On our recent road trip along California’s coastline, we love to find hidden gems and local secrets on the way. Nojoqui Falls Trail (pronounced na-hoo-ui) was one of our finds. This moss-covered 80ft waterfall is located just off Highway 101, between Gaviota and Solvang. The trail to this beautiful waterfall is short and easy. It is perfect for beginners and children or if you just want to take a quick break on your long road trip. It is also only about 7 miles from the Gaviota Wind Caves. So, you can add Nojoqui Falls Trail as an extension after hiking the wind caves.
Note: Please make sure to respect this beautiful place and the surrounding areas. Always practice LEAVE NO TRACE. This means no loud music, no graffiti, no taking artifacts or fossilized items, and pack out what you pack in! Please help us protect this place for generations to come!
Stats
Where
Nojoqui Falls Trail Trailhead
3190 Alisal Rd, Gaviota, CA 93117
34.532169, -120.176643
Parking
There is a big parking area in front of the trailhead.
Restroom
Restrooms are located in front of the cul-de-sac at the trailhead.
Fee
Free
Important Things
- Opens 8 am to Sunset
- The trail might be closed due to rain, flooding, or rockslide so make sure to check for closures before going.
Distance
0.8 miles R.T.
Elevation Gain
232 ft
Level
Easy with some rocky, slipper sections near the waterfalls.
Time:
15 – 30 minutes
Pet-friendly
You can bring your pet, but they have to be on leashed.
Ideal Time
The waterfalls flow the most in Spring or after heavy rain.
Weather
Video
Getting to the Nojoqui Falls Trailhead
To get to Nojoqui Falls Trail trailhead from Santa Barbara, take Highway 101 North. After 5.4 miles, turn right on La Lata Place, following signs for Nojoqui Falls County Park. Follow this road for about 1 mile before taking the first left onto Alisal Road. After 0.8 miles, turn right to go into Nojoqui Falls County Park. From here, follow the road through the park and toward the mountains. You’ll find a decent-sized parking lot in front of the trailhead.
The Adventure
The Start of the Hike
As we pulled into the parking lot at the back of Nojoqui Falls Park, we didn’t have much expectation for this trail. It is because Nojoqui Falls is an easy out-and-back trail within a busy county park. However, we were pleasantly surprised to find that this trail is not only beautiful, but it is also removed from the hustle and bustle of the busy park.
Nojoqui Falls trail itself is straightforward and well-marked. It is also quite wide, shaded by oak trees, sycamores, and laurels. There are also tons of poison oaks, so be careful if you’re planning to explore the area. The trail runs along a babbling creek. Depending on when you go, there could be a lot of water in there. According to a wildlife photographer that we’ve met along the way, there are also salamanders in the creek.
The Bridge Crossing
Eventually, we came upon the first bridge crossing. After crossing over this bridge, there is a short rock stair section. The trail also turns a bit rockier. There are also 2 more bridge crossings. At the last bridge, we could see glimpses of the Nojoqui Falls. After crossing the last bridge, it was just a short walk before we got to the waterfalls.
Nojoqui Falls
If you visit in the Springs or after some heavy rains, the Nojoqui Falls are likely to be at their fullest. You could go down to the bottom of the waterfalls but it can be slippery. Make sure to wear good shoes if you’re planning to do so. The waterfalls are quite beautiful. I love the contrast between the green mossy wall and the white tumbling water. Once you’re done admiring the view, go back the same way you came from.
As we mentioned above, Nojoqui Falls is only about 7 miles from the Gaviota Wind Caves. That is a nice trail with interesting wind caves. If you love wind caves, check out the one in Anza Borrego. If you’re looking for more interesting things to do along Highway 101, we recommend checking out the Davenport Swing, Shark Fin Cove, and Cayucos Shipwreck.
These are the gear that we personally use and find them helpful for this particular adventure. Don’t forget to check out our Recommended Gear section as well.
adventure gear
This is our favourite hiking shoes. We use them for canyoneering as well. Lots of traction. Vy’s version.
Dustin’s version for La Sportiva shoes
Make sure to use lots of sunscreens! We use eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen, Stream2Sea SPF 30.
Face sunscreen is also important. We love these tinted, organic All Good Organic Sunscreen Butter.
You should always bring plenty of water. Vy loves the Camelback L.U.X.E.
For shorter hikes, the Patagonia Women’s Nine Trails Pack 18L is perfect to hold water and your essentials.
If you want something lighter, we love the packable Patagonia Women’s Houdini® Jacket and Patagonia Men’s Houdini® Jacket
other things to bring
Always good to bring some snacks with you. For healthy and easy snacks, check out some of our recipes.
camera gear
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