Santa BarbaraBest fun attractions
Pin
Fun things to do in Santa Barbara: 47 fun attractions and activities
When is your trip?
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedSep 25, 2025
Updated • updatedSep 25, 2025
Nestled between the stunning Santa Ynez Mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is a coastal gem that offers a delightful mix of activities and attractions for every type of traveler. Whether you're strolling along the historic Stearns Wharf, soaking in the views from Shoreline Park, or exploring the vibrant art scene in the Funk Zone, this charming city is brimming with experiences that will leave you enchanted. With its Mediterranean climate and beautiful landscapes, Santa Barbara invites you to discover its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
From family-friendly outings at the Santa Barbara Zoo to the serene beauty of the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque destination. You can dive into the region's rich history at the Old Mission Santa Barbara or enjoy a fun-filled day at the MOXI Museum, where innovation meets exploration. With so many fun attractions and activities waiting to be explored, Santa Barbara is the perfect place to create unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and get ready to experience all that this beautiful city has to offer!
Why trust us
We scoured through the internet and read through 28 reputable sites and blogs like Time Out and Lonely Planet. We gathered all the results in one place and ranked them by how many times they were mentioned so you know you're getting the best of the best. Just look for the "mentioned by" tags on each place like these: 
Curious about the sites we referenced?
Your itinerary and your map in one view
No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.
What users say about the app
Other best of categories in Santa Barbara
Restaurants
Attractions
Cafes
Photo spots
Cheap eats
Breakfast and brunch
Bakeries
Romantic places
Family restaurants
Mission
Sights & Landmarks
Historical landmark
Museum
Old Mission Santa Barbara, founded in 1786, is a historic Spanish mission located on the California coast. The church, built in 1820, is known for its double-bell facade and holds religious services. Visitors can explore a museum showcasing artifacts and objects from the mission's history. The site also includes lush gardens with ocean views, a cemetery, mausoleum, and aqueduct ruins.
Old Mission Santa Barbara is definitely a must visit if you are in Santa Barbara. Lots of history and beautiful artifacts to see. The mission is well kept and maintained. The gardens were nice and the cemetery was interesting. They have several points throughout the inside and outside with QR codes that you can scan for more information or brief history of certain things. We did the self guided tour for adults, which was $17. They gave us a map which was easy to follow. Very pleasant experience. Would recommend.
Eric L — Google review
We visited the Old Mission Santa Barbara and really enjoyed it! The grounds were clean and well kept. Although we didn’t take the paid tour inside, walking around outside was still very pleasant and peaceful. The gift shop had lots of cute souvenirs to browse, and we especially liked strolling through the olive tree garden. It was a perfect sunny day for a visit!
Always a lovely time at the Mission.
I'm born and raised in Goleta/Santa Barbara and I have so many fond memories of this incredible Mission.
It's always so peaceful and everyone in the public seems to be as respectful as they can here! Really wish that it could be that in the whole town, but it's a start!!
Also, there's so many angels to take amazing photos or to have a picnic on the adjacent lawn.
Old Mission Santa Barbara is a beautiful and historically significant place that’s well worth a visit. The elegant architecture and peaceful gardens create a special atmosphere, and the museum provides interesting insights into California’s past. The chapel is charming and adds to the sense of tradition and heritage. Fans of classic television will also recognize this location — many exterior scenes from the iconic Santa Barbara series were filmed here. A must-see spot that combines history, culture, and a touch of nostalgia.
Stayed in Santa Barbara for a while right by the mission. Got the chance to not only bask in the beauty of the gardens and Santa Barbara weather, but enjoyed seeing local artists compete in a chalk art contest. I mean, I struggle to draw a stick figure so I was blown away by the talent. Also love seeing a community get locals together. Highly recommend stopping by and hoping you’re lucky enough to enjoy some local artists compete there as well!
Very pretty mission well maintained. 250 years old. Tour works well with audio guide. We spent over an hour on the tour. Nice exterior grounds that have a picnic area also.
The mission is impressive, but the $18.00 per person ticket price is steep in my opinion, this is the only mission where we’ve encountered such outrageous ticket prices. We visited because this is the last of the missions we needed to see to have visited them-all.
The church and grounds are beautiful but we thought it was odd that in the missions historic rooms there was an exhibit about sea life but not about the mission?
Mission La Purisima in Lompoc was so much better at explaining and experiencing the history of the mission and life at the mission, and it was free.
This mission was the most pricey to enter. Most of it was off limits, not opened to the public. But the cemetery was the coolest one I've seen. And the indigenous artifacts were cool.
2201 Laguna St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA•
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Aquarium
Candy store
Stearns Wharf is a must-visit destination in Santa Barbara, showcasing the charm of California's oldest wooden wharf still in operation. Nestled on State Street, this historic pier features an array of restaurants and shops, along with a small aquarium that delights visitors. As you stroll along the wharf, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the harbor and sandy beaches framed by the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains.
One of the must-visit places in Santa Barbara is Stearns Wharf. You can drive right onto the pier, and there's parking available. On the pier, you can try fresh seafood in local restaurants. It offers a stunning view of the ocean and the city - perfect for a walk and photos.
Ксения К — Google review
This is a good place to take a break and have a meal while driving along the west coast line.
The location is like an island, you feel you're out of crowd of city.
The parking is free, if you can find a spot.
The restaurant is good, both service and food. The sea view makes you feel very relaxing when eating outside.
Strongly recommended to drop by .
Stearns Wharf is in Santa Barbara. It's the oldest working g wharf in California. It was built in 1873. 2300 foot long. Yes it's that long, to allow ocean ships back then to tow up at low tide. John Peck "JP" Stearns opened a lumber yard in 1867 and needed a way to ship lumber. He got a backer, Colonel William Hollister, to help him finance and build the wharf. Fast forward to today, they have a restaurants, shops, bait & tackle shop, boat rides, and a Sea Center aquarium.
The crazy thing about the wharf is that you can drive your car out onto it and park. The wharf acts as a parking lot too. Wild! We drove our car out there and parked. Parking is free for the first 90 minutes. $3 for each additional hour. There is a public restroom but it was a wet mess. A layer of water was on the ground as if they hosed it down. So if you are unsteady on your feet, precede with caution.
Folks can fish off the pier. We saw a young man catch a thresher shark. Wow. The vibe of the pier was casual, even the eateries. Walk out to the furthest point and catch the 360 views. Beautiful! I bet the sunset is spectacular against the drop into the ocean's horizon.
Stearns Wharf is the best. It may be one of the last wooden wharves in CA you can still drive out in. Over looking the harbor. There is a lot to do with restaurants to eat at from nicer sit down to fish and chips window ordering. There is a bunch to do with kids including the Sea Center or fishing off the end of the pier.
Stearns Wharf of Santa Barbara is an historic destination that may be one of the most famous of piers on the California coast! The present day pier has been reconstructed since the original commercial wharf was developed in 1872 by John P. Stearns, with funding help from W. W. Hollister.
Unlike other piers down the coast, this one is geared up for visitors, with signage, exhibits, memorabilia,, gift shops, restaurants, boat rides and of course restrooms.
I enjoyed the views of the calm ocean as well as the overview looking back towards land. It seemed as tho wherever I stopped to take pictures, other visitors were also taking in the scene beside me!
There’s easy access off the end of State Street, where public parking’s available.
I found free street parking just south of the pier. There’s also more secure paid parking areas within walking distance.
The pier is compatible with handicap access and convenience.
Great pier, clean beach, ample parking right on the pier and free if you park for less than 90 minutes. Clean restrooms. Will definitely be back.
Arriving here on a cloudy day, it felt a little deserted and dreary. However, there were many people cycling and running, which brought a sense of life to the place. These looked like a good place for sea fishing.
This pier is very nice. On the pier you can find many restaurants. The view from the pier is very nice. The only downside is that the planks on the floor is very old and needs a replacement. But overall a very good pier.
217 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Need a place to stay?
Where
When
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
When
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
When
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Travelers
2
Travelers
2
Zoo
Zoos & Aquariums
Garden
Non-profit organization
Santa Barbara Zoo is a charming and easily accessible 30-acre zoo with lush gardens that offer stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and Santa Barbara. Despite its small size, it houses an impressive collection of 500 animals from 146 different species. Visitors can enjoy a miniature train ride around the property to see all the animals on offer.
We had a blast taking our one-year-old granddaughter to the Santa Barbara Zoo. It’s a cozy, small spot, perfect for little ones like her. Despite its size, it’s packed with all the classic animals—parrots, lions, goats, giraffes, flamingos, and even elephants. She was enchanted! The zoo camp for kids seems super popular, and there are tons of fun activities. The train ride was a highlight—definitely worth the extra $8, though the $35 entrance fee and $11 parking add up. Food options are limited, mostly fast food and vending machines, but it didn’t dampen our day. It’s such a great spot for young kids, and our granddaughter absolutely loved it! Highly recommend for a sweet family outing.
Regis K — Google review
We visited this charming destination as a family and had a great time! Entry costs $28 per adult and $18 per child, with an optional train ride inside the park for $7 per adult and $6.50 per child. The train station also features a cute train-themed shop that's worth checking out.
🚶♀️ Be prepared for some uphill and downhill walking—comfortable shoes are a must! The park offers stroller and electric wheelchair rentals, which is super helpful for families with young kids or anyone needing mobility support.
🍔 There are restaurants on-site where you can record classic favorites like burgers and fries, perfect for a casual lunch break.
🚆 We traveled from Los Angeles via Amtrak, and the station is just a 4-minute Uber ride from the park entrance. On the way back, we opted to walk—it's about 40 minutes, and a nice way to wind down after a fun-filled day.
Overall, it's a pleasant spot for a family outing with a mix of nature, fun, and convenience. Highly recommend!
Nice sized zoo for younger kiddos. Enclosures were smaller but it's understandable for the size of facility. It was easy to walk and the train was fun as well. The conductor was very fun and knowledgeable. There was a fun play area for young kids for a break. We went during the week so I could see how on a weekend the parking would be difficult.
Great medium sized zoo. Grounds are very clean, beautiful and well maintained.
Terrific diversity in species.
All habitats and animals reflect a very caring staff.
Lots of areas designed to give kids space and things to play on and with.
Highly recommend visiting this zoo.
This was such a great visit. My boys loved it. We brought my son here for his birthday. It was warm but not unbearable, the workers were nice excluding the guy taking food orders. The guy taking food orders was rude, drab and not helpful. Its sad when my 10 yr old says he hates his job for sure. We went on 9-8 a Monday and it was practically empty. It was such a fun experience feeding the giraffe and 1 of them are pregnant. So fun. The train was such a fun experience too. My boys enjoyed their time today.
It was a wonderful day. In the past we ended up at SBZ and the crowd size was big. Too Big..
today was a nice size which made our experience awesome 👏👏👏
Quite honestly. The Zoo was designed for large crowds.
SBZ does nothing for Seniors. Which is odd..
The staff was very nice. There were a few exhibits closed.
We had a nice talk with a Keeper who specializes in Condors and Turkey Vultures. She was very nice, knowledgeable, and helpful..
The Santa Barbara Zoo is a great place to go with a family especially if you have kids. It’s not a large zoo but it is perfectly sized and organized for kids to have an amazing time. They have all the animals kids know about that show up in cartoons. You can even feed giraffes and get close to kangaroos! It’s a great way to spend a day and then get some local seafood around Santa Barbara
We’ve been proud members of the Santa Barbara Zoo since 2019 and visit 5-6 times a year, and it never fails to delight our family! The zoo is a gem, perfectly sized for a morning adventure from Santa Clarita. The drive is a breeze compared to navigating Los Angeles traffic, and Santa Barbara’s idyllic weather makes every trip feel like a mini-vacation.
One of our favorite traditions is snapping photos of our kids in front of the elephant statue. it’s heartwarming to see how much they’ve grown with each visit. The zoo’s kid-friendly play area is a highlight, where we can relax with a Zoo Brew or a coffee while the kids burn off energy. The Australian walkabout with the wallabies is always a hit, and when the gorillas are out, their engaging interactions make you feel truly seen. Feeding the giraffes is a must-do, though we also love simply sitting on a bench near the giraffes or lions, snacking with the stunning ocean backdrop.
We usually ride the train every other visit, which adds a fun twist without feeling repetitive. After a morning at the zoo, we head to the Funk Zone for a delicious lunch to cap off the day. With its perfect blend of animal encounters, family-friendly amenities, and that unbeatable coastal vibe, the Santa Barbara Zoo is a 10/10. We’ll be members for life!
500 Ninos Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, USA•
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
Historical landmark
Plant nursery
Gardens
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a renowned living museum and member of the American Alliance of Museums, dedicated to preserving and showcasing California native plants. The garden features 5.5 miles of paths, an authentic Japanese tea garden, and a redwood grove. It stands out as more than just a beautiful space with pretty flowers, offering collections-based research and educational opportunities for visitors.
I cannot believe how wild, extremely beautiful, silent and spiritual this place is. With the little creek running through stepping stones, so many hidden corners where you can sit and enjoy the view on the mountains or the ocean… and then the people working in the Botanic Garden are all so sweet! I absolutely loved it and could have wandered for many more hours in this lovely “garden” which feels like a magic place of its own ❣️ from the garden I walked down to the Old Mission, easing myself into the lived world again 😇 oh and how lucky was I : the poppies were blooming!
Ellen D — Google review
The Santa Barbara botanical garden was a nice garden that showcased many of the local plants and species that are native to the area. The meadow was the most beautiful part of the garden and was really enjoyable to walk through. There were many other nice places to walk through but I didn’t feel that they compared to the meadow. Overall, we were happy we came here but likely wouldn’t return a second time.
Such a fun garden! 🌸🌿 It’s definitely different from others I’ve been to—super unique and full of surprises.
There’s a bit of hiking involved 🥾 so be prepared—we went in dresses and didn’t know 😅 but still had a great time!
I loved how it changes atmospheres as you walk through 🌲🌼, and there are hidden gems throughout that are perfect for kids to explore 🧚♀️🔍.
Even though one area was closed when we went 🚧, it was still a beautiful and peaceful place to visit 💖🌞.
Great for a little adventure and nature time!
This is a nice place to visit if you have 2 hours to spare. The garden highlights native California fora. Most of the paths are unpaved and comfortable shoes are a must. I loved the little creek with the stepping stones.
This garden is primarily only California-native plants, which is cool. They have redwoods, a torey pine, and lots of plants from the Channel Islands. The bathroom at the island lookout was the cleanest and we were able to see Santa Cruz Island in the distance. The gift shop/nursery was nice and the staff at both the gift shop and nursery were very helpful.
Nice garden and everything is walking distance. The drive there was awesome as well. Most people don't do Tipton trail but it worth it for the view. See photos.
Just visited the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, and it’s a chill spot for a nature fix! This place is a smaller garden, but it’s got some solid hiking trails and cool streams weaving through. When we went, not a ton of flowers were popping off—only a handful in bloom—but the pine trees and natural vibes made up for it. The landscape feels super serene, and you can check out some Spanish mission ruins from the 1800s right in the garden, which is a neat little history bonus. It’s not packed with stuff to see, but it’s perfect for a relaxed walk in nature. Plus, it’s not far from the Old Mission, so you could pair the two for a day trip. Oh, and pro tip: if you’ve got an LA Arboretum membership, you get in free! Definitely worth a stroll if you’re in the area.
The guide described what to see really well. They have a small hike inside which is worth doing. Really calm and peaceful!!!
There a small walk uphill which takes you to a museum/house from where you can see Channel Islands. Lots of flowers to see, including redwoods, mint etc.
Plenty of parking and clean restrooms. Overall very well maintained garden.
