2018 Map of Gaviota

About this map

The Santa Ynez Mountains descend abruptly to the Pacific Ocean along this coastal stretch of Santa Barbara County. This landscape is defined by its dramatic topographic relief and the series of coastal canyons, or cañadas, that drain south toward the sea. The historic Gaviota Pass provides a critical natural gateway through the ridgelines, leading toward the small settlement of Gaviota. Along the shoreline, Gaviota Beach and the mouth of Arroyo Hondo mark the transition from the steep upland slopes of the Los Padres National Forest to the narrow coastal shelf. The map reveals a complex drainage system including Cañada del Cementerio, Cañada del Leon, and Cañada San Onofre. Human transit is restricted to the thin corridor of the coast and the mountain pass, featuring Hollister Ranch Rd and the Beach to Backcountry trail system.