Carpinteria city officials said last week that local beaches were “experiencing higher than normal rates” of tar and oil in the ocean and along the shoreline.
Carpinteria city officials said last week that local beaches were “experiencing higher than normal rates” of tar and oil in the ocean and along the shoreline. Credit: City of Carpinteria photo

Going to the beach in Santa Barbara can come with a price.

Black, sticky and difficult-to-clean tar can end up on feet, swimsuits and even towels.

Residents and visitors this month have noticed “higher than normal rates” of tar and oil at beaches across Santa Barbara County’s South Coast, Noozhawk previously reported.

The U.S. Coast Guard and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Office of Spill Prevention and Response have determined that the source is natural seeps.

Seeps are areas where oil leaks out of the ground or seafloor through fractures, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 

Noozhawk wants to hear from locals about tips and tricks to get rid of beach tar. 

Do you use oil? Wipes? How do you clean your towels and shower floors? Let us know!

Noozhawk may compile your tips to share with other readers. 


— Noozhawk staff writer Rebecca Caraway can be reached at rcaraway@noozhawk.com.