Butterfly Beach

Entry and exit are from the sandy beach. Be cautious of surf conditions which can change throughout the day. The beach slope can be steep at times, especially after winter storms.

Direct beach access with a moderate surface swim to reach deeper areas. The beach is narrow, especially during high tide.

Common sightings include sheephead, opaleye, garibaldi, and various rockfish. The sandy areas host halibut, rays, and sand dollars. During certain seasons, lobster can be found in the rocky areas.

The site features a predominantly sandy bottom with rocky reef structures extending from both ends of the beach. The bottom drops gradually to diving depths.

Limited free street parking is available along Channel Drive. Arrive early during peak times as spaces fill quickly.

Limited facilities are available at the beach itself - no public restrooms or showers. The closest amenities are at the nearby Montecito shopping areas.

Moderate to high on the beach, especially on sunny weekends. The beach is popular with locals, tourists, and dog walkers. Underwater, diver traffic is relatively light as it's not among the most popular diving locations in the area.

The site can experience strong currents, particularly during tidal changes. Boat traffic from nearby harbors should be noted; always use a dive flag. The beach lacks facilities, so plan accordingly. Visibility can be variable and affected by seasonal conditions.