1212 Mission Canyon Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA•
Art museum
Museums
Book store
Non-profit organization
The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is a compact yet impressive museum located in California. Originally a post office, it was transformed into a museum in 1941 and now boasts nearly 30,000 works from around the world. The museum features 20th-century Western American paintings and modern Asian ceramics, as well as works by renowned artists such as Matisse and Picasso.
Small but full of art! It’s a tiny place, but packed with great pieces. I was so happy to spot a few works by Monet! The building itself is beautiful, and the layout is easy to follow. Very clean, and the staff were all really nice. But i wish they had a gift shop though!
Su — Google review
The classic, fine art is lacking...3 Monet, and a Chagall...IMHO: WAY too much contemporary and modern "art." The main exhibit was interesting but just didn't speak to me.
World’s smallest museum. Took 20 mins to go through 2 floors mostly stuff from mid 1900s hahaha wasn’t impressed. I attached the coolest item they had showcasing. And they wanted an extra $$ to go into two rooms full of Monet. I would not recommend unless you want to pay to waste a few minutes.
Smaller museum and gallery but perfect size so you don't get museum fatigue. The permanant galleries are always great to look at after you finish touring their current exhibition.
Staff and curators always choose interesting themes and topics and guides are extremely knowledgable and passionate. I also visited the van gogh exhibit which was the most packed i have ever seen place.
Free for students as well as long as you bring your student ID with you!
Lovely museum! Lots of paintings, sculptures, installations. Great collection of late 19 and early 20th century European art. I will be back for sure!
Small but extremely well curated and way more edgy than you would expect. Innovative and exciting collection. So inspiring and fun.
Nice Visit, But Felt a Bit Sparse
The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is well-maintained and offers a quiet, pleasant space to explore, but it felt a bit barren. While there are some interesting pieces on display, the overall selection seemed limited compared to other museums of its size. It’s worth visiting if you’re in the area, but don’t expect a large or bustling collection. A fair 3 stars for a museum with potential that could use a bit more variety.
imagine standing two feet from a second century sculpture. witness the oil on canvas that rivals photography. make this a stop on any trip to Santa Barbara...
1130 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Create your ultimate travel itinerary
Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.
Natural history museum
Museums
Science museum
The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, established in 1916, is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. Nestled in a serene oak woodland by a creek, the museum boasts diverse exhibits including regional history, art, a planetarium, and a butterfly garden. Its campus houses an impressive collection of 3.5 million natural history specimens and Chumash artifacts. The museum's blue whale skeleton at the entrance sets the stage for an enriching experience that appeals to all ages.
A great place to take your family to visit if you're in the area. Very nice displays and everything is well within a good walking distance. We enjoyed the butterflies and dinosaur displays. Parking is free and so is for active duty military (including reservists and National Guard). Friendly staff. Clean Museum. The mission is also close by.
Charles F — Google review
The staff are very friendly and the museum is well kept and clean. Fun exhibits in the museum part and it also has an outside backyard area that's great for kids. The butterflies are also out right now, and are very well maintained. It also has an observatory and planetarium where we got a pretty cool show.
The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a great place to visit and bring your children to. Offers a good amount of history and information on mammals, birds, science, prehistoric animals, Chumash people and many, many more things to learn about. They have a beautiful butterfly garden and a live bird area. It’s truly a fun place to visit.
I visited the Natural History Museum during summer break and bought our tickets, paying a little extra for the Butterfly Pavilion—it was a bit “extra,” but absolutely worth it. The first thing that caught my attention was the planetarium. Small, yes, but incredibly immersive! Even though some little ones weren’t enjoying the show and made a lot of noise, it was still amazing and almost changed how I view Earth and life.
After that, we headed to the Butterfly Pavilion. The line was short and easygoing, though it was pretty hot—some fans nearby would have been nice. Once inside, it was magical: butterflies were everywhere, and three even landed on me! It felt like being in a Disney movie. My visit was a little more expensive than expected, but the mix of the immersive planetarium and the enchanting butterflies made it fascinating, fun, and unforgettable.
Great place to visit! Very good for kids. They have a beautiful butterfly exhibit until the end of the summer ($3 per person).
There is a planetarium 25 minute shows about 3 times a day.
They have an observatory.
Prehistoric forest with moving dinosaurs is a must see.
There is a garden with a creek where kids can play with water, boat, climb rocks.
Free parking.
What an amazing Museum to visit we had no idea the history we would see with the largest whale skelton in the world. There is an indoor area you can visit to check out the history and animals around Santa Barbara, learn about the Missions along the coast. You can also walk around outside via the nature area and see some really cool dinosaurs and learn some history.
My son and I went there for his end of the year field trip and we absolutely loved it! What a wonderful place to go and explore! Everyone was so friendly and really cares for the nature in and around the museum.
The animatronic dinos were awesome my kids thought they were amazing. It was a highlight of our visit. Seeing Chad as we walked up was amazing to learn those are his real bones showing g how massive blue whales are. Definitely going to go back on a week day and check out the planetarium next time.
2559 Puesta Del Sol, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA•
City courthouse
Sights & Landmarks
County government office
Courthouse
The Superior Court of California County of Santa Barbara, also known as the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, is a historic 1929 tile-roof complex renowned for its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. It is considered one of the most beautiful government buildings in America and draws thousands of visitors annually. The courthouse features the iconic Mural Room, adorned with a romanticized depiction of Santa Barbara's history by painter Daniel Sayre Groesbeck.
A must visit for sure. The grounds are beautiful. The mural room is amazing. Listen to the docent. Great information about the history of Santa Barbara. We took the stairs up to the clock tower. It’s a workout let me tell you. There is an elevator. The views from up there were amazing. At the top is a compass drawn on the floor. What I thought was west (toward the ocean) is not so. Hard to wrap your mind around it. Walk around. And the architecture is so pretty.
Cynthia B — Google review
The Santa Barbara Courthouse is hands down one of the most stunning elopement and wedding locations I’ve ever photographed. The Spanish-style architecture, lush gardens, and warm California tones make it feel straight out of a fairytale. It’s elegant yet intimate, and there’s magic in every frame taken here. Highly recommend it for couples dreaming of a classic Santa Barbara celebration!
Such a beautiful and historic gem! The Spanish Colonial architecture, tile details, and views from the clock tower are breathtaking. The courtyard and gardens are perfect for photos — especially weddings or quinceañeras. Definitely a must-see in Santa Barbara! It’s also walking distance to major shops at Old Town Santa Barbara. Be there on Saturdays when they close the streets so you can freely walk without the traffic.
I’ve been to a lot of different cities and the last thing anyone recommends me to go checkout is the courthouse. When I read online that the Santa Barbara courthouse was a must while I was in town, I figured why not go and check it out.
I did not know what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised by it all. I mean just from outside, it looked really different from the superior court of Los Angeles as it was a lot smaller, but what caught my eye was how antiquated the building looked. I liked seeing the big murals on the walls and chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. I found it interesting that despite its older structure, it’s still in use.
Walking around inside was a lot of fun but the highlight was the tower with views of the city and everything. You can take an elevator or go up the stairs to get there.
One other thing that really stood out to me about this place was the gardens right outside. There was a lot of people taking photos there or just hanging out on the lawn. I mean, they are really beautiful and well kept and seem like a great place in town to hang out and kill time.
Also, the older woman at the information booth was really helpful. She narrowed down some activities for me to do while I was in the city and even recommended me places to go and eat food. She was sweet and took her time showing me a map of the city with all the points of interest. Give her a raise!
Amazing views from the Clocktower and the Mural Room is a must see! There were a handful of weddings taking place so we also witnessed multiple brides and grooms coming and going, further adding to the scenery.
I visited the Superior Court of California in Santa Barbara and honestly didn’t expect it to be this interesting. The building itself is beautiful, clean, and full of history and character. It feels almost like a museum with how nicely everything is designed. You can walk around, explore different areas, and there’s always something to see — from the classic architecture to the peaceful courtyard outside. The atmosphere is calm and respectful but still open enough that you can really take in the space. It’s definitely worth visiting, even if you’re not there for official business. Super cool experience, I totally recommend checking it out.
This is the best tour spot in Santa Barbara downtown. The garden is very beautiful and we happened to see a wedding on that day.
We also went to the top of tower to have a view from all 4 directions of the city, it seems that the tower is the highest point of the city.
You'll need to pass a security check when going to the tower, so leave you guns behind you.
Probably one of the most beautiful buildings you can find in this part of California. The architecture is so iconic of Spanish colonial times, but it looks even more impressive inside with the murals.
Artistically, it is so impressive. You can visit it for free and spend as much time as you want. You can also go up the tower to get a 360 view of Santa Bárbara and the mountains.
1100 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
Garden
Lotusland is a 37-acre estate and botanical garden located in Montecito, known for its collection of over 3,000 plants, including rare cycads, cacti, and euphorbias. Once owned by the late Madame Ganna Walska, this Victorian mansion has been transformed into a stunning horticultural wonderland with 25 distinct gardens such as the Japanese Garden, Insectarium, and the Blue Garden.
This is a great garden with a wide variety of gardening styles. If you are a serious gardener or interested in hordiculture you will want to take the docent tour. If you just want to look at a pretty garden take the self guided tour. Wear comfortable shoes. Reservation required to visit
Gregg W — Google review
TOTALLY worth the price of admission. Book well in advance, because they DO sell out.
The number of tickets per visit slot are limited, so it never felt crowded.
I’m glad did the self guided tour, because we could wander and linger as we pleased, stopping to draw, meditate or just breathe in the verdant peace of this place.
There is a docent led tour available, but don’t be afraid to choose the self-guided option. There are volunteers everywhere to help you navigate the gardens. Make sure to stop at the store on the way out-they had all kinds of cool plants for sale at reasonable prices.
No doubt about it, this place is absolutely gorgeous! So much to see, so peaceful, a real reprieve from stress. However, giving only 3 stars due to the pricing. You are only allowed 2 hours in your time slot to see so much. We could only cover maybe half of the gardens, and had to rush at that. You'd need to come twice to see the entire gardens at a non-rushed pace, and at $60 a ticket, that's a lot of money for 4 hours of a self-guided walk through a garden.
Great garden(s). Japanese garden is amazing. Cactus collection is also pretty awesome. Not crowded due to limited access. You’ll probably need to see other reviews for more useful feedback opinion from more garden-oriented people. (Do not get me wrong, I do like plants)
What a gorgeous and beautiful place to visit. Its so well kept. They give you a map help you get around and if you get lost like me, there's volunteers around to help you. The volunteers are very nice and helpful. They went above and beyond in guiding me on where to go and took my disability into consideration.
The plants and flowers are beautiful. It's a really nice place to relax and enjoy its beauty.
This is the third time I have visited Lotusland. I live in AZ and would come every week if I was closer. It’s an absolute gem of a destination. I highly recommend a docent tour! Just an incredible experience.
One of the must-see premier gardens in the United States. Stunning mix of unique plant material and California natives, from succulents to pollinators. The Japanese garden, and the water feature akin to one in the Alhambra are just two amazing highlights . Book early given controlled admittance during the year.
Always beautiful! In July the lotus were blooming and everything looked perfect. Everyone was very kind and we had a great time!
Cold Spring Rd, Montecito, CA 93108, USA•
The Funk Zone in Santa Barbara, California is a vibrant and lively area that was once an industrial spot but has been transformed into a hipster haven by artists. This district is known for its artistic displays, murals adorning the walls, and exciting nightlife with plenty of delicious alcoholic drinks. The area hosts great parties and offers boozy beer and wine tours as well as themed food excursions, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the city's creative and culinary scene.
Santa Barbara’s Funktown District is a glorious treasure trove of ocean-setting, palm‑lined magic right across from top-notch hotels. Walk straight from your door, plop down on grassy seaside spots, and watch the waves sparkle—paradise literally within a block or two!
🎨 Artistic Vibe Everywhere
This 12–13 block area bursts with vibrant murals, pop-up galleries, and artist studios hiding behind old warehouses—a living, breathing art gallery under the sun .
🍷 Sip, Savor & Shop
With 20+ urban wine tasting rooms, craft breweries like Figueroa Mountain and Topa Topa, and the city’s first distillery (Cutler’s Artisan Spirits), thirsty travelers rejoice . Fuel your fun at The Lark, Loquita, Mony’s tacos, Helena Avenue Bakery, and more—fine dining, casual eats, food trucks, and foodie heaven all rolled into one .
👟 Walkable & Wonderful
Everything here is delightfully walkable—wine, art, food, ocean breezes, microbrews, batting cages (yes, really!), galleries, gourmet groceries, bikes to rent, paddleboard rentals, all at your fingertips . Parking’s manageable, too, and it felt very safe—even on that slightly bustling weekday when I visited.
🏖️ Seaside Leisure & Ocean Views
Stroll to palm‑lined grassy beach alcoves for ocean watching, or meander two blocks to Stearns Wharf for sunsets, pier snacks, artisan markets, and family-friendly vibes .
👫 Perfect for Everyone
Solo work sessions at cafés? Romantically sipping wine at sunset? Family afternoons of kayaking or batting-cage fun? Check, check, and check. It’s equally great for groups, couples, remote work, or multi-gen travel with its diversity of experiences.
🎉 Events & Energy
Join bi-monthly art walks, Sunday craft markets, live music nights, brewery tours, or museum drop-ins at the interactive MOXI—there’s always a spark of surprise just around the corner .
Peggy K — Google review
Very different. Very artsy parking is a little bit of a problem. But super friendly people everywhere. Definitely feel safe walking around. Everybody was helpful the areas well-maintained. Plenty of shopping and food choices. I had actually went to both wineries and distilleries. Checked out some of the vintage places. Planned on going back for dancing but never made it. A lot of activities going on everywhere. Just follow the signs.
Unique district of SB, located close to the beach with some fun shops to explore. Lively artsy atmosphere and very walkable, just keep in mind the tough parking here.
Casual spot highlighting Sta Barbara lifestyle with a number of aggregated shops and food and beverage estavlishments. Often visited for their cafes in the morning and for a drink during the evenings.
Located in downtown Santa Barbara, well, Google maps helped us determine where to head, it was very difficult to figure out what was actually offered as part of the funk zone. We never did find a main entry point and or a complete understanding of what was offered as part of this space. It seemed to be a space where you could largely find wine, tasting rooms, and other eateries. Just a good reminder that it’s important to read reviews and scope places out to better understand what they’re offering.
Loved the cute little shops! Really worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Nestled between the Pacific and Highway 101, Santa Barbara's Funk Zone is a vibrant kaleidoscope of converted warehouses adorned with colorful murals, where industrial grit meets artistic flair. This once-gritty district has blossomed into a pedestrian-friendly haven, inviting you to wander through its eclectic mix of boutique tasting rooms, artisanal eateries, and galleries showcasing local talent. It's a place where the scent of good food mingles with the salty air, and every corner promises a new discovery, from a hidden wine bar to a quirky shop brimming with unique treasures.
Many choices for beer and wine tasting. Most tastings start at $25.00 & up. It's walkable and it has many nice stores to see. Bring a sweater!
137 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
State park
Sights & Landmarks
Historical landmark
Museum
Points of Interest & Landmarks
El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park is a historical site that preserves the remnants of a Spanish fortress dating back to 1782. The park features 17 restored buildings and sites surrounding the Plaza de Armas, offering insights into the Chumash settlement and Spanish colonization. Visitors can explore original sections of the Presidio, Spanish and American adobes, a chapel, bell tower, and archaeological discoveries.
El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park is an informative place to explore the history of Santa Barbara. I was surprised to see the weaving loom, as it was used in the past here, and we also used a similar one in Thailand. It's still in excellent condition. Well done!
