Bolsa Chica FAQ
These are the questions people ask most about Bolsa Chica State Beach, answered from California State Parks and, for the wetlands and grunion, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Each answer links to the page with the full details.
Visiting
Start with hours and fees and parking, then plan your visit.
Activities
See surfing, swimming, fire pits, camping, the bike path, fishing and grunion runs.
Rules
The short version is on rules and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get into Bolsa Chica State Beach?
You pay to park: $15 per vehicle, or $20 on summer weekends and holidays from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Seniors pay $14 ($19 on summer weekends). Payment is cashless.
What are Bolsa Chica State Beach's hours?
6 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. The entry gates close at 9 p.m.
Are dogs allowed at Bolsa Chica?
Not on the sand or in the water. Leashed dogs may use the paved multi-use trail and the parking lots. State Parks points dog owners to Huntington Dog Beach, which is not part of the state beach.
Can you camp at Bolsa Chica State Beach?
Yes, in a self-contained RV. There are 50 RV sites with water and electric hookups, $60 to $70 a night, booked on ReserveCalifornia. Tent camping is not allowed.
Do you need a reservation for the Bolsa Chica fire pits?
No. The close to 200 fire rings are first come, first served, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. year-round. Picnic areas that include a fire ring can be reserved.
Can you drink alcohol at Bolsa Chica?
No, unless approved through a Special Events permit. Registered campers 21 and up may drink in their own campsite.
Can you swim at Bolsa Chica?
Yes. California State Parks lifeguards patrol year-round, and the towers are staffed roughly Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Is Bolsa Chica good for surfing?
Yes. State Parks says it consistently draws prime waves that break in shallower water.
Are the Bolsa Chica wetlands part of the state beach?
No. The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve across PCH is run by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. It is open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and does not allow dogs or bikes.
Is there a bike path at Bolsa Chica?
Yes. The paved multi-use trail runs 2.9 miles along the beach and about 8.5 miles to Huntington State Beach.
When are the grunion runs at Bolsa Chica?
Grunion spawn March through August at full and new moons, peaking late March to early June. State Parks' Bolsa Chica grunion programs return in March 2027.
Is there food at Bolsa Chica State Beach?
Yes. The park's concessions include SeaLegs at the Beach, SeaSalt Honkey Tonk on the Beach, Beach City Provisions and PCH Tacos.
Does Bolsa Chica accept California State Parks passes?
Yes, including the California Explorer, Golden Bear, Senior Golden Bear, Distinguished Veteran, Disabled Discount and State Library Parks passes.
Is Bolsa Chica State Beach wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Accessible parking and restrooms are in every lot, two paved Spencer Ramps cross the sand, and a free beach wheelchair can be borrowed.