Ellwood Mesa Open Space & Sperling Preserve

Open

Closed

$

$

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Goleta

β€’

fine-dining

4.8
A coastal preserve in Goleta with flat loop trails, eucalyptus forests, and scenic ocean bluffs ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and dog walking.

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fine-dining

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πŸ“

Ellwood Mesa Open Space & Sperling Preserve

Goleta

$

Explore easy, scenic trails through eucalyptus forests and ocean bluffs at Ellwood Mesa Preserve, perfect for hiking, biking, birdwatching, and dog walking.

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About
4.8
(
28
)

Ellwood Mesa Open Space & Sperling Preserve offers flat, easy loop trails that wind through eucalyptus forests and stretch to ocean cliffs with stunning coastal views. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, birdwatching, and dog walking, with easy parking and portable restrooms available.

What to Expect:

    🌿 Easy loop trails through coastal habitat
    🐦 Excellent birdwatching opportunities
    πŸ• Very dog-friendly with on-leash rules
    🏞️ Scenic overlooks at Potters Point cliffs
    🚢 Trails suitable for kids and all skill levels

Important Information:

    – Free parking available but limited
    – Portable restrooms onsite
    – Preserve closes at sunset; no gates observed
    – Trails can be dusty and dry in late summer

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πŸ”Š
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πŸ“ Local Insights

πŸŒ… Sunset Views: The bluffs at Potters Point offer spectacular sunset vistas over the Pacificβ€”ideal for late afternoon visits.

🐦 Birdwatching Hotspot: Bring binoculars to catch local bird species in the eucalyptus forest and coastal areas.

πŸ• Dog Friendly But On-Leash: Dogs are welcome but must be leashed to protect wildlife and other visitors.

πŸš— Arrive Early on Weekends: Parking is free but limited; early arrival helps secure a spot and avoid crowds.

⏰ Hours

Monday: Sunrise to Sunset

Tuesday: Sunrise to Sunset

Wednesday: Sunrise to Sunset

Thursday: Sunrise to Sunset

Friday: Sunrise to Sunset

Saturday: Sunrise to Sunset

Sunday: Sunrise to Sunset

πŸ‘‰ Best For

Hikers, families, dog walkers, birdwatchers, nature lovers

Ellwood Mesa Open Space & Sperling Preserve

7729 Hollister Ave
,
Goleta
,
CA
93117

Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Visitors consistently praise the preserve for its peaceful, scenic hiking trails with beautiful ocean views and well-maintained paths. The area is loved for its accessibility, dog-friendliness, and birdwatching. Some note dry and dusty conditions in late summer and advise arriving early due to limited parking.

Last updated on

January 9th, 2026

From The preserve

Standout Dishes

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The Selection

Accommodations

Course Stats

Angler’s Offerings

What You'll Find

Loop Trails; Coastal Bluffs; Eucalyptus Forest; Picnic Areas; Portable Restrooms; Dog-Friendly Areas; On-Leash Policy; Free Parking; Birdwatching; Biking; Hiking; Jogging; Walking; Kid-Friendly Trails

πŸ“† Best Times to Visit

Visit early morning or late afternoon for quiet trails and stunning sunset views; weekends are busier, so arrive early for parking.
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