Miu N — Google review
It's a work in progress. Some interesting bits. There just isn't a lot to this place so it is a fairly quick tourist stop. Parking is street or paid commercial lots. There are restuarant options within a block of the entrance.
Great little museum! They did a great job of recreating the old presidio. They also had great exhibits on live in the Spanish colonial era.
Lovely historic site. Great place for a good walk and place to learn more about the history. Recommend for everyone visiting
Passport stamps (including the Anza trail stamp) are located at the entrance of El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park.
Arts and crafts for dia de los muertos. Great time with the familia.
This is a must! This experience is by far one of the richest in history and culture! The visitor's center is the first place to stop and buy your admission to the self-guided tour. This is on the corner of Santa Barbara street and Canon Perdido right in Downtown Santa Barbara between Anacapa and Santa Barbara St.
We found parking on Casa de la Guerra at. The visitor's center attendee was well-informed and calmly explained the tour to us. He pointed out all of the points of interest and have us a walking tour book.
The booklet tells you everything you need to know. My kids got in free because they are under 16, and my admission was only $5! Well worth it! We also bought some souvenirs in the Visitor's Center.
Park a couple blocks away and walk through, you will have memories to last a lifetime. I am so intrigued that I purchased several books on the Anza trail, the local Natives, and the Spanish, Mexican, and American history of this area!
Enjoy!
This Spanish built fort provided protection for El Pueblo de Santa Barbara and today is a museum and tourist attraction showcasing the history as well as the various ethnic groups that have occupied the territory through the years. The visitor's center is very informative and the concierge was friendly.
123 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Create your ultimate travel itinerary
Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.
Park
Nature & Parks
Public beach
Shoreline Park is a picturesque and popular park in California, offering stunning views of the coastline, the city of Santa Barbara, and the Santa Ynez Mountains. It features a playground, grassy areas, walking paths, and beach access. Visitors can hike down a wooden staircase to discover a secluded tidal pool and private beach area for quiet relaxation. The park is perfect for picnics, water sports, swimming in the ocean, whale watching, barbecuing, and more.
The ambiance is fantastic—neat, clean, and incredibly peaceful. There’s plenty of space to walk around and enjoy the surroundings. Absolutely loved it!
Destination M — Google review
Shoreline Park is a hidden gem that perfectly captures the spirit of the California coast. With panoramic views of the beach and ocean, it’s an ideal spot to relax, unwind, and take in the natural beauty of the shoreline. Watching surfers carve through waves just offshore adds an energizing backdrop to an already serene setting.
Beyond the view, Shoreline Park delivers an impressive food and drink experience. Their menu features a well-curated selection of flavorful dishes—fresh, satisfying, and thoughtfully plated. But what truly sets this place apart is its cocktail program. Whether you’re in the mood for a bold craft cocktail or a smooth, refreshing mixed drink, the bar staff consistently hits the mark. Each drink is balanced, creative, and complements the coastal ambiance perfectly.
Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, sunset drinks, or a laid-back dinner with a view, Shoreline Park checks all the boxes for a memorable experience by the water.
Beautiful park, well maintained with a VERY long ledt to right walking path with plenty of grass, walking paths, trees and... then there is the mighty Pacific Ocean right there in front of you. It's Santa Barbara so it's extra and so worth it. They say to the right of the staircase is off leash for dogs and we did turn right but there is hundreds, thousands of feet of beach in either direction. Check the tides, that matters but if you're around this place ans and want to relax do yourself a favor and stop by to bring your BP way down
Park is long and plenty of room to hang out. I arrived around 11am and there were plenty of tables available, but not much parking. Restrooms were clean and views are amazing. Trash and recycling bins are available by nearly all tables.
Lovely parking spot with benches and tables for a picnic. Wonderfully maintained grounds and a nice playground for the (younger) kids. Toilets are basic but ok.
Beautiful, green, well-maintained park to walk, see the ocean, and relax. Just gorgeous! The restroom was not good though.
Jose works for SafeLink, and gives exceptional customer service, and support for those who are low income, and in need of a cellphone. He is patient, respectful, kind, and helpful. He is knowledgeable about his products, and services. He can be found on the corner of Chapala & Figueroa Monday through Friday. It's a convenient place because his set up with a yellow SafeLink tent is easy to see from the Santa Barbara MTD Bus Depot for those of you who ride the City Transit Buses, or if driving, there is a large parking lot right there too.
Shoreline Park in Santa Barbara, California, offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of golden hues, creating a serene and picturesque scene perfect for a peaceful evening stroll.
Shoreline Dr & Santa Rosa Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, USA•
Museum
History museum
Local history museum
Maritime museum
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, located in the Santa Barbara Harbor, was established to showcase the diverse history of the Santa Barbara Channel. It offers exhibits on various maritime topics such as early explorers, whaling, shipwrecks, navigation, and oil discovery. The museum features interactive displays for learning about sustainable fishing, virtual sport fishing, and diving. Visitors can also enjoy films at the HD Multimedia Munger Theater that provide underwater experiences.
Very fun and cute way to spend the afternoon in SB if you have small children or an interest in the maritime history of the area! The docents are very nice and well-informed, and the exhibits and demonstrations are fun and educational. Highly recommend if you have an hour to kill!
Sarah P — Google review
What a perfect way to spend a rainy day on the SB Harbor! Inexpensive entry fee, lots of local history, an art exhibition inside, local volunteers to assist you with any questions, and soooo much to see and experience. Plan for a couple of hours here... easily. A must stop if you're visiting SB. Loads of fun!
Came here on a whim and was pleasantly surprised. It was a great value and an excellent day to spend a couple of hours during a cold or rainy day. The museum has some great information and fun interactive features for all ages. Am unexpected and surprisingly good time!
What a fun little museum! We visited the Maritime Museum with a local friend who lives sailing. He was so proud to bring us to this museum. It's full of local history. The stand out was the light from the Point Conception's old lighthouse. It looks straight out of Oz 💚 There's a lot to see in a relatively small space. I have a feeling kids (especially those who like boats) would lose their minds in this place. Definitely worth the visit!
Great experience and great place, highly recommend, Steve was awesome in describing everything and giving us a very thorough tour of the place, THANK you STEVE,
Kids under 5 years are for free and adults are for 10 dollars, seniors for 7 dollars.
Great little museum! We really enjoyed our visit. Came later in the afternoon and saw everything in just over an hour. Great learning the history of Santa Barbara. Would recommend to anyone in the area looking for a museum to visit
Went on a quiet, fair weathered Sunday afternoon. The fee to enter was reasonable and easy to take care of at the front. Throughout our wandering there was probably about 50 others in the spacious two floor museum. The exhibits ranged from photographs, artifacts, audio entries, and large installation. As a life long resident of the region the photography was fantastic especially from the turn of the century. The docents are friendly and while only one was on hand that day they were available many times while chatting with groups. The ships models are beautifully detailed and there are easily a dozen large displays and artifacts you can put your hands on and learn about. This museum is a great visit if you're looking to use an hour or two of your itinerary and the fact Brophy brothers and the restaurant attached to the museum are delicious only helps. It can be walked to from the beach nearby, but it's a little far and surrounded by marinas, so it may be better to drive over to eat and visit the museum and walk along the water for a bit.
I was surprised at how good this little museum is. Good modern exhibits focusing mostly on local history maritime history with interesting artifacts. There is a free scavenger hunt for children to participant in. The docent spent a lot of time w us telling my 11 year old son about the history and making it interesting for him. His favorite part was steering the boat. Don’t forget to visit the fourth floor for an amazing view. This July the gift shop everything is 50% off. There is also a teacher discount that isn’t advertised (free entry).
113 Harbor Way STE 190, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, USA•
Science museum
Museums
Children's museum
Exhibit
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation is a contemporary museum located in the Funk Zone. It offers interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, and the arts. Visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences such as art workshops, experimenting with a 3D printer, and exploring various themed areas like Tech Track and Sound Track. This family-friendly museum aims to spark interest in the sciences through engaging activities for both adults and children.
If you're traveling to Santa Barbara with kids, this is a must-visit! There are plenty of activities for children from preschool to elementary school age, and it's a place where kids can have so much fun they won't even notice the time passing. There were various activities and equipment that sparked their curiosity, along with programs they could actively participate in.
봄날 — Google review
Amazing place! Your kids will be very happy! The museum has three floors of different educational activities. There is a special place for crawling babies and toddlers. It has an arts and crafts room. Kids can play with water on the top of the roof. There is a parking lot right next to it. First 75 minutes are free and then it’s $3 per hour.
We had so much fun in here. Really recommend it, there is so much to do. My 7 year old had the time of his life. Also the view of Santa Barbara is beautiful on the roof top.
Moxie and Santa Barbara was a great experience. I think that it was not really geared towards toddlers under two years old. We did have a great time once we found the water table on the roof and the toddler play area. But a lot of the exhibits were a little bit Geared towards older kids. I’d love to come back when our toddler is a little bit older.
The parking situation is a little bit odd for this location as there’s no parking garage and we took grandparents who were disabled and had to walk all the way around the building and up the ramp to get in. I guess I just make sure that you have a game plan ahead of time for where you’re dropping folks off and how you’re getting disabled people into the place if you happen to bring some
this is an awesome museum. Definitely recommend for kids so many different activities and things they could think about and learn the price is expensive but if you have an EBT card, it brings the price way down but either way definitely should go to this place if you have kids plan on spending one or two hours. I even had a great time as an adult. It’s fun for everybody.
MOXI offers an immersive experience and an excellent spot for families and curious minds with hands-on exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Great to spend at least 2 hours of your time here.
Rooftop Sunset has stunning views of Santa Barbara.
It says that the museum is for curious minds of all ages. I spent $60 for teenagers and one adult and this is definitely a children’s museum for kids 10 and under. We are visiting from out of town and i thought it would be a fun stop. We spent about 30 minutes inside. I would have preferred to spend 60 bucks on lunch. This would be a wonderful place for toddlers and elementary school age kids. It’s really fantastic for little kids. Great place, but they should change the description. It should be called a children’s museum. Beautiful building. If I had toddlers, I’d buy a membership and come here all the time.
It's a really exciting kids museum - so many unique and interesting experiences and workshops. So not only for kids but also for parents it will be a very interesting place to spend a nice time together with loved ones. Definitely recommend and not only for one time.
125 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Hiking area
Inspiration Point is a popular hiking destination in Santa Barbara, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and Santa Ynez Mountain peaks. There are different routes to reach the 1,800-foot terminus, with options for moderate hikes ranging from 3.5 to 8 miles round trip. The trail provides panoramic vistas of Santa Barbara and the coastline.
Classic Santa Barbara hike. Outstanding views along the entire way, especially when you get to Inspiration Point itself. First quarter of the hike is fairly easy, slight incline, but on a paved road. After crossing the bridges, terrain is more traditional. The hike itself is moderate difficulty. Heart and breath rate will climb a bit, but nothing extreme. Best to come on a weekday or early morning to grab parking and avoid crowded trails. Highly recommend!
Ray K — Google review
A little less than 4 miles total to/back Inspiration Point from Tunnel rd trailhead. First mile was open fire/paved road, then then 2nd mile was single-track with surprisingly quite a lot of shade (75%), so even though it’s a bit steep, it’s not actually that difficult even for kids. The view at top is sudden and sweeping, you know you’re nearly there when you near the power line towers.
This place is beautiful and perfect for break time,
Easy to moderate hike with plenty of vistas along the way. Midway through the hike is a tree-shrouded Canyon that offers a relaxing and tranquil experience before the steepest part of the ascent to the point where all your effort is rewarded with spectacular views of the sweeping costal mountain range, Santa Barbara, Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands.
One of my favorite places. 3.8 miles out and back. Stay left at every fork to go to the point. The first bit is paved, then you get into some dirt climbs. Be ready for dogs and dust. The creek runs in the winter. At the top intersection, continue straight across the fire road and then take the right turn past some rocks for 200+ degrees of beautiful view. On a clear calm day, you can count all the channel islands.
A fun hike with a nice view. Approx 45min to 1hr to the top. The top view point isn't clearly marked and trail is a bit difficult to find if you haven't been before, but we made it up for a nice sunset view.
Great hike. Well traveled trail and extremely busy on the weekends. If walked at a good pace, it is a good workout. Dog friendly.
Nice hiking experience. It is pretty straightforward and easy to hike all the way to the inspiration point. We parked our car on the shoulder of the road (on weekends, it's a little bit hard to find a spot) and from where we parked to the inspiration point was an altitude difference of roughly 1000 feet. Bring water at least 0.5 liter if it is a relatively hot day (closer to 90 °F). The ascend took approximately 60 minutes and the descent was half of that. The trails are almost well marked, sometimes you get forks that you don't know which one to take. We generally took left on the forks and so I guess we were hiking easily. If you take the other ones they will get you to other parts. I didn't see any restroom along the way, so that's that!! Good luck and enjoy a friendly hike!
Tunnel Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA•
Public beach
Nature & Parks
Park
Beaches
Arroyo Burro Beach County Park, also known as Hendry's Beach, is a popular oceanfront destination in Santa Barbara. It's beloved by locals for its dog-friendly policy and amenities like dog-washing stations. The park offers a picturesque stretch of sand where visitors can sunbathe, swim, surf, and even whale watch. With grassy areas for picnicking and on-site grills available, it's an ideal spot for outdoor gatherings with family and friends.
Great place!
Very good for families with kids.
There are bathrooms, beach showers.
The park has picnic area, grills, place for games.
Left side of the beach allows dogs. There is a self service dog wash.
It has a beautiful overview (the stairs to it are behind the restaurant). The restaurant is pretty good with indoor and outdoor seating with good view.
Free parking. During high season might be difficult to find a parking spot.
Kate — Google review
Very nice dog Beach. You can keep walking south for miles to find beautiful desolate beaches and caves. Dogs are able to be off leash. Parking is limited though so you have to get lucky to find a spot if arriving after the morning. There is a cool look out spot at the top of the stairs. That's where I took my pictures. I would highly recommend this place.
Love this dog beach — we come here often! Great space for dogs to run and swim, and the vibe is always friendly. Only downside: sometimes there’s oil tar on the sand, so be ready to clean paws after. Still one of our favorite spots!
One of our favorite beach spots. Dog friendly, leash free on the south beach, great walking with the occasional hang glider to entertain you. Restaurant is pricy but good. Parking can be tricky.
Beautiful beach, we sat and saw dolphins going up and down.
Great waves for body boarding, I tried body surfing lol
Nearby parking and restaurant (awesome burger btw 🍔) plus a reasonable free public WC
Love this beach! There's an off leash area where they can play in the surf, and an easy to use washing station near the overflow parking to get all the salt off. Everyone was very responsible and friendly!
We went to have dinner at Boat House at Henry’s Beach and the food was really good and the drinks too. The ambiance was perfect. They don’t take advance reservations so make sure you go with plenty of time. We went on a Friday night and the wait time was 1.5 hours.
It's a great dog Beach, free parking, nice self pay dog wash, would be absolutely perfect if not for sooooo much TAR, my God! Our dog had a great time but it was honestly not worth the time it took to clean her paws and fur after. Took 2 hours with dawn soap and coconut oil, plus our own feet and shoes. Such a mess. Will most definitely not be back.
2981 Cliff Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, USA•
Create your ultimate travel itinerary
Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Theaters
The Lobero Theatre, California's oldest operating theater, is a historic gem known for its intimate ambiance and top-notch programs. Established in 1873 by Jose Lobero, it emphasizes community-based events and hosts various performing arts organizations in Santa Barbara. The venue offers rental space for concerts, conferences, film screenings, galas, lectures, and more. From ballet to contemporary music performances, the theater presents a diverse range of shows.
