Winter Beach Adventures in Lompoc

When you think of prime beach season, winter probably isn’t what you had in mind. With winter storms and changing tides working together to uncover hidden shipwrecks, reefs and tidepools, the winter months are the ideal time to enjoy Lompoc beaches in a whole new way.

Here is our guide to exploring beaches in Lompoc during the winter.

Jalama Beach

The surge in swells during the winter slowly scrape the sand away, uncovering an expansive layer of rock and reef that forms natural tidepools. These pools are home to a vast array of plants and animals like octopuses, sea slugs, sea stars, crabs and more!

People also enjoy; swimming, biking, hiking, surfing, camping, sea shell hunting and more at this picturesque beach.

Getting there

The best way to get to Jalama Beach is to take a 30-minute drive from Lompoc down Jalama Road by car. Along the way, you will be surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards and working ranches.

Parking at the beach is $10 per day.

Facilities and Amenities

Jalama Beach is fully equipped with all the amenities you could need during your trip. Refuel with world famous Jalama burger or other delicious snacks at Jalama Beach Store and Grill.  Grab some groceries or sunscreen at the convenience store or bring some friends and hangout at the picnic tables and fire pits.

Other amenities include:

• Bathrooms
• Hot showers
• Lifeguards (only during summer months)
• Playground
• Wheelchairs

Dogs are welcome on the beach for a nominal $3 charge and must always be kept on a leash.

Surf Beach

The swells that make Jalama a tide pooling wonderland uncover a different kind of magic at Surf Beach.

Over 110 years ago, the largest wooden merchant ship “Sybil Marston” was sunk by the punishing waves and currents off the coast of Lompoc. The remains of the Sybil Marston washed up on the shores of what is now Surf Beach and over time, was covered by sand.

On the occasional winter, when conditions are ideal, the wreckage is uncovered and ready to be explored.

Getting there

Surf Beach is open from September-March and is accessible by car and the local Amtrak station for visitors who want to make a day trip and skip the traffic.

The shipwreck is located about a mile down from the beach entrance.

Parking at Surf Beach is free.

Amenities

Surf Beach has restrooms onsite. No animals are allowed on the beach.