El Capitan Canyon Exterior photoEl Capitan Canyon Exterior photoEl Capitan Canyon Exterior photo
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From286US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the camping

11560 Calle Real, Capitan, California, United States, 93117
-
Close to El Capitan State Beach
Very good
7.9
/10
3.8
4.3
/5

El Capitan Canyon - A luxury camping resort with cedar cabins, safari tents, and yurts near the Gaviota Coast

El Capitan Canyon provides a 4-star resort camping experience with cedar cabins, safari tents, and yurts set among 142 hectares of oak and sycamore trees along El Capitan Creek. Accommodations include kitchenettes with microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers, as well as private picnic tables and firepits with removable grills. The Canyon Market and Deli serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring regional ingredients, barbecue kits, and local wines. Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking trails, stargazing, llama farm visits, and seasonal events like wine tastings and concerts. The resort is located 25 km from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport, with easy access via Highway 101. El Capitan Canyon offers Wi-Fi, a heated pool, and complimentary bicycles for exploring the property.

Pros

Cedar cabins and yurts provide a unique blend of outdoor camping and hotel comforts.

The Canyon Market and Deli offers locally sourced meals, barbecue kits, and wine tastings.

Proximity to El Capitan State Beach (0.5 km) allows for easy coastal access.

Activities include hiking, stargazing, and seasonal events like concerts and docent-led tours.

Complimentary bicycles and a heated pool enhance the guest experience.

Cons

Bathrooms for yurts are shared and located nearby, not within the units.

The remote location requires a car for off-site exploration beyond the resort.

“The secluded location really sets this place apart, offering a sense of privacy that's hard to beat. Cabins are thoughtfully designed, and the heated pool is definitely a plus for families. I particularly appreciate the convenience of the onsite market-a thoughtful touch.”
Hotel logo
Catherine WalkerEditor-in-Chief at Campingtipsforeveryone
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Amenities & Features

El Capitan Canyon offers amenities for a comfortable and memorable camping experience
Facilities: Very good
7.9/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Wind surfing
  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling
  • Fishing

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Shops/Commercial services
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Packed lunches

Children

  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach access
  • Live entertainment
  • Garden area

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
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El Capitan Canyon Location

11560 Calle Real, Capitan, California, United States, 93117
Map view
11560 Calle Real, Capitan, California, United States, 93117
Nearby
El Capitan State Beach Rd
El Capitan State Beach
2600 ft
Explore Capitan
Experience Capitan
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
El Capitan State Beach
10 minutes' walk
El Capitan State Beach features scenic views, picnic areas, and beach access, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Refugio State Park and Beach
7-minute drive
Refugio State Park offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and a sandy beach for swimming, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking Trails
7-minute drive
Nearby hiking trails accommodate all levels and lead to beautiful vistas and coastal views, suitable for all adventurers.
Beach Relaxation
10 minutes' walk
Enjoy a tranquil day at El Capitan State Beach, ideal for sunbathing, reading, or a peaceful stroll along the shore.
The Hungry Cat
10-minute drive
Seafood lovers will enjoy fresh ceviche and lobster dishes in a casual, coastal setting; reservations recommended.
Santa Barbara Fish Market
15-minute drive
Casual eatery for fresh fish and local specialties with a laid-back atmosphere and stunning harbor views.
The Arlington Theatre
20-minute drive
Historic venue for concerts and film screenings, known for its stunning architecture; check for the latest events.
The Funk Zone
25-minute drive
A vibrant arts district featuring galleries, wine tasting rooms, and live music, ideal for evening exploration.
Getting There & Around
City Centre
Capitan6 min  ·  2.4 mi
Airports
Santa Barbara (SBA)33 min  ·  13.6 mi
Presidente Itamar Franco (iza)77 min  ·  31.9 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-21:00
Check-out
from 08:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs US$20 per person per day. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
117

Reviews & Ratings

Feedback from campers about their experiences at El Capitan Canyon.
Review score
Based on 32 verified reviews
7.5/10
Very good
72%
Recommend
Cleanliness
7.7/10
Comfort
8.2/10
Facilities
7.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Location
9.0/10
Paid Wi-Fi
2.5/10
Staff
8.6/10
Value for money
7.5/10
Pros
Quiet nature
Friendly staff
Comfortable yurt
Cons
Run-down cabins
Guest reviews
based on 49 reviews
7.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About El Capitan Canyon
What is the check-in and check-out policy at El Capitan Canyon?
Check-in is from 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is El Capitan Canyon from Santa Barbara Airport?
The hotel is 17 km from Santa Barbara Airport.
What amenities are available at El Capitan Canyon?
The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, a garden, and a restaurant.
Is breakfast provided at El Capitan Canyon?
An à la carte breakfast is available at the hotel for an additional charge of 20 USD.
What type of accommodations does El Capitan Canyon offer?
The hotel offers cedar cabins, yurts, and safari tents designed for a luxury camping experience.
Are there any nearby attractions to El Capitan Canyon?
Local attractions include Refugio State Park and Beach (approximately 10 km) and El Capitan State Beach (approximately 0.5 km).
What recreational activities are available at El Capitan Canyon?
Guests can enjoy hiking, biking, and seasonal activities such as campfire storytelling and astronomy.
Is parking available at El Capitan Canyon?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What dining options are available at El Capitan Canyon?
The Canyon Market provides dining options including organic groceries and local wines, alongside an on-site restaurant.
What facilities can be found in the rooms at El Capitan Canyon?
Rooms come with a kitchenette featuring a microwave, a mini-fridge, and a coffee maker.
Does El Capitan Canyon have a wellness facility?
The hotel features wellness facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool and spa therapy.
Is there a children's playground at El Capitan Canyon?
Yes, there is a children's playground adjacent to the heated swimming pool.
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room