Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park
Red, black and white pictographs painted by the Chumash people centuries ago survive in a small sandstone cave in the hills.
This small cave lies in the hills near San Marcos Pass. The suns, human figures and abstract patterns on the cave walls are believed to be related to Chumash astronomy and religious rituals, and research suggests they may depict the solar eclipse of 1677. The cave opening is protected by iron bars, so you view the art from behind the railing, and a visit takes just a few minutes. The mountain road is narrow with only a few parking spaces, so it is unsuitable for large vehicles. Admission is free.
Opening hours
Daytime
Nearby sights
- Cold Spring Arch Bridge
- Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
- Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
- Old Mission Santa Barbara
- Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry's)
- Santa Barbara County Courthouse
- Santa Barbara Museum of Art
- El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park