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Summary: This is a semi-strenuous but short in and out hike. The begins trail following an old road along gaviota creek moving inland. This part is mostly flat with lots of riparian birds. As you head towards the hills, you can see final destination as series of holes in the sandstone outcroppings ahead. After about 3/4 of a mile you will start the ascending switchback, which was very well-maintained. Continuing along the ridgeline you'll come to the first wind cave. Cross through the wind cave and the trail gets much steeper with a couple of switch backs, until you reach the bottom of the second cave. To left is a trail, or you can scramble straight up. The views from the top are not to be believed. Trailhead: From the 101 exit at Gaviota Campground, just before the entrance to the campground,veer to the right and up the hill. Park in parking area and follow the road beyond the gate and mountain lion danger sign. (Lat:34.28 Lon:-120.13) Trail Guides for Gaviota Wind Caves : Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: California state parks 805-968-1033 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Erick Pfaff, who has posted 2 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by decker on 4/12/2009 very nice. it took us an hour and 45 minutes. we took our dog as well. saw some prints for mountain lions. the caves are really cool! some areas of soft, sandy inclines.
Reviewed by Erika Housley on 3/7/2009 Went today and we Loved it...took all 4 of my kids ages 5,7,9,and 14..It was a clear day and we could see all the way to the horizon. Not windy at all. Trail was a little muddy from recent rain, but we made it past the first cave and did a very breif rock climb into the 3rd cave. What a blast and big accomplishment for the kidos who are finally old enough to complete a non beginer route.
Reviewed by Stargaz3r on 2/14/2008 Went 2/09/08. Wonderful hike. Not windy at all when we went. Don't drive into the campground entrance; there's an entrance to the right where you can park your car. Go down the paved road and you'll find the start of the trail to your left. Hike starts off easy but becomes steeper as you reach the first cave. Definitely continue on to the higher caves! When you reach the top of those caves (facing caves, trail is on the left), you'll find the small ammo box where you can leave a memory, take a memory. What a great idea!! Apparently, you can keep on going to a radio transmitter and there's a wonderful view from there but we didn't have the time. The view from the top of the caves was enough for us!
Reviewed by CB4 on 10/23/2007 Nice, relaxing hike. Not too steep. There was some loose dirt/sand and rock. The dirt trail up to the top cave is pretty loose. Bring a thrasher camera if you want to take pics. When the wind picks up, the fine sand blows around. The caves were very cool, the kiddies and the pup loved it! We will be baaaaack.
Reviewed by Hasnolo on 9/25/2007 Great exercise and defintely worth it once you hit the top; just look up and you'll see the large rock caves you want to get to; don't stop at the first cave, keep going to the very top. It can get confusing, we almost took another trail at one point; just make sure to take the trail that takes you to the right and up. The ammo box at the top was cool; as usual, be careful coming down, I almost twisted my ankle a few times. 
Reviewed by SKB on 6/10/2007 We went 6/7/07 and it was terrific. Our 5 year old daughter came with us. We made it to the first wind cave without a problem and everyone wanted to go on, but due to time constraints had to head home. The switchback up the grassy hill is a little eroded so long pants and shirts for the little ones is a must, but the views and the cave are well worth the hike. You never feel tired of hot due to the ocean breeze. We will be back when we have more time.
Reviewed by iainuts on 11/4/2006 Look for the 50 cal ammo box. Leave something for others, take your memories. The Wind Caves must be experienced. The rattler on the way up was small to medium. I tossed him a small to medium rock and he angrily reliquished the trail, hissing with tounge and shaking his tail. Look out for snakes, but don't hurt 'em. If you want a longer hike, keep going 'round the back and up the next hill. The vista keeps getting better. Adds another mile one way and 500 feet of elevation to the 800 you already climbed, and picking your way through the brambles will require long pants. Enjoyed that one. Thanks LocalHikes. Luv ya!
Reviewed by clint on 5/15/2006 this is a spot I've always wanted to go hiking and never did. everytime I drive through that pass. finally went today, great hike, beautiful flowers everywhere! caves are cool, great birds. The trail up to the caves is pretty overgrown, so long pants and closed shoes might make it a bit more comfortable on the first part, well worth it. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Santa Barbara County Hiking, Santa Barbara County Trails, Santa Barbara County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||