San Ysidro Trailhead offers rugged, moderately challenging hikes featuring river crossings, waterfalls, and ocean vistas in Santa Barbara. Visitors will find a mix of out-and-back and loop paths with limited shade and rocky terrain.
What to Expect:
🥾 Moderate to hard hiking trails with rocky stretches
🌊 Multiple river crossings and smaller waterfalls
🌅 Scenic views of ocean and nearby peaks
🐕 Dogs allowed off leash outside parking areas
🅿️ Limited free parking, mostly street parking
Important Information:
– Not wheelchair accessible
– Watch for wildlife including snakes on trails
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🌄 Morning Hikes Reward: Early morning visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for spotting wildlife and enjoying waterfalls.
🪱 Watch for Wildlife: Hikers should be cautious of snakes, especially along narrow and rocky sections of the trail.
🚗 Parking Tips: Parking is limited near the trailhead; using free street parking during weekdays improves the experience.
🌊 Waterfalls Best After Rains: Visit after recent rainfall to see the waterfalls at their fullest and enjoy refreshed creek crossings.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
San Ysidro Trailhead is praised for its beautiful, challenging hiking routes and scenic ocean views. Hikers appreciate the waterfalls and river crossings, though some mention limited parking and rocky, rough terrain as challenges. The natural landscape and wildlife encounters stand out as highlights.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
