Carpinteria Oil Seeps

There are only five known places on Planet Earth that have the natural oil-seep phenomenon. This coastal area located on the Carpinteria State Beach is one of them. Dating back millions of years ago during the Pleistocene Epoch these tar pits were used by humans as far back as 5000 B.C. as a sealant or adhesive. The Chumash also used the goo to seal their plank boats. In modern times, the tar was mined to make asphalt for the PCH. Parking is $10 and be sure to wear old ratty shoes that you don't mind getting tarry goo on. (Submitted by Eric Bristol)