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Coal Oil Point Reserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 88 Google reviews · Running trail in Isla Vista, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Coal Oil Point Reserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Coastal region with bluffs and slough that's known for protecting snowy plovers.
What runners say about Coal Oil Point Reserve
“Beautiful place to enjoy the sunset and have a nice,long walk on the beach or on top of the mountain to have sunset views”
Beautiful stretch of beach north/west of UCSB. A reserve which protects native plants, dunes and shorebirds. Especially the adorable Western snowy plovers. Docents are on the beach, available year round, to provide background on the history of the nature reserve and point out shorebirds and baby chicks during the…
Great spot to watch the surfers, but there is a lot of tar that will stick to your feet. Interesting trails along the slough with lots of information about the wildlife. There is also part of the beach that is sectioned off to preserve the Snowy Plover habitat.
Beautiful less traveled public beach access. Parking is a little scarce, and you may get tar on your feet. Bring expendable water shoes & enjoy the views of the ocean, adjacent trails on the bluff, wide variety of sea birds and other creatures.
This historic place is one of the best places around Isla Vista, in the middle of the nature is relaxing to walk on the beach below the cliff. Perfect for its romantic and amazing sunsets.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful place to enjoy the sunset and have a nice,long walk on the beach or on top of the mountain to have sunset views”
Plan your run at Coal Oil Point Reserve
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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