Beautiful theater and wonderful staff. We saw Leo Kottke. Enjoyed the premium seating reception!
Jeffrey S — Google review
Really great place. Perfect for Asleep at the Wheel the act we saw. I believe it started in 1875 or so, great upkeep, lights, sound.
Great performances from bands, theater and plays. Venue has great sound and lighting!
The Lobero Theatre is a beautiful old theatre in Santa Barbara. It is celebrating its 100th anniversary in Aug with Jackson Brown playing. Good acoustics and every seat is good. We sat in the back row for this sold out concert.
Went to see “Our House “ a band of friends and family of CSNY. I especially went to see my school friend, Astrid Young ( Neil Young’s sister). It was a great concert and all the musicians were excellent.
Wonderful as always! The heat lamps in the tent worked like a charm!
I wasn't expecting Colin Quinn to have so many sci-fi premises in his set, but I really appreciated it.
The opener, Brian Kiley, was batting a thousand and even made Mr. Quin sweat when he came on.
They even comp'd me tickets to an awesome show! I love this place!
Such an awesome up close dialogue with world class chamber performers!
Equally great for music, comedy, and acrobatic performances.
I participated in a recent charity event at the Lobero. Enjoyed the chance to perform at this legendary venue and the crew and facility were excellent.
Thank you all for the countless supporters, volunteers and artist that bring these shows to life! It brings vibrant joy to the community.
What an awesome historic theatre. Saw John Waters here. Everyone who worked there was amazing.
33 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Whale watching tour agency
Boat tour agency
Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure with Condor Express Whale Watching. With an experienced crew, the 75-foot catamaran takes you into the Santa Barbara Channel for a chance to spot magnificent creatures such as gray whales migrating from Alaska to Baja California between February and May, and humpback, blue, and fin whales from May to September. The 4.
The wife and I had a Great trip today on the Condor Express!! Saw 7 minke whales and 3 humpbacks!! Really nice tail fluke showings too! Kudos to the crew for going really far out there as it made the difference in seeing those humpbacks. We also saw hundreds if not thousands of dolphins and some sea lions, a sunfish floating at the surface and maybe even a seal back near the dock. Lot of good bird life as well. Would highly recommend these guys!
Lael R — Google review
Enjoyed an excellent whale watching trip this past Saturday, my second trip this year. The Santa Barbara channel is one of natures treasures and I can highly recommend this adventure for anyone who loves the natural world. On both trips we experienced close up encounters with several humpback whales (and one curious sea lion!) along with a variety of sea birds and on our way back into harbor several sunbathing harbor seals.
The Condor Express is a very seaworthy twin hulled vessel powered by saltwater jet engines so, there are no propellers to harm inquisitive whales, dolphins, etc. Consequently, we can get very close to whatever sea mammals we find.
My hats off to the captain, Dave, the galley crew, Aspen, and Becky one of the excellent tour guides.
Wow. We saw many humpback whales, tons of dolphins all around our boat throughout the day, sea lions, and minke whales. The crew were friendly and informative, and the boat itself was clean and well maintained. These photos were taken with my phone, during just one trip on the Condor Express! Couldn't be happier. Kids loved it too.
Absolutely amazing experience, I never imagined we would get such incredible views of humpback whales. The captain was so skilled at following the whales without disturbing them and got us some of the most breathtaking views I could imagine. One of the best experiences of my life.
I love Condor Express! I've been many times. The price tag per person looks high, but I've never had a bad time and you get 4.5 hours on the water. The volunteers are great, staff are nice, there's a kitchen on the boat, and a double-decker boat with great views from anywhere. Over my trips, I've seen thousands of dolphins, sea lions, mola mola, a blue shark, humpback whale breaches, orcas, minke whales, and a blue whale. Plus, you get amazing views of the channel islands and the SB coast. Every time I'm in SB I try to make a trip with them. Never been disappointed. My pictures this trip weren't that great since I didn't bring my nicer camera. If you can, this is a photographer's paradise.
First impression at ticketing desk was disappointing. The staff seemed annoyed and unfriendly. The tour itself was miserable. It was cold and no whale sightings. The boat needs an update and heat for colder days, especially for the price of the tour.
Amazing experience, we saw two beautiful humpback whales🥰. We loved them and the dolphins! The crew was great and very friendly. The naturalists on board explained us about the whales, thank you!. I would 100% recommend Condor Express Santa Barbara 💕💕💕
My whale watching adventure with the Condor Express was unforgettable! The trip lasted 4 hours and felt both safe and exciting. The boat had a bar and food service, which made the experience even more comfortable.
On board, there were professional guides and naturalists who shared fascinating information about whales and marine life. During the journey, we were lucky enough to see whales, dolphins, and seals, making it a true ocean adventure. The Condor Express is a fantastic way to explore the beauty of the Pacific and learn about its incredible wildlife. 🌊🐬🐋
301 West Cabrillo Boulevard, Santa Barbara Harbor, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
The Moreton Bay Fig Tree in Santa Barbara is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Dating back to 1876, this iconic tree spans over 170 feet, making it one of the largest of its kind in the country. Its sprawling roots and enchanting canopy create a peaceful oasis just minutes from downtown Santa Barbara's State Street. With historical significance dating back to its planting in 1877, this 120-year-old tree is designated as a notable historic interest.
Stumbled upon the Moreton Bay Fig Tree in Santa Barbara completely by accident — I was just looking for cigarettes and ended up finding a little vape shop. And then boom, this massive tree appears out of nowhere right in the middle of the street. It’s not one of those overly touristy spots with signs and crowds — you’re just driving, and suddenly there’s this ancient, gigantic tree next to what I think was a railway track. No tourists, no noise, just this majestic thing standing there. Super impressive, honestly. Made my day.
Antoine P — Google review
Impressive tree. Really amazing.
Came here for the virtual geocache. Unfortunately only one of the informational plaques was still there (or visible, anyway; there might be another under the low branches on the train side).
And the fence, although understandable that it needs to be there, made it kind of difficult to see the tree well.
Needs better signage and a nicer fence.
This tree, I touched when I was a kid. It's protected now with a fence. Too many homeless people cracked out laying on the sidewalk.
The most amazing tree you've ever seen in your entire life. But it's completely surrounded by a chain link fence, and you have to walk about a mile from the closest parking
A must see tree. It’s behind the rail station and blocked off but worth it, it’s massive
Did you know this is the oldest fig tree in the world? And it's located in Santa Barbara! It really is a shame that it's been neglected and carved up- hence the fence, however you're still able to peer past the chain link fence and stand in awe of the ginormous tree with it's imposing limbs and plentiful figs. If you're in the downtown area and would like to do some exploring, this is for you.
So glad I came to see this rare gem. I ❤️ trees. They give me hope for this planet. I follow a YT’er (Max and Occy) and he has an over 500 y.o. Moreton Fig on his 5 acres in 🇦🇺. I visit this one every summer.
Unfortunately, not all respect the earth and this tree would be ruined if it weren’t for the chainlink fence surrounding it’s space. Wish SB would do better to protect it and make it more beautiful.
Wow! This fig tree is massive. Located right next to the bus terminal. Really easy to find. The tree casts a giant shade where you can take pictures and just cool off a bit. If you never seen a giant fig tree before, you have to see this one. I would check it out again if I'm in the area.
I post honest reviews and pictures of places we visit. Give me a like if you find it helpful.
Chapala St &, W Montecito St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Garden
Historical landmark
Casa del Herrero, also known as the House of the Blacksmith, is a historic Spanish Revival estate located in Montecito. Built in 1925, this landmark offers tours of its meticulously appointed home filled with 15th and 16th Century Spanish artifacts and art from Spain's 'Golden Age.' The estate is set on 11 acres featuring Moorish-inspired gardens that contribute to its National Historic Landmark status.
We had a lovely tour today. The house is extremely beautiful and authentic to the family’s history, with all the original furnishings still on display. Your tour, although slightly more expensive than Hearst Castle ($50 vs $30), is far less crowded as it is only 10 of you going through the entire house and grounds.
I found it to be more interesting and authentic than our visit to Hearst Castle yesterday as a result. Although I very much enjoyed the grandeur of that as well.
I’m surprised that more people are not coming here, an excellent stop on your visit!
Highly recommended.
Lawrence D — Google review
Rose was an amazing guide! she was kind & knowledgeable. Ainsley was also very friendly & helpful! we loved our time here & can’t wait to come back! we came beginning of april & the wisteria was in full bloom! such a beautiful stop we highly recommend.
We truly enjoyed touring this Spanish beauty - rich in history and full of charming details. It was a pleasure to be part of its story, even if just for a brief visit.
A 1920s house built by a famous inventor, the Spanish architecture of a famous architect, decorated with furniture and artifacts from an old house in Spain. The gardens are a National Historic place.
The Casa Del Herrero (House of the Blacksmith) is a Time Machine back to the 1920’s and 30’s in Montecito, CA. Wrapped in the history, stories, and amazing facts of a time few of us think about.
From handmade tiles to ceilings transported from churches in Italy, this home is made of magic. Thought and attention to detail is applied to every inch of the grounds, including the garden used for moonlit strolls under the full moon.
A home filled with love, artistry, and community (And a workshop that made me green with jealousy). This place is a reminder of just what a home can be. More than just walls keeping the weather out but a fanciful world that provides rest and creativity, inspiring others even when the owners are long gone.
If you get a chance to do the 90-minute tour you need to. It's a magical experience!
Beautiful spanish furniture inside the home. No pictures allowed inside only outside. Too bad! Great detail went into the customizing the home.
Great location for a get-together with friends. Friendly staff. Very clean property.
Looking forward to hosting my 360 booth here again.
Definitely a cool spot if you are into architecture. The house is filled with antiques from different places and is very unique, everything seems to have a story.
1387 E Valley Rd, Montecito, CA 93108, USA•
Aquarium
Zoos & Aquariums
Museum
Natural history museum
Science museum
Nestled on the picturesque Stearns Wharf, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center is a treasure trove for marine enthusiasts and families alike. This interactive aquatic exploration center invites visitors to dive into the wonders of California's marine life through engaging exhibits. From touching live sharks in the shark touch pool to exploring the fascinating Intertidal Wonders exhibit, where you can get hands-on with starfish and other tidepool creatures, every corner offers an adventure.
It's a cute little Aquarium. Very little Its comparable to my old high schools Aquarium program. No, it's nothing big or anything major. I just like to support local businesses and this type is close to the heart.
It's got touch tanks and some people giving educational speeches about the wild life that live on our coast..
We took our baby for his birthday and he loved it! (He's 1), my husband asked "this is it? " 😆 🤣 😂
Guys, it's nothing fancy. If you want to just waste some time or take the Littles then sure why not! Only 15$ to get in and that goes towards the Aquarium so I'm all for it.
It's got an upstairs too with some more tanks. The projector room it also up there so it made the whole room look like you're under the sea. With our baby, it took us 45 min to see everything. I think 20 min would be pretty standard for the average visit. It's not the Aquarium of the Pacific or Monterey Bay Aquarium.... it's a tiny but cute Aquarium.
G K — Google review
Small Museum, but very cool.
Loved the "pet a shark" tank. The museum docent for the shark tank was full of fun facts about the sharks and very friendly. I got to pet a tiger shark and a sting ray.
They also had a really interesting shallow waters exhibit with star fish, sea anemones, sea snails, sea cucumbers, and sea urchins. The museum docent for that exhibit was fantastic. She gave a lot of information about the animals and thier habitats.
For a small Museum, there's a lot for people to see.
It felt small, but the kids got so into the experience, we spent an hour and a half there! They have touch pools and specimen collection on the bottom floor, the kids literally pulled up buckets of "sea pork" and other sea life to study under microscopes! The top floor had tanks, and a room where they could simulate swimming under water. And of course, the kinetic sand was a huge hit! I enjoyed the views from the top floor and the staff that clearly love what they do there. We will be back!
It looks small but there is more than I expected. Fun little aquarium with plenty of interactive exhibits that children will love. If you have a WIC or SNAP benefits card with matching ID, tickets would only be $3 a person.
My boys and I had so much fun. The staff was amazing, they took time answering every single questions my boys asked. Small place, upstairs was interesting but the touch tank is where the kids had a blast.
We took our 4 year old who had an absolute blast but there was enough in this small Sea Center to interest the adults as well (enough that I didn't snap many photos as I was following my little one and listening to the docents!) The interactive areas were highlighted with great docents. Educated but even more impressively warm and engaging, especially to the little ones. 100% would recommend spending some time at this location on the wharf. Quick shot of the Moon Jelly tank...
The Sea Center is small but perfect for toddlers and young children. My two toddlers loved the little aqarium tunnel and being able to touch the sea creatures!
Absolutely fantastic wonderful exhibits well-informed staff beautiful a great value
211 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Create your ultimate travel itinerary
Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.
Beach
Nature & Parks
Butterfly Beach, situated in Montecito just east of Santa Barbara, is a stunning sandy beach known for its scenic views and natural beauty. The beach is bordered by a bike path adorned with flowers that attract butterflies, making it a picturesque spot to take a leisurely stroll or bike ride. Visitors can enjoy the proximity to upscale resorts and the vibrant Coral Casino while taking in the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets due to its unique west orientation.
Butterfly beach is a beautiful beach in Santa Barbara with some of the most best views of the water and many other houses/nice properties. It is definitely worth it to come walk/sit in this area at some point if you visit Santa Barbara.
Alan R — Google review
Was swayed by tiktok to go to this beach and it was beautiful but the water has tar in it that took a while to scrub off my feet and totally ruined my sandals. I’m new to the pacific coast beaches but it was quite unpleasant. Otherwise great views and free street parking.
Relatively not crowded beach with easy access. We witnessed a wedding solemnization. My boyfriend and I spent all afternoon painting 🖼️!I totally recommend this beach for a chill time by the water. Very family friendly and very clean. I will be sure to return the next time I am in the area!
It’s a pretty dog friendly beach but keep in mind there are no restrooms
Beautiful beach with free street parking. Some paved walking path choices and space on the beach to walk as well. A gorgeous place to see the sunset!
Great beach with a narrow shoreline. Perfect for a quick scuba dive. Visibility can be hit or miss, but it makes for easy shore dive.
This is a great small and Long Beach where people bike, walk, run, and eat meals. It’s gorgeous, but no shade cover so it’s a bit hot. Also, you can walk all along the shore, which is really nice. There are tons of surfers here too so it must be a great place to surf!
Beautifully quiet and serene beach. Not crowded at all and plenty of space. Ample street parking, even on 4th of July. We have been here a few times now and it’s our new favorite beach when visiting the area. Dog friendly and perfect for a family picnic. Hidden gem in Santa Barbara.
Public beach
Nature & Parks
Beaches
Leadbetter Beach is a popular city beach in Santa Barbara, known for its white sand, grass lawn, and full-service amenities. It's situated near Santa Barbara City College and attracts college students and international visitors. The beach offers picnic areas, showers, restrooms, and a massive public parking lot. It's a favorite spot for sun worshippers, surfers, windsurfers, and those looking for beach walks.
Just had an amazing paddle session at Leadbetter Beach in Santa Barbara! If you’re looking for that perfect intermediate spot with easy beach access, this is it. We brought our Pau Hana Endurance boards and had a blast paddling through glassy waters, spotting dolphins in the kelp forests. The views of the coastline are incredible, and being only 1.5 hours from LA makes it a perfect day trip. Great for fitness paddling or just enjoying nature, but definitely bring your PFD and some paddling experience - this isn’t a complete beginner spot.
Location: Positioned north of the Marina, with East Beach to the south, Leadbetter Beach offers a quintessential Santa Barbara paddling experience. The beach provides stunning views of the entire coastline.
