes, it’s a fruit) with local food, live music, contests, and more.
A Short Rideshare Away
Once you’ve had your fill of the Carpinteria restaurants within walking distance, it’s time to set your sights further afield. All you need is a ridesharing app—Uber or Lyft will do—and you can reach all kinds of destinations along the coast.
Here are some of the most fascinating spots to consider for a quick trip:
- The Ocean View Farm – The owners of this picturesque farm grow organic coffee, citrus, and avocados. They also offer educational tours of the property on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. If you’re looking for a fun-filled family activity, make sure to add this idyllic stop to your list.
- Canzelle Alpacas – For a double dose of the simple life, head to Canzelle Alpacas next. At this fully functioning farm, visitors can meet (and pet!) a herd of friendly, well-trained alpacas.
- Tar Pits Park – Looking for something more unique? The Carpinteria tar pits may be right up your alley. Wander winding trails along the shore as you search for the rare asphalt lakes that give this park its name. As a bonus, the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary is just a short stroll away.
- Hiking opportunities – There are dozens of scenic hiking trails that leave from Carpinteria or places close by. With the right shoes and a few hours, you can climb the hills behind the city for a sprawling view of the Pacific. Popular hikes include the eight-mile Franklin Trail and the walk through Toro Canyon Park.
Weekend Trip Ideas
If you plan to linger in the area for a few days, you’re in luck. Carpinteria and its surroundings are chock-full of stunning views and exciting adventures. Ask any local, and they’ll probably point you toward one of these memorable experiences:
- Visit Ojai – Nestled in the mountains away from the ocean, Ojai, California, is a gorgeous little city full of fun and funky shops and galleries. You can also golf, hike, and search for local wildlife at the Ojai Meadows Preserve.
- Ride the waves – Surfing spots are a dime a dozen on this part of the coast. At Rincon Beach Park, you can pass a day watching surfers hang ten—or grab a board and try for yourself.
- Go wine tasting – While there are a few wineries a short drive from Carpinteria, you’ll enjoy more options if you venture a bit further. From the idyllic vineyards of Old Creek Ranch & Winery to the chic interior of the Folded Hills Montecito Tasting Room, there’s no shortage of reds, whites, and rosés to enjoy. Some wineries even offer on-site lodging!
You can also hop aboard the Pacific Surfliner and take a quick trip to a number of nearby destinations, such as:
Station Information: Carpinteria Train Station
Station Amenities
Carpinteria Train Station keeps it simple. It’s designed as an outdoor platform with a covered shelter, so you won’t find any snacks, kiosks, or ticketing staff.
However, with all the amenities you could possibly need within walking distance, you’ll never go without.
Hours of Operation
As there are no ticketing services, this station doesn’t have set hours of operation.
Parking
If Carpinteria is the beginning of your journey, you can easily park your car nearby and walk to the platform. The train station features both same-day (free for two hours) and overnight parking.
Drivers will find accessible spaces and electric car charging stations.
Amtrak Train Connections
Carpinteria Train Station is one of many stops on the Pacific Surfliner train line, a coastal journey that stretches from San Diego to San Luis Obispo. The Pacific Surfliner also stops in Los Angeles, Anaheim, and other desirable destinations.
Local Transit Options
Arriving in Carpinteria without wheels of your own? No problem. Pacific Surfliner passengers can often take buses and shuttles for free, thanks to Amtrak’s partnerships with local transit providers. Simply show your Amtrak ticket to the bus driver for a free day of travel.
After disembarking at Carpinteria Train Station, you can board a Line 20 bus toward Santa Barbara for stops along the coast.
Experience Everything Carpinteria Has to Offer
Between the fresh Pacific seafood, the stunning views, and the countless opportunities for out-of-town adventures, Carpinteria is an incredible place to explore. And the Carpinteria Train Station is your ideal starting point.
Book your journey to or from Carpinteria with Pacific Surfliner and experience the coast from a whole new point of view.