[1] Jalama was once the site of a Chumash People settlement named "Halama," "Jalam," "Xalam," or "Shilimaqstush.

[5][4] Following California's admission to the United States, the park became the property of the Atlantic Richfield Oil Company (ARCO).

[4] In May 1943, the Atlantic Richfield Oil Company agreed to donate 23.5 acres (9.5 ha) of the beach to the County of Santa Barbara for use as a park.

[1] In 2007, an enforcement action by the California Coastal Commission, against Cojo and Jalama Ranches due to unpermitted development activities, resulted in an additional 36 acres (15 ha) of privately held land being donated to the County of Santa Barbara to further expand the beach.

[6] Jalama features day-use picnic areas along with overnight camping facilities.