When to Go

Weather-wise, any time is a good time to visit Carpinteria depending on what you want to do. Swimming and surfing are more popular in the summer, spring and fall. Winter still holds out the prospect of hiking, although some mountain areas, national forests and parks will be inaccessible from time to time due to heavy snow. The city's many urban attractions - bars and clubs, cafes and restaurants, museums and galleries, and music and theater - are, of course, enjoyable all year round.

Most people visit Carpinteria in summer (from about mid-May to mid-September) for the beaches and the pleasures of the sea, but be warned: budget accommodations become practically nonexistent in summer and even cheap motel room prices can double or triple. Some places impose a two-night minimum stay during peak season. In general, midweek rates are lower than Friday and Saturday nights.