Accessibility: Incredibly convenient parking, just 20 feet from the sand. Easy gear transport with minimal hassle. The gentle slope of the beach makes for straightforward launching.
Conditions: During our visit, we enjoyed perfect paddling weather - winds under 5mph, air temperature around 70°, water in the low 60s. The glassy surface created mirror-like reflections, turning an ordinary paddle into something almost transcendent.
Skill Level: Best suited for intermediate paddlers. The open ocean setting requires some experience reading swells and navigating light breaks. This isn’t your protected beginner’s pond - you’ll need to understand basic ocean dynamics.
Board Recommendations: Pau Hana Endurance VFT and Endurance Ricochet performed beautifully here. Their displacement hulls cut efficiently through the water while maintaining stability - ideal for both fitness paddling and nature exploration.
Experience: Paddling north around the point reveals the full panorama of Santa Barbara’s beautiful coastline. We encountered dolphins and fish weaving through kelp forests - the kind of California paddling experience people dream about. We paddled north specifically to have the wind at our backs on the return trip. The rhythmic paddling, warm sun, and salt air create a natural escape from everyday stress.
Safety Considerations: Always bring a PFD and leash. Check wind and swell forecasts before heading out. Being open ocean, conditions can change, so maintain awareness of currents and wind direction.
Progression Path: Start at the protected marina for basics, graduate to Leadbetter for intermediate skills, then tackle East Beach if you’re seeking waves and surf.
Post-Paddle Amenities: Convenient outdoor showers for rinsing off. Walking distance to excellent State Street restaurants and cafes - the perfect way to refuel after a session on the water.
Proximity: Only 1.5 hours from Los Angeles, making it an ideal day trip destination when city life becomes too much.
This spot delivers that rare combination of accessibility and authenticity that’s increasingly hard to find in popular coastal towns. Well worth the drive.
Pau S — Google review
Breathtaking Beach. Good vibes. Lots of people just enjoying their day out here. Plenty of restrooms and tables. Grills. Sitting areas with grass and shady palms. Incredible views all the way around. Accessible via bike trail and plenty of parking otherwise.
Was really interesting landscape in the tide pools. Lots of sea urchins and hermit crabs. Love the the huge tree with tons of cormorants. I'll post some pics of them along with the review. Lots of traffic to this beach and there wasn't as much wildlife as i expected but still very with the trip.
Stayed only briefly when visiting in July, because massive amounts of seaweed had piled up all over the entire beach, covering most of the sand, with sand flies all over it. Beautiful location otherwise, and maybe the seaweed is better in other months.
Found a little restaurant on tue beach. Was able to put my feet in the sand while enjoying a couple of fish tacos.
We stopped here to kill time while waiting for a friend. The morning was pretty overcast and grey but there were a few groups of dolphins playing in the surf along with a sea lion. Was fun to watch. Very peaceful.
This is a full on beach, long soft sandy beach to enjoy, beautiful park facility, excellent lifeguard stations, maintained outdoor, easy to find public showers, toilets.
The bike path, which accesses this beach leads to and from the city center hotel district, for a swim safari if you are a fly in type. The SB City college across the street, is quite a structure to embrace this atmosphere as well as to the Yacht harbor ambiance, sailboat racing marina close to downtown. In my opinion this beach is the #1 beach in Santa Barbara. Im opinionated of course.
The swimming area which I've swam, and surfed, can be stretched to a 3.2 miles swim if you lap the front beach, then on the second lap swim out to the second farthest bouy, which took for me on a day with a swell, surfers were surfing there too, about two hours, which I'll suggest watch out for the outside currents, stay within the marked swim bouys. I went off course, racing a couple of other swimmers, and found it was challenging to manage a beach swim bouy, reentry to jettison back to less current, safely towards this beach. But fun, because I enjoyed the self made, challenge.
The showers and toilets are well maintained with ample parking, easy access from the public streets with Shoreline Cafe, on the ready to serve up a variety of quick food, many delicious options, and sheltered seating for a relaxing day with your loved ones at a beach restaurant. While viewing the beautiful blue sea, kite, foil boarding and sailing are all possible here, which on a summer Wednesday you can see all out with the afternoon breezes getting their kicks, out there.
Night moves is a community social athletic club like function, with out the clubhouse, they bring the band in to the park and set up a Summer nautical place, for all walkers and swimmers interested in gathering up the adrenaline vibe to make an evening to remember by competing and socializing together as a peaceful sunset kicks the day along towards evening time.
Great place to kick back and take in the beautiful ocean and islands, go for a long walk, get wet, kayak, or sit and have a quick bite to eat and a drink. From here, you can take a nice long walk up along connecting Shoreline Park and get a better ocean view from the Mesa.
C832+3MG, 801 Shoreline Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, USA•
Park
Historical landmark
The Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens, a stunning Spanish Colonial Revival building constructed in 1929, is a must-see attraction in downtown Santa Barbara. The interior boasts beautiful murals, colorful tiles, and elegant furniture that pay homage to the style of ancient missions. Visitors can enjoy free guided tours and climb to the top of the clock tower, El Mirador, for breathtaking views of the city.
Great, historic (yet still functioning) courthouse that offers spectacular views of the city and a really neat mural room. It is free and in an accessible part of town. It is free and I would highly recommend coming here if on a trip to Santa Barbara. There is also a really nice green lawn area surrounding the building.
Alan R — Google review
We visited Santa Barbara Courthouse and were blown away—it turned out to be a stunningly beautiful and historic place. We didn’t expect a courthouse to be such a hidden gem, but the architecture, the details, and the overall atmosphere really made an impression.
It’s actually so picturesque that we’re now considering it as a potential wedding venue for us! Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!
The Santa Barbara Courthouse is hands-down one of the most beautiful and romantic places to say “I do” in California. As a California wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing many love stories here, and it never loses its magic. The Spanish-style architecture, lush gardens, and golden light make it feel like a dreamy European escape—without ever leaving the coast.
Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a small ceremony with loved ones, this location offers so much charm and elegance. The Mural Room alone is breathtaking, and the grounds provide endless photo opportunities in every direction.
If you’re dreaming of a stress-free, stunning place to get married, the Santa Barbara Courthouse is such a special choice. Every time I photograph a wedding here, it feels like stepping into something timeless and effortlessly romantic.
It was really nice visiting the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens. The architecture is stunning, with beautiful tile work, archways, and a peaceful garden area perfect for walking or relaxing. Don’t miss the opportunity to go up to the clock tower but keep in mind it closes at 4:45 PM. From the top, you get a gorgeous 360° view of Santa Barbara, including the ocean, mountains, and red tiled rooftops. It’s a fun, free, and relaxing way to enjoy the city and learn a bit about its history at the same time. Great spot for photos, too.
The most beautiful courthouse with gorgeous surroundings! Grab your camera and explore! Be sure to go to the top of the tower for a great view of Santa Barbara! All free!
Came here just to take photos of the murals, and tile work, and enjoy the views of Santa Barbara from the tower. Did not disappoint! Can't believe I have never been here before!
This was one of the coolest places I have ever been! Almost feels like going to a museum- so much history to took at and lean about!
Beautiful place. You can climb up the tower. There is a great view of the city from there! Admission is free.
1100 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Sightseeing tour agency
Tour operator
The Santa Barbara Trolley, operated by the Santa Barbara Trolley Company, offers a convenient 90-minute hop-on-hop-off tour of the city. Departing from the Visitors Center near Skaters Point Skatepark, this tour provides an easy way to explore Santa Barbara's attractions and learn about its history without worrying about parking. The fleet of renovated trolleys allows visitors to see major sights on a flexible schedule, making it ideal for families with young children or anyone wanting an overview of the city.
We weren't expecting much from the trolley ride, but boy, were we surprised! Our driver, a local with over 20 years of experience, had the best stories for each location we visited. His tales brought the city to life in a way we never imagined.
The boys had an absolute blast, and the highlight of the trip was spotting a giraffe! I won't spoil the surprise—it's something you have to see for yourself. We even got a peek at the back gate of the Beanie Baby mansion, which was such a cool and unexpected sight.
This trolley ride is truly the best way to explore Santa Barbara in under two hours. Highly recommend it for anyone looking to discover the city's hidden gems!
Karen W — Google review
I enjoyed the tour. Chuck was the guide. He did an excellent job of driving us safely and being knowledgeable about the city. Chuck is a local and shared historical information, personal stories and made excellent recommendations on food, attractions, and things to do in Santa Barbara. Enjoyed and would recommend
Our group of 7 enjoyed the SB Trolley Tour. Rusty was experienced, relaxed and thorough in his story telling. He accommodated last minute riders. The tour covered many sites. It provided a brief chance to stretch your legs at the Mission. Good value for your money.
Santa Barbara Trolley Tour (Booked via Viator.com)
We booked this tour through Viator for $28 per person (non-refundable), and I have to say — it’s an affordable, worthwhile way to see Santa Barbara and Montecito if you’re short on time. The tour runs about an hour and a half, narrated the whole way through.
Our guide, Rusty, was excellent — knowledgeable, engaging, and easy to listen to. He mixed history with fun local details, pointing out landmarks, residents, and even a few celebrity homes. His energy kept the ride interesting from start to finish.
Pro tip: Seating is a bit of a luck-of-the-draw situation. There are about four or five seats where the window is completely down — perfect for pictures. Otherwise, most windows stay up and only open a crack for air. If photos are important to you, get in line early so you can grab those open-window spots. It’s two people per bench.
The rest stop was at the historic Santa Barbara Mission. We had about 15 minutes to use the restrooms, pop into the gift shop, and take pictures of the Mission’s beautiful exterior. (The church wasn’t open during our visit, but it often is, so worth checking next time.)
Along the way, Rusty also pointed out some things I never would’ve noticed — like enormous fig trees scattered around town, a fossilized blue whale, and even a giraffe peeking its head out near the zoo! The Spanish-style architecture throughout Santa Barbara was another highlight, and being able to see so much in a short span of time made this tour feel really efficient.
Meeting & Drop-off Spot: The Garden Street Visitor Center (close to the Carousel House).
For brand-new visitors or anyone with limited time, this is a perfect introduction to Santa Barbara. Big kudos to Rusty for making it such an engaging ride.
We hired the SB Trolley company for our wedding day transportation and I'm so happy with our decision! Our planner coordinated multiple stops all throughout the day so our guests didn't have to worry about leaving their hotel to get to the church and reception, or getting back home. We got some incredible photos on our way to the ceremony, and our guests had so many funny stories about the trolleys as well it was a highlight for everyone! Thanks for the memories!
We rented the SB Trolley for our wedding this past May. We had about 86 guests that needed to get from East Beach to the Wine Cask and we thought the trolley would be a fun way to go. And it was! During the whole planning process, we had to change our original requested time and needs a few times and the staff was professional and accommodating. The trolley showed up on schedule and guests really enjoyed the ride. We also had one of our more special moments getting to ride in the trolley at sunset, just the two us, just after getting married - for sure a moment we will both never forget. For the price and the service, SB Trolley is a no brainer!
We had such a fantastic experience with Santa Barbara Trolley. The team was incredibly responsive and flexible, making everything easy to coordinate. The trolley itself was so fun, our guests loved it, and it added a special touch to our day. We couldn’t recommend them more for a seamless and enjoyable transportation experience!
After our wedding, we rented a trolley and took a fun tour around Santa Barbara and Montecito. It was an incredible experience! Our driver, Rusty (I think that’s his name), was amazing and super knowledgeable about the area. He let us listen to our favorite music, then he’d turn it down and share interesting facts and stories with us. He’d then turn it right back up again, so we could enjoy our music while learning more. 10/10 we will definitely do it again! :)
1 Garden St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Tour operator
Outdoor activity organiser
Winery
Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours offer a chance to explore the beautiful and bountiful wine country of Santa Barbara. With 28 wine tasting rooms located in different parts of town, visitors can enjoy tastings, wine education, and up-close views of winemaking facilities. The scenic drive into wine country takes less than an hour and offers incredible views along the way. Whether it's a private tour for two or a group tour, there are plenty of options to choose from.
An unforgettable private wine tour in Santa Barbara! We visited three stunning vineyards, each offering unique and exquisite wines. Lunch was a highlight—freshly made sandwiches perfectly paired with wine, with the option to mix and match with a salad.
Each vineyard featured live music, which added an extra touch of charm.
Our guide, Johannes, was exceptional—his knowledge and service made the experience truly special. Highly recommend for wine enthusiasts looking for a personalized and scenic adventure!
Kateryna — Google review
This wine tasting tour far exceeded my expectations! Our tour guide Johannes was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. We stopped at 3 amazing wineries and sampled over a dozen different and delicious wines. Our lunch was absolutely delicious and the cupcakes were exquisite. It was perfect way to spend our last day in Santa Barbara! I highly recommend this experience. If you are considering booking it, don’t hesitate. Worth every penny…and then some! Thank you for helping us build memories that we will keep with us forever!
Linda was great. She was full of knowledge and I enjoyed the sites she drove us through as much as the wineries. We enjoyed our wine tasting experience. I would recommend not having Fess Parker as part of the tour. The service there was not great. The server provided zero explanation of the wines or anything about the winery. They were unaccommodating with our group of 10. I felt like they really didn’t want us there. Vincent’s winery was the highlight due to the intimate setting and attention. The wines at Vega were good but again I felt like I learned zero about the wines or winery. I would recommend more wineries like Vincent where you could learn about the wines. It’s what I expect on a wine tour.
The Santa Yenz wine Tour was splendid. What made it so was the great tour guide Johannes! He was extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic about showing us the vineyards and the wineries. Took his time explaining various different wines and also gave great suggestions as to where to eat. Was one of the best wine 🍷 tours by far. Thank you for making my first trip to Santa Barbara extremely memorable. Will definitely look you up next time I’m n town. I’m bringing some friends along for the ride!
This was one of my favorite wine tours. I was picked up in Solvang by our wonderful guide Johannes, who was friendly and full of insight about the Santa Ynez wine region. We stopped at three wineries, Brentwood, Brickbarn, and Vega Vineyard. Each had a delicious selection of whites and reds with beautiful locations and grounds. The wines at Brentwood, a biodynamic vineyard, were my favorite. Johannes also took us to an olive oil tasting and a fun pit stop in the cute town of Los Olivos. Throughout the tour, he was great at answering our questions, and making sure all the accommodations needed by the group were met. Very kind and a wonderful guide! I would highly recommend this company for wine tours in the area.
We had the best wine tour with Chris! He went above and beyond to make sure we had the best experience! He was patient. Didn’t rush us! Made sure everything was comfortable, and even asked some of the places to accommodate my wine preferences. Places they chose were amazing. 100% recommend.
A great tour with a very knowledgeable guide and fantastic wines! Johannes was our guide and he shared a lot of interesting information on the local wine industry and the area. As a first time visitor of SB/Santa Ynez, I’m really glad I booked this tour and got to meet some wonderful people as well. I had some issues getting to my hotel in time for pickup (entirely my fault), but the team at the tour were able to direct me to the first winery and ensured I got back to my hotel safely so I could enjoy the experience. I’m very happy overall.
We had friends visiting Santa Barbara. Booked a private wine tour for nine of us. Johannes Steenkamp was our tour guide and sommelier. Johannes was excellent -- knowledgeable, informative, and good company. He took us to three wineries in the area. We thoroughly enjoyed it.
520 E Haley St Suite C, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, USA•
Create your ultimate travel itinerary
Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.
When you find yourself in Santa Barbara, make sure to stop by the vibrant Santa Barbara Chromatic Gate, a stunning 21-foot-tall art installation that captures the essence of color and creativity. Designed by the talented Herbert Bayer, this eye-catching structure is not just a feast for the eyes but also an Instagram-worthy backdrop that will elevate your travel photos. Nestled at Arco Circle along Cabrillo Boulevard, it offers a picturesque view against the blue sky and nearby palm trees.
