Hendry’s Beach in Santa Barbara

Hendry’s Beach and the BoatHouse in Santa Barbara by  Chris Potter

Hendry’s Beach aka Arroyo Burro Beach in Santa Barbara enjoys a rich history. Located between Hope Ranch and the Douglas Family Preserve, this section of coastline belonged to William N. Hendry who farmed this area with his family in the late 1800s through the early 1900s. In 1884 William N. Hendry leased 360 acres at Arroyo Burro, which included a sizable portion of Hope Ranch, and grew hay, oats, and barley selling much of his yield to stables in Santa Barbara.  The Hendrys had 12 children and often invited friends to swim off the beach. Over time the locals came to know the beach as Hendrys. Hendry retired in 1914 and in 1918 sold the farm for $80,000.

In 1947, for $15,000, Santa Barbara County purchase five and a half acres with 500 feet of oceanfront at the mouth of Arroyo Burrow Creek for a park. An additional 100 feet was deeded over as a gift. Today, Arroyo Burro County Park, aka Hendry’s Beach, is one of the most popular beaches on the Central California Coast.