Beautiful spot for beach view and walk
Sreyash J — Google review
Instagrammable spot. Plenty of street parking
You can park in the street, but the parking space is limited. I think it's one of the places you can visit when you travel to Santa Barbara. There is also a beautiful beach right next to this gate.
I like this little quiet area nice view of the ocean you can do some exercise while you take a little walk around the park
Its a good spot for instagram worthy pictures, and right near the beach as well. However, there is not really parking easily found near the area. If you are at East Beach it is worth it to stop by.
Beautiful photo opportunity. Right next to the beach and easily accessible. Free to enter. Parking is rough at times, but generally not hard to Access. A great place to have lunch, or stop for a rest after renting/riding electric bikes down State Street.
It a fun place to visit if you got time. Not a lot of people it a pretty calm atmosphere and a nice place to go walking.
Worth the trip very nice I love this colorful gate .
721 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, USA•
Park
Nature & Parks
Hiking Trails
Chase Palm Park is a picturesque waterfront park located in Santa Barbara, adjacent to the East Beach. The park features tall palm trees, lush grass lawns, and a paved walking and biking path along Cabrillo Boulevard. Families can enjoy various activities such as visiting the Shipwreck Playground, exploring the whale fountains and koi pond, or taking a ride on the carousel. Additionally, there are special events like summer concerts and arts & craft shows for adults to enjoy.
What a perfect spot to relax, stroll, fly a kite, read a book or just be with nature. The sound of the waves, the expansive grass area with so much green, and of course...the people watching. First thing we did after arriving in town, was to stroll along this path and take in the sights and sounds while loosening up our joints!
Richard W — Google review
The beach have a great view of the ocean, palm tree lined and the pier.
An Art & Craft Show was running at the time.
Vendors were very nice.
Is a great place to walking on the sand and having a relaxing time with sound of the waves, just be careful not to walk over the green algaes, your foot will end up with a slime and black substance that's hard to go away.
You will need water to apply on it (not Ocean Water).
I'll visiting back again in the future.
Amateur Radio Club on Field Day communicating to people around the world using just a ham radio frequency spectrum for the purposes of non-commercial exchange of messages.
Emergency communications by licensed radio operators. The event was a test over a 24-hour period, recorded and documented for a contest of how many contacts a radio operator can make. Some highly experienced radio operators only used CW or Morse Code during the event.
It have a very big playground and a very good environment but it does not have a swing,and kids love swings.
Nice park and beach. Beach has a bit of driftwood, but not a problem. Water is swimmable, surf was much lower than other beaches closer to Malibu. Plenty of parking available - $18 per day.
Excellent Park playground dog friendly clean bathrooms live music in July on Thursdays love it
Very chilled and relaxed atmosphere. Had a picnic in the park which was very nice.
A fantastic park with a pirate theme playground. The kids ran around and had a ball climbing and playing on all the structures. Safe, fun and a great design for hours of fun! If you live or are visiting Santa Barbara, put this place on your list for the kiddos!
323 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Park
Nature & Wildlife Areas
The Douglas Family Preserve, also known as the Wilcox property, is a 70-acre park in Santa Barbara offering scenic hiking paths and stunning ocean views. It is a dog-friendly destination with designated off-leash areas for furry companions to roam freely. The trails are well-marked, but visitors should be cautious of steep cliffs along the route.
This is a dog-friendly trail where dogs can be off-leash, offering incredible bluff views along the coast. The trail is clean and features plenty of seating areas to relax and enjoy some quiet time. It is surrounded by oak and eucalyptus trees, with ample parking available in the neighborhood. You'll enjoy the fresh ocean air, and there are no bugs to worry about.
AH T — Google review
I was just passing through the area while on a business trip and saw this place as a recommended stop for my dog. Even on a Friday afternoon, the parking was plentiful. The trails were nice and secluded. There were many other dog owners around with their pups off-leash and not a single problem. It was a great day!
Beautiful spot with very mild hikes and spectacular ocean views from the cliffs. Loved seeing so many dogs running around and having a great time — it really adds to the atmosphere!
Also a great place for trail running or just an easy walk with amazing scenery. Highly recommend!
The Douglas Family Preserve was an excellent park to go walk around. It is generally an easy place to walk around with lots of pretty scenery over the water. There were multiple people walking and with dogs (many off leash). It was definitely worth the trip and one of our favorite places to walk in Santa Barbara.
My dog loved being able to explore off leash. We passed many other well behaved off leash dogs. I was happy there were shaded trails. We visited twice while on vacation. I preferred the morning walk as the sun wasn't as strong. I recommend sneakers/good walking shoes. The only thing I felt was missing were some benches as we were there for a couple hours.
Nice tail smoking the coast with great views, especially during sunset. It's a bit hard to find, doesn't have dedicated parking. You can park in the residential blocks near the trail. Is dog friendly so that's a plus. Glad we came here.
Beautiful spot, with amazing views. I'd budget 45 min to an hour to explore. There are a set of stairs about 400 yards to the south of the main entrance that gets you to the beach. Tides often pretty high, so it can be a bit of a scramble along the beach. Parking can be found in the residential neighborhoods that surround the park and is free. Also a favorite place of dog walkers, so lots of our 4 legged friends.
Great spot for a walk, beautiful views of the coastline from the cliffs, birds, dogs. Basically heaven
Transportation service
Lil' Toot Santa Barbara offers a delightful and enjoyable experience for visitors in Santa Barbara, California. This bright yellow boat can accommodate up to 19 passengers and takes them on a scenic tour of various landmarks and attractions in the area. While some may find these attractions easily accessible by land, the unique perspective from the water adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience. Passengers have praised their experiences on Lil' Toot, particularly noting the friendly and accommodating staff.
We almost missed out on this gem, but thankfully, we decided to ask at the booth for tickets when we couldn't find any online. What a stroke of luck! The boat ride was an absolute blast—fun, informative, and filled with delightful surprises.
There were plenty of snacks and drinks available, including some tasty adult beverages. But the real highlight? Seeing the boys' faces light up as we got incredibly close to the sea Lions. They were over the moon! This experience was truly unforgettable and a must-do if you're in Santa Barbara. Highly recommend it for families and adventure seekers alike!
Karen W — Google review
I took my wife on the Whisper boat, the little sister boat to the Lil Toot. There were 3 couples. We had and fantastic journey through the harbor with Captain Charlie. We were all very impressed with the modern/quiet boat and Captain Charlie. I did get a photo of the Lil Toot when we passed.
What a great, short ride from the pier (wharf) to the harbor. Captain, crew and shore hands were great, friendly and helpful. Saw sea lions, movie star's boat and beautiful Santa Barbara from an unusual vantage point.
Such a cute little boat 🛥️! The captains were so friendly 😄 and made sure we were having a great time the whole ride. It was really nice to just chill and enjoy the water 🌊☀️.
There aren’t many places to go around the bay, but the loop is still fun and relaxing 🎶🍹. It’s a small circle, but with the right company and the peaceful vibe, it’s totally worth it.
Perfect little escape if you want to unwind and enjoy the scenery 💙⛵
We had the best time on Lil’ Toot today! The staff were warm and pleasant (and so funny!)— the ride felt super safe, even on a very windy afternoon. My 4 and 7 year old were squealing from laughter as we made our way over the choppier areas. It was fantastic! We loved getting to see the seals and sea lions close up! We can’t wait to return!
Must try with kids in Santa Barbara! Friendly staff cater to the little and wildlife spotting almost guaranteed. We hit the jackpot and saw the SB Big 3, dolphins, sea lions and seals all within 20 minutes. Thank you crew!
Great short boat ride with cheap on board drinks and a chance to see the seals and sea lions! We love you lil toot 💖
We had a great time kicking off the Christmas Season with Lil Toot at the Santa Barbara Holiday Boat Parade! Our club - Santa Barbara Social Club will definitely book another cruise in the future.
237 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Museum
Gift shop
Specialty Museums
The Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum & Library in Santa Barbara is a delightful attraction for families and toy enthusiasts. Founded by retired librarian Susan Quinlan, the museum boasts an extensive collection of teddy bears and dolls gathered over three decades. Recently relocated to larger premises, the museum features rotating exhibits alongside its regular display cases. Visitors can also enjoy a complimentary tearoom while exploring the charming collection.
We emailed Susan so we could go on a Tuesday. It was super easy and she was lovely and knowledgeable about the history of the food. We had the museum to ourselves and were shocked how many rooms there were. Several of the dolls sparked really good conversations with my children.
Krista R — Google review
Wow, this place has so many more dolls than you expect. They are grouped by themes. The owner was available for questions, and she was able to answer even quite specific questions. We were able to help her out too. We recognized a couple of puppets, who were made by my wife's grandmother, Pamelia McIntire. She didn't know the name, but knew she was from San Diego.
It is the most fabulous and amazing doll & bear museum! The vast extent of the collection and the variety was beyond belief.We are toy collectors and have visited other toy museums, but this one was the best! So thoughtfully displayed and fascinating! Susan was such a wonderful guide and engaging. My wife wanted to move in and live among the dolls and bears. A truly wonderful experience!
amazing store and incredibly knowledgeable lady. Totally recommend to spend some hours in there!
Really cool museum! We were greeted by Susan herself at the front; there are literally thousands of dolls and teddy bears from all over the world, as well as toys of every kind. Great way to relive your inner child and definitely one of a kind!
Highly recommend, even over attractions like the Presidio
It is absolutely vital that you reserve your tickets online, especially if your visit is on a weekend. I came on January 2 at 11:30 and the line was wrapped around the building. My sister had come at 10, right when the museum opens, and she also mentioned that the line wrapped around the building.
I love this museum! I’ve come back several times because there is so much to see and the owner is so knowledgeable. The gift shop is a real gem as well. Lots of dolls and toys at reasonable prices. I recommend it!
A magical place filled with magical things :)
You can spend a whole day here and still not see all the wonderful toys and dolls that line the cases. Susan’s collection of artist dolls and teddy bears is breathtaking. Definitely a “must do” in Santa Barbara.
122 W Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Create your ultimate travel itinerary
Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.
Beach
Hendrys Beach, also known as Arroyo Burro Beach, is a serene coastal retreat nestled in Santa Barbara that beckons nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Surrounded by the picturesque Douglas Family Preserve, this hidden gem offers stunning hiking trails and breathtaking ocean vistas. The rugged coastline features fascinating tide pools where visitors can spot playful dolphins and seals, making it an ideal destination for wildlife watchers.
Beautiful beach! Maybe not one I’d lay / lounge at but a perfect beach for walking and especially searching for sea glass! We found the most sea glass we’ve ever found at a beach here. Also love how dog friendly this beach is! Would come again!!
Abby M — Google review
Beautiful beach .Doggy friendly and even has dog wash on-site. Great restaurant as well. Parking is tough. Go early totally worth it
Went in June based on the high reviews and it was absolutely filthy. I appreciate it when any public state property can be made dog friendly but I do not recommend this beach to anyone with dogs. The off leash side is very short, because this really shouldn’t quality as a “beach”. There was a rotting seal carcass left on the sand and I was horrified as the stench around the poor animal’s dead remains was left there for dogs to interact with. This beach needs to be cleaned and checked for public health. The entire sand was covered with jumping sand fleas and flies. I don’t just mean a small part of the “beach”, I mean the entire length of the sand was covered in insects.
Great beach area. The Boathouse has an excellent happy hour. Lots of people at times, but you can also get lucky and see no crowd at all. Lots of shore to walk on depending on tides. Lots of rocks and shells to look at.
Our first little chihuahua Ollie loved it here. We actually spread hi ashes on this beach. We are back due to the Eaton fire and we now take our two young boys and two chihuahuas to Ollie's favorite SB spot. Most everyone's dogs are very well behaved.
Due to the atmospheric river storms we had, the surface of Hendry's Beach has changed. Only the truly hardy would want to try a barefoot adventure...I recommend grippy shoes or hiking boots. It's wild with rocks, boulders, and black silt sand. Not the Hendry's most locals would remember as recent as last summer. It's a brave new "stroll". Just as beautiful with an edge.
I'm given three stars because we waited one hour when there were three tables available. I asked about then and I was told they were for a large party. I asked again and was seated at one of the 3 after an hour wait. Alcoholic beverages are a no go and not at all tasty.
This is a nice, clean, and beautiful beach.
Things to know:
DOGS! YES! AND OFF LEASH so pups will be happy here.
Small amount of parking available.
Parking was free in the 2hr section.
Restaurant at entrance, a little pricy ,but great. Get the calamari.
The beach is enclosed by rock face hills.
So much fun had here.
You will love it!
Non-profit organization
Museums
Association / Organization
Foundation
The Reagan Ranch Center, also known as the Western White House, offers a deep dive into the political and personal life of Ronald Reagan. Located in Santa Barbara, this interpretive exhibition center showcases exclusive speeches, interviews, radio addresses, and video content from the former President. The facility houses a library of conservative resources and offers guided tours for an inside look at its historical significance.
My husband and I made an impromptu trip here on our day trip to Santa Barbara. The security guard posted outside was very friendly to us and invited us in as we were walking by! Upon entering we met Jim, a docent of the museum, who was such a pleasure to have as our guide!! His tour was informative and fun! He recommended a few parts of the museum that would enhance our experience! We very much enjoyed ourselves! It was a highlight of our day trip!!
Ruth M — Google review
Not a bad little museum that offers free tour guides. The volunteers that work there are brilliant and very accommodating. Worth a visit if you’re heading to/from the Fig Tree next door.
We were fortunate to have a chance to visit the Reagan Ranch again to set up 2,977 American flags for the 9/11 memorial. We really appreciate the staff at the Reagan Ranch Center and the Young America's Foundation for all the patriotic things they do and especially for making sure America never forgets the terrorist attacks that resulted in this tragedy.
Young America’s Foundation is a great organization that provides students and the public with inspiring information about America and the legacy of President Ronald Reagan.
Fortunate enough to go when there wasn't a big crowd. The volunteers were extremely knowledgeable. We were blessed to get a tour of the 3rd floor with Gil. GREAT job Gil!! We really enjoyed you sharing your knowledge on things that go unnoticed. Highly recommend stopping in when you are in the area.
Small museum that can be visited in an hour unless you spend time viewing the interactive videos. So many great memories. Not as big as the Reagan library but definitely worth a visit.
This is a very small extension of the Reagan Library located very close the beach in Santa Barbara.
It has memorabilia from his ranch and private life, and a number of other things to learn.
It's just a few minutes from the SB Zoo and easy walking distance to the main train station.
It can be seen in about 1/2 an hour. Parking is limited.
Great place to see the best orator in modern presidency. All things Rancho del Cielo
217 State St I, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Cocktail bar
Concert hall
The Arlington Theatre, a historic Mission-style venue dating back to 1931, offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary entertainment. With its Spanish village decor and starry sky ceiling, the theater hosts a diverse range of events including first-run films, stand-up comedy shows, live music performances, and award-winning plays. It is also the proud host of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. The iconic landmark's striking Spanish Colonial Revival architecture provides an ideal backdrop for photography enthusiasts.
I love old buildings. This theatre is so beautiful. My husband gave me tickets to Ali Wong for our anniversary. I was thrown off my the seat numbers but our seats were in even numbers. The inside is so different and has a relaxing vibe. I love that it's a smaller theatre and the staff are so efficient. We got in really quickly and security was tight. I really enjoyed that theatre overall.
Deena — Google review
Have been patronizing the Arlington for years, which has treated us to theatrical performances, live concerts, and movies, which all have astonished my senses due to the unique acoustics they have architecturally designed to reach any seat with gusto clarity, even to the very far reaches of this upbeat, vintage theatre.
There is a friendly staffed, ticket, will call kiosk, prior to entry.
Included upon arrival, there is conveniently located, the option to enjoy their wine and beer, brain lubrication station prior to shows, serving as a salubrious social club atmosphere as well. To participate by immersion with, even if you aren't a glass or bottle party goer type patron.
The isles are well lit, the security there are there caring for the well being of their performances responsibly and safety, there are also ushers to guide us all to our seats if necessary. Beautifully restored building, even the old kiosk is still on premises, to remind us all of our roots before online sales tickets, seating success.
Historic Sta Barbara Theatre with old cinema vibe. A historic feel is highlighted by the dated interiors within the movie area. Outside the parlor are some interesting aspects of the theatre's story. The interiors are like a museum to the extent that you would like to imagine what it would look like during better days. Apart from the ambiance and unique architecture, the rest of the experience is much of like a regular cinema in any small town.
Fantastic venue despite AXS being clunky to use. Only complaint is theater let people get seated up to 45 minutes after event started which disturbs everyone else's experience. Cool interior, ample room for seating, easy parking, good food nearby.
I LOOOOVE the Arlington Theatre!! It's old world beautiful. When I was a kid, I used to think there were people who lived in the theatre. I have seen many blockbuster movies there over the years, and a plethora of concerts (Billy Idol, Steve Perry, etc). Once upon a time, I volunteered there as a theatre docent.
The place is beautiful. The restroom has a Telephone closet! The courtyard bar and lounge area is amazing and spacious. Lots of seating.
In the lobby there is a couch that was in the movie Gone With The Wind. It's pretty cool. There are two floors. Try seeing a show from the balcony, it's pretty neat. The seats are comfortable.
I love the lights in the sky, they twinkle.
The Arlington Theatre is the theatre that is lit up every year during the Santa Barbara Film Festival as the places the stars are seen and dropped off.
On a hot day, it's pretty lovely to sit by the fountain in behind the old movie kiosk. I believe it's a historical building.
What a romantic venue! The interior reminds me of The Pirate’s of the Caribbean at Disneyland. I enjoyed our concert, Larkin and Poe. I would gladly return to The Arlington for another performance.
The Venue is nice. The seats are old and not very comfortable.
The staff was very nice as well.
Saw Jerry Seinfeld here, amazing! Second visit for me at the Arlington theater and both times were great. Concession lines weren’t too bad and it was very easy to get in and out of.
1317 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Beach
Nature & Parks
East Beach in Santa Barbara is a popular destination known for its stunning sunsets, volleyball games, and lifeguard services during the summer. It's one of the four major beaches in the area, each with its own unique appeal. While other beaches have specific draws like harbors or dog-friendly policies, East Beach stands out as a great spot to soak up the sun without dealing with large crowds. Additionally, it's home to some of the best hotels in Santa Barbara.
East Beach was great for taking a walk and enjoying the scene. The sand was clean, unlike some of the other beaches in the area that leave your feet covered in a sticky, black tar. There was plenty of parking and easy access to the beach.
Grish240 — Google review
Santa Barbara beach is a superb long sweeping stretch of sand. It is well maintained and a peaceful place where locals and tourists clearly like to spend time whether that be during the day or, catching the sunset.
Lifeguard stations are dotted along the beach as a precaution for any unplanned incidents..!
A nice place to visit or simply wall along if visiting Santa Barbara.
Chill little beach. No waves, good for small children and riding jet skis 👌🏽 there’s a small skatepark nearby also
East Beach is a lovely palm tree lined beach for tourists, and locals to hangout.
This beach is located at 34.4142°N 119.682°W. Moreover, this beach is world-famous for volleyball, as it hosts several volleyball tournaments each year.
Plenty of free street parking and affordable parking fee on lots can be found at this beach. Lifeguard towers are present as well as garbage bins. Overall, this is a great beach. I highly recommend it.
Beautiful beach adjacent from West Beach. East Beach seems to be calmer and quieter than West Beach in my opinion. Been to Santa Barbara many times and this part is absolutely brilliant. There are a few hotels /motels across the street on Cabrillo. Volleyball courts are available, the parking lots for the beach are $3 an hour per car. The Zoo and historic cemetery are are just a few blocks away. Definitely would recommend a stroll or bike ride this way!
Probably my favourite beach in Santa Barbara! Clean sand, relatively calm water, plenty of space. There is a restaurant right on the beach, as well as a children's playground, volleyball nets, and bathrooms.
Beware and stay away from the black dots on the beach, that's tar. If you unfortunately step on it (like many of us, go getting a bottle of baby oil or sunscreen spray. That will get you out of the awkward situation. Thanks bystanders for the big help!
Stunning stunning stunning beach! Especially for sunset. We were walking distance from our hotel so this was the go-to beach while in the area. Soft sand, clean coastline. Highly recommend checking out East Beach!
4.7
(275)
4.5
(61)
Mentioned on
History museum
Museums
Art gallery
Historical landmark
The Santa Barbara Historical Museum is a treasure trove of over 80,000 artifacts and objects that vividly narrate the city's history. Housed in a charming Spanish mission-style building, the museum takes visitors on a journey from the time of the Chumash people through the Spanish, Mexican, and American eras. It also delves into local stories such as the once segregated Chinese community and the city's early film production era.
Lots of information and relics from Santa Barbara' s history and some stories about the influential family who shaped the community. Largest collection of the fiestas posters of Santa barbara and its changing art through time. Lastly, a large collection of Edward Borein's artworks and some memorabilia from the Santa Barbara artist. It's a whole room of exhbit dedicated to him.
Town T — Google review
This museum was one of our stops on our tour is Santa Barbara. It has some interesting exhibits and collections and they are displayed in interesting ways. For example, we enjoyed the historic photos of downtown from the turn of the century projected on the walls of the museum. Past the museum gift shop is the Edward Borein Gallery with an excellent collection of his works. The museum is accessible, and the displays are thoughtfully done for accessibility. Street parking. The museum is also available for events and it has a beautiful courtyard for weddings!
I thought it might be helpful to future bride and grooms who may be considering getting married at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum to hear about this space from a different perspective than what you may typically read about in reviews. I would love to offer the light and lines perspective of how the Santa Barbara Historical Museum unfolds from a wedding day experience and how it presents in photography.
As someone who sees spaces in terms of light and composition, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum captures the authentic rustic elegance that Santa Barbara is known for. The property first unfolds and presents itself first with the more intimate of the two courtyards. The pergola archway with green foliage crawling throughout the thick wooden beams is the focal point to the space and makes for a beautiful ceremony location. The layers of green photograph incredibly well under this archway in either direction. I’ve photographed weddings here where the guests face the pergola and also weddings in a rotated orientation where the guests line either side of the pergola with the couple at the far end. The sunlight at this location moves in the direction of the larger courtyard, so either ceremony orientation looks spectacular.
There are so many fun layers of Spanish themes to layer in to my photographs; from the fountain in the entrance courtyard, to the Spanish overhangs and architecture, to the succulents and landscaping that runs throughout the property. One of my favorite spaces to photograph couples for golden hour is just around the corner to the Santa Barbara Historical Museum. You can see the wall textures and architectural layers in the photos I posted. Everything about this space photographs Santa Barbara’s rustic elegance. I absolutely LOVE photographing at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum!
This museum focuses mainly on history up until 1930 or so, especially the very early mission and founders eras. I found the maritime museum at the harbor has far more interesting information on later development of Santa Barbara. About half of the city history museum is dedicated to housing cowboy western art paintings. They are high quality but it is not my interest. You can't go wrong though as the entry price is "donation suggested".
The first Thursday here is amazing. It’s so nice to peruse the museum with live music! And the free wine is such a lovely touch.
We love the true American Riviera vibe of this venue. Not to mention the amazing flexibility of being able to host a full bar! Our clients love the guest experience of being in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara with the option to after party on State! With so many ways to use the spaces along with larger than average capacity, this is a go to venue for any couple looking in SB!
Came here for the Best of Santa Barbara event and it was so lovely!
Very nice museum about the Santa Barbara history. Also many beautiful paintings. Really worth a visit. Parkinglot availiable. And the best: it is free!
136 E De La Guerra St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Create your ultimate travel itinerary
Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.
4.3
(55)
4.2
(58)
Mentioned on
History museum
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, Casa de la Guerra is a beautifully preserved adobe home that dates back to the early 19th century. Built between 1818 and 1828 by José de la Guerra, a key figure during California's Mexican era, this historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the past. As the fifth military commander of the Presidio, de la Guerra played an essential role in shaping the community and his family resided here until 1943.
Free museum with the presidio it has some interesting items from the Mexican times, and also they have a rotating exhbits and during my visit, they have the Filipinos of the area.
Town T — Google review
I liked the scratches in the glass window artifact, coins, etc. and my husband liked the chess board.
Military and other discounts, plus you get free entrance to the Presidio with this ticket.
The cashier was very friendly and helpful.
Casa de la Guerra is located in the historical center of Santa Barbara, among other buildings from the Spanish domination. It's open to the public and you can walk inside for free. I recommend to take a look if you are in the area because the place is really rich of history.
This was very interesting. My wife volunteers at a similar place in San Diego, but this place lets you touch things! Kid friendly.
in keeping with Santa Barbara is Rich Spanish culture here's another hitter on Deck the kasa did I get the house of the war
Read a lot about the house and its residents, yada yada. Drove up from l.a. to check it out. I was shocked to see it lost in a sea of "white limed" buildings all banking on the house's history. Rising up behind the house, unlike most photos of it, is some kind of hotel with balconies of smoking visitors. No blue sky anywhere. Just terrible. Saw a homeless scumbum waiting for his next handout/assault victim, and so decided to escape with my wallet, if not my naive "mission project" conception of historic california.
This is a really great rustic old historical church building. We attended a wedding for some close friends and had a wonderful time in this historic building.
Open to public and situated in the heart of Old Town Santa Barbara. It was very neat to see but there where several homeless men sleeping on the grounds and in several rooms.
15 E De La Guerra St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Park
Nature & Parks
Alameda Park, situated in downtown Santa Barbara, is a historic and tranquil two-block park with well-maintained gardens, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The park features a vintage bandstand and rare trees that add to its charm. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, or partake in the various events held throughout the year such as festivals and concerts.
This park is so nice and beautiful. I’d definitely recommend taking your kiddos to play here. Lots of space for them to run around. The playground area is completely fenced in which is great! There’s also bathrooms near the playground.
Briana L — Google review
Such a gorgeous, vibrant, marvelous park and meticulously maintained. Really enjoyed my morning walk there before I hopped on my flight back east. If only Jacksonville, Florida took a page from Santa Barbara on parks!
This is a gorgeous park. When we went, it was clean and well maintained. The trees are stunning. The playground is beautiful. I wish I had a better picture of the actual playground.
Beautiful park for events, no kings day was awesome!
Alameda Park is adjacent to the Alice Keck Park. The Keck covers one square block. The Alameda covers two square blocks, but the two parts of the Alameda Park are quite different from each other. The part of the Alameda Park that's adjacent to the Keck Park has picnic areas and a great 3 dimensional playground for young children.
The other square block of the Alameda Park has a fenced-in bandstand, a few benches, grass and trees. It's well maintained. Some of the trees look like they're older than the Park. This section of the park is frequented mainly by homeless or homeless adjacent folks. At least, that's the way it was the day I was there.
Great kids party park. Very big, amazing play area, balloon guy, dog friendly, large restroom. You need to bring your own tables, the restroom was a good distance, street parking.
Cute little park with many ducks and squirrels. Really nice for a short walk in the nature.
It's a nice place to hang out. The Keck Botanical Park next door is a wonderful place to enjoy flowers and plants and Wildlife.
1400 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Park
Nature & Parks
Franceschi Park, located on Santa Barbara's Riviera, offers breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. Once the home of botanist Francesco Franceschi, the park boasts a diverse collection of exotic plants. The park is a tribute to Franceschi's contribution to introducing plants from around the world and acclimatizing them to California. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city, ocean, and Channel Islands while strolling through walkways and overlooks or relaxing in the picnic area.
Beautiful views ! A little hard to get up because of how steep it is....but it's awesome nonetheless!
Sarah S — Google review
Free parking. The restroom. has the lock broken. Great views. There is a bench. It's small with some areas to walk around.
Funny little park. Nice views. Not much to do. Very uncrowded and a nice place for a picnic.
It is the best view of the Pacific Ocean and all of Santa Barbara. You just have to drive up there and see it for yourself.
And take an electric bike ride up there like we do. Enjoy
The drive up was cool a lot of twists and turns but it it made it fun coming back down as I drive an electric car, woo hoo! The views were emaculate and the absolute best. Real good spot for a date . Bring a thick jacket and or pants and proper shoes as it gets windy , you'll be cold. There isn't much of a hike than more so a walk path if you will . Parking up top is super limited . So you want to make sure to get there early or closer to sunset just before they close. Get picture opportunities.
Easy to access by car - less than 10 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara. Parking lot + bathrooms available. Not the highest vista in SB, but stunning nonetheless. The history of the Franceschi House and surrounding foliage is quite interesting!
Kinda creepy and kinda cool. This is a great place to get away from it all right from the middle of Santa Barbara, but keep in mind that the drive isn't so fun going all the way up. Wonderful views of an old abandoned house left to the City of Santa Barbara by it's second owner. The first owner, Francesco Franceschi, built the house in 1893. It now sits as a monument to Franceschi but is also a moment to neglect by the city who hasn't done much to make the place safe for the handicapped or those who would do dumb things while in this beautiful location with hundreds of fantastic plant specimens from around the world.
This place has amazing views. It's a shame that they let the gardens and house fall in disrepair. Seems to have an interesting history. Italian immigrant/doctor moves to US, becames a well respected member of the community and has a love of tropical horticulture. If fixed up, could make into an interesting little museum, botanical gardens, or nice little venue for community concerts or weddings.
1510 Franceschi Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, USA•
Visitor center
The Outdoors Santa Barbara Visitor Center is a charming and welcoming spot that offers one of the most stunning views of the harbor and Santa Barbara. Visitors are encouraged to make a stop here not only for its picturesque vistas but also for its rich historical significance. It's an excellent place to immerse yourself in the local heritage while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
So many people including locals don’t know about this lovely spot for which you can get the best view of the harbor and mountains. It’s free and it’s on the fourth floor. When the elevator opens, there’s beautiful ocean themed tiles in the floor and walls with all kinds of information. There’s also a staff person who is there to answer Ny questions. The best part is to go out onto the balcony with comfy seating and look at the beauty of Santa Barbara.
Elena Y — Google review
Small but very friendly visitor center with one of the best views of the harbor and Santa Barbara. Worth stopping up here just for the view.
Santa Barbara wharf vibe
Nice historical place
It was a really good place
Nice
(Translated by Google) We were turned away from the parking lot by a resident with our RV in a very rude tone. RVs are undesirable in Santa Barbara. We should thin ourselves out...
(Original)
Wir sind dort von einem Resident mit unserem RV in einem sehr rüden Ton vom Parkplatz verwiesen worden. RV‘s seien in Santa Barbara ungewünscht. Wir sollten uns verdünnisieren…..
113 Harbor Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, USA•
affordable
Wine bar
Nature & Parks
Cocktail bar
Nestled on Stearns Wharf, the Deep Sea Tasting Room is a delightful haven for wine enthusiasts and ocean lovers alike. This cozy spot showcases Conway Family Wines and boasts breathtaking 360-degree views of the Santa Barbara Harbor, Pacific coastline, Channel Islands, and Riviera. Guests can savor their favorite wines while enjoying the chic interiors or relaxing on the outdoor deck that overlooks stunning sunsets. The tasting room offers a selection of seasonal wines to sample through curated flights or by the glass.
By far, the best wine tasting room if you are the type of person who loves being near the water. I love the location, this is out on the wharf. Cute spot. You have to walk upstairs to get on the second level floor so for anyone who has difficulty going up stairs I’m not sure if they have an elevator to access the building. Other than that, the location is beautiful. Everyone there is very friendly. The view is spectacular and the wines are tasty. Our favorite being the deep sea brand.
T H — Google review
The view and wine here are very good, but I'm giving this three stars due to the process and policies, which turned a beautiful, relaxing afternoon into an annoying chore.
It was another lucky 75° Santa Barbara "winter" day and this wine bar is located right on Stearns Wharf... On the second floor, with an amazing, unobstructed view of the mountains and ocean. I went up to the counter to purchase the five flight red tasting, the girl friendly and bubbly, gave me a small, measured pour, 1oz? Very small. and told me to come back when I was ready for the next one. I didn't think anything of it and I went outside, had a sip, started to enjoy the beauty of the day. quickly realized, I'd need to go back inside number of times in order to continue to get the next glass... And the next... And the next... Interrupting the vibe. So I went I'm and asked the girl for all the times at once and she said... no
I thought that was strange so I asked her if there was a law prohibiting her all of the ones at once and she said no. They just would run out of glasses. She pointed me to the area right next to her at the bar... which had eell over 200 glasses sitting there as there was nobody but two people in the bar, which had maybe 25 tables. I thought this was strange and I asked her. There's nobody here. You're not going to run out of the glasses. She said that if she did it for me she'd have to do it for everybody else here. I pointed out there were two other people here, but she just walked away.
Although it might seem like a fairly minor issue, $30 for 5 sips of wine is pretty steep. I would recommend to management that rather than tell their customers to be their own waiters, they buy a few more glasses. Maybe 1000 glasses will be enough to serve 3 people next time.
We visited Deep Sea Tasting Room on the Santa Barbara Wharf and it quickly became one of our favorite stops in town. The location is unbeatable — right over the water with a terrace that offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean, the coastline, and the mountains in the distance. It’s the kind of place where you can just sit back, enjoy the sea breeze, and let time slow down.
We ordered two glasses of wine and were impressed by both the quality and the way they were served — perfectly chilled, with attentive and friendly service. The wine list is well thought out, showcasing local selections that pair beautifully with the atmosphere.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink or planning to linger and soak in the views, Deep Sea is an excellent choice. It’s relaxed yet elegant, and the terrace alone is worth the visit. Highly recommended if you’re in Santa Barbara and want a memorable spot to enjoy a great glass of wine by the water.
Knowledgeable staff and a beautiful view! No better feeling than having a nice glass of Pinot while watching the sailboats pass by. I was staying in Santa Barbara for only 2 days but came here twice because I loved it so much. Each time the staff were very kind and told us all about their wines as we got a red flight and a white flight. Not a single miss on any of them either, every single one was delightful. I plan to come back soon for another!
When it comes to “Tasting Rooms” in Santa Barbara, the options are endless! Deep Sea is absolute BEST! The experience was amazing! Abby was, is what wine hospitality is all about! The view is breathtaking! Oh, one more thing…… From a WINE 🍷 LOVER….. Wine will exceed your expectations 🙏🍷😎
Tasting room on Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara. Went for a wine tasting in the evening and had a wonderful time. Staff was friendly and accommodating, and all the wines were delicious. Views from the wharf were lovely, especially during sundown/sunset. Indoor and outdoor seating available, and one restroom available. They do wines by the bottle and by the glass, and offered charcuterie boards.
The Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room on the Santa Barbara Pier offers an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The location is spectacular, perched right on the pier with panoramic views of the ocean and coastline. It's a perfect spot to relax and enjoy some excellent wines.The selection of wines is impressive, featuring a variety of local and regional options. Each tasting comes with detailed descriptions and the staff are extremely knowledgeable, providing insights into the nuances of each wine and the winemaking process. The ambiance is laid-back and inviting, with plenty of seating both indoors and on the outdoor deck.The views alone are worth the visit, but the quality of the wines and the friendly, informative service make it truly special. It's an ideal place to spend an afternoon or evening, soaking in the beauty of Santa Barbara while sipping on some fantastic wines.Highly recommended for anyone visiting the area or looking for a unique wine tasting experience!
Great view of the pier looking at the sea. $20 tasting for two whites, two reds and a rose. Unfortunately I couldn’t finish any of them as the wine was undrinkable. The worst table wine in Europe is better than this one.
My advice, come here for the atmosphere, view and friendliness but if you want to enjoy a good Californian wine go somewhere else.
Also, the pier has free parking for 90mins
217 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Create your ultimate travel itinerary
Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.
Pier Santa Barbara is a delightful destination that offers a blend of stunning ocean views and various recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy the convenience of driving onto the pier, with free parking for the first 90 minutes, making it easy to explore. While there may not be an extensive selection of shops, the friendly atmosphere and breathtaking scenery more than make up for it. Food enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse dining options available, perfect for grabbing a bite while soaking in the sights.
Very beautiful pier, i was shocked that they have parking in the pier itself. They have a great selection of many different restaurants and gift shops . You are able to fish and we got lucky and were able to see someone catch a shark . This was a creat experience. Very beautiful views you can see many boats on the ocean and the boat docks are visible from there too.
Lizeth T — Google review
Pier Santa Barbara / Stearns Wharf is highly recommended. It delivers what people want in a coastal pier: beautiful scenery, a mix of food + shops + ocean vibes, plus the chance to just wander. Not a perfect hidden gem (because it’s well known & popular), but among the nicer piers on the California coast for visitors and locals alike.
One of the only piers I know of you can drive on. The first hour is free then there is an hourly charge of $4. Depending when the parking can be easy to find or get a bit difficult. Plenty of shopping, restaurants, there is a winery, spots to fish, we parasailed in the afternoon. A must to check out if you have never been or want to enjoy the ocean breeze and views.
This is one of my favorite places to eat, to people watch, and to see the fishermen bring in their catch. It’s a stunning view, and I highly recommend spending some time nibbling your way through the various restaurants and beautiful shops.
The pier is so fun. Love going there for good food and a nice walk around. I love hearing the wood creak as the cars drive down the pier
Very nice pier, plenty of parking, clean, all the gift shops to get the family souvenirs. The candy spot is always on our list of stops. Only thing missing was a fresh fish spot selling small shrimp cocktails and oysters on a half shell and it would have got 5 stars from me.
Nice spot to visit. You can spend some couple of hours by the sea. Lively and interesting.
The restaurant at the pier was delicious I forgot what it was called I'll update this later. Parking can be hectic but its worth it. The sushi and ice cream spots are great there also.
144-152 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Beach pavillion
Public beach
1000 Steps Beach is a hidden gem along the Santa Barbara coastline, accessible via about 150 concrete steps from the parking area above. The beach offers rocky and sandy terrain, making it more suitable for exploration than sunbathing. During low tide, the sand is exposed for walking or jogging. As you descend the staircase, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean, cliffs, and sandy shores. The crashing waves and warm sand create a serene atmosphere once you reach the beach.
We discovered this Santa Barbara beach as a result of a recommendation from a hotel clerk. It wasn’t the easiest to reach, but it was totally worth it. Located at the end of Santa Cruz Blvd. off of Shoreline Drive, you can park for free on Shoreline Drive and just walk down to the stairs. Don’t let the name fool you though, there are only about 250 steps to get to the bottom, but wear a good soled shoes because it does get slippery on the steps the farther down you go. You should also check the daily tide before you head out because during high tide you can’t even get down there. We went at 11am which was low tide and you could easily bring stuff and enjoy a few hours as high tide was not expected at 4:23 that day.
The beach itself is a bit unique as the photos will show. Not a ton of shells, but loads of unique rocks! And so many lobster and crab shells so clearly it’s a good location for predator food! The sand was ultra soft and its even, making it extremely walkable which is what we did!
Yes it was a bit tiring going back up the stairs, but you can take your time and we thought it was worth it for the stunning views and unique opportunity to walk down the cliffs and check out a gorgeous beach with very few visitors! We will definitely be back and plan to stay longer next time!
SoCalTraveler — Google review
Perfect for a walk on the beach.
Tips:
Go at low tide.
Not a great place to camp out for the day. Too rocky and beach is very narrow.
Parking at the steps is nonexistent. Park off of main road.
This beach is absolutely beautiful. It’s a special spot to watch the sunset — the colors are just stunning. It’s never too crowded, which makes it feel peaceful and calm. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea otter playing in the waves. I think that’s what I saw — could’ve been an otari, but pretty sure it was a sea otter. Either way, it was magical. The whole place has a quiet charm that’s hard to beat.
What a beautiful beach! Excellent for Rock hunters! Make sure you pay attention to the tides because at high tide it comes right up to the bottom of the steps! Not a lot of parking. Dog friendly 🙂
We were here couple years back but unfortunately thus time we can go down to the beach area due to high tide. So, we headed down toward Mesa Lane Steps is the same but many surfers were on that spot. Overall, we highly recommend this place to visit. Lots of free parking on the street.
Same name as the one in Laguna. But not as same good as the one in Laguna.
It was not bad though If you are just tried of the familiar environment, and want get-away in not a far distance.
1000 Steps Beach in Santa Barbara is a secluded and picturesque spot perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Despite its name, the beach is accessed via a steep staircase with fewer than a thousand steps, but the descent adds to its charm and sense of adventure.
The beach itself is a serene stretch of sand, bordered by dramatic cliffs and the soothing sound of crashing waves. It’s ideal for relaxing, beachcombing, or catching a quiet sunset. Low tide reveals tide pools teeming with marine life, making it a favorite for nature lovers.
Keep in mind, amenities are minimal, and the steep climb back up requires some effort. However, the peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery make it well worth the trip for those who appreciate a more private coastal experience.
Great destination for a run! Off of a nondescript road with little signage, difficult to find without a map app but also then few people when you get there. If you run the ups, be prepared to run up a seaside rise for 1.5 miles before reaching the entrance.
A must visit if you are in the Santa Barbara area. This place is so beautiful and peaceful!
1429 Shoreline Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93109•
Beach
West Beach in Santa Barbara is a popular destination for beachgoers, offering a wide expanse of sandy shoreline and various activities. It is home to Stearns Wharf, where visitors can find shops and dining options. The beach is divided into two sections by the historic wharf, with West Beach being closer to the harbor and the Small Craft Quiet Water Area. This area is known as the Ambassador area, characterized by Spanish-style buildings and a vibrant oceanside atmosphere.
Great beach in Santa Barbara surrounded by mountains, palm trees and Pacific Ocean 🌊🌊🌊 nice place for a walk, stroll or just enjoying the ocean. Not crowded, but lots of people running, biking and walking their pets. There are also clean restrooms in the walking distance from the beach.
Volodymyr K — Google review
Beautiful day today. Waves were pretty meh, but this beach is gorgeous and in the heart of Santa Barbara where State street meets the pier. Check it out or go for a walk along the beach path lines with Palm trees.
This spot is a favorite for both visitors and locals, with tons of fun vibes. People love working out on the beach, which is long, spacious, and perfect for hanging out. There’s plenty of parking, and the whole area has that warm, laid-back California energy.
Nice beach and pier. Lots of people, but doesn't feel too crowded. There are a couple restaurants on the pier and a big parking lot as well.
We would come back if we were in the area.
Main beach of Sta Barbara connected to the main pier. The shoreline is long enough and stretches towards the boat pier. Crowds usually nearer the piers with wide spaces in between. Very flat and walkable promenade as well. A nice place for a jog or a pleasurable walk.
What a great little beach. We were at the beach for the day and we loved it. A close walk from the train station, and plenty of room. There is a nice walking path up and down the beach, as well as multiple recreational spots that include volley nets and children playgrounds. There are bathroom facilities nearby as well however they have no doors on the stalls. So many restaurant choices within walking distance. They have a pier that has a wonderful lookout to the ocean and fishing access. We will definitely go back again.
Beautiful and wide beach, fairly clean too
Such a beautiful, peaceful place to relax and watch the seals. We were there in June and believe it or not, the beach was empty!
Non-profit organization
Downtown Santa Barbara, located in and around Lower State Street, is a historic area known for its distinctive architecture, bustling atmosphere, great food, and fabulous shopping. It offers a little bit of everything along with proximity to the beach. Visitors can enjoy exquisite Mexican cuisine at Carlitos Cafe y Cantina while catching live music on Thursdays or head to The Good Lion for specialty cocktails and good tunes during the monthly Santa Barbara Jazz Collective event.
We loved walking around downtown Santa Barbara. Feels like Spain ! They even have a paseo !
The Spanish atmosphere is GREAT we also enjoyed the many shops and restaurants.
A definite must do visit on the West Coast.
Paul V — Google review
Loved the morning walk here! Great architecture and shops. Beautiful palm trees and parks. Can get anything you can think of. Very cute town.
Nice place for walking, checking different boutiques, dining, or do wine tasting. During college season the area is pretty young and happening mixed up with older local crowd. For more follow our instagram @gemislist
Downtown Santa Barbara is an absolute gem! The blend of stunning Spanish Colonial architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and picturesque ocean views makes it a perfect destination for a day trip or an extended stay. State Street is bustling with charming shops, fantastic restaurants, and cozy cafes, offering something for everyone. The local wineries and tasting rooms add a delightful touch to the experience. The area is also incredibly walkable, with beautiful parks and historic sites easily accessible. Whether you're exploring the museums, enjoying a beach day, or just strolling through the streets, downtown Santa Barbara offers an unforgettable experience. Highly recommend a visit!
Nice walk along State Street , full of restaurants, coffee spots, and ice cream places! Awesome area, totally a must-visit. Super good for families too!
Enjoyed walking through the farmers' market, which stretches for many blocks. Sampled fruits, which were fresh and delicious. The atmosphere was friendly and quietly bustling. The buildings along the street are low (no more than three stories) and predominantly whitewashed with red roofs, so fairly charming in the southern California sun.
The best rose matcha latte ever! Made as is; with oatmilk. So good! I inhaled it.
Love the water! Very peaceful beach 🏝️ town.
415 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Museum
Ganna Walska Lotusland, once the private estate of Madame Ganna Walska, is now a renowned public garden spanning 37 acres. This botanical wonderland features exotic plants, unique gardens, and enchanting details that can be explored on a self-guided tour. The estate boasts topiary gardens, succulent and cactus gardens, water gardens, orchards, and a recently renovated Japanese Garden.
Lotusland is truly incredible. 37 acres of meticulously kept gardens, from an expansive Japanese garden replete with waterfalls, a huge koi pond, and a pagoda, to the jaw-dropping cactus gardens which contain 50-ft tall saguaro cacti, Lotusland cannot disappoint. These gardens truly are some of the best in the world. It is impossible to see all the wonders in just one visit. I hope to go again soon!
Sullivan I — Google review
I mean, one of the top 10 gardens in the world. Yeah, I could see that. It's fantastic. Even if you only kinda like plants it's worth the stroll through the plants and gardens. Expertly tended, in fantastic shape and a treat.
You have to get tickets in advance. If they are sold out, call or keep watching the website as they do update. Only open a few days a week, so plan ahead. It's not cheap to visit, but it is worth it in my opinion. Although I do like plants.
Arrive on time as the tour window is 2 hours and if you dally you will use up every minute of that time.
We were very fortunate to have a tour of this wonderful garden, with the interesting history of Ganna Walska included. It is a beautiful garden, very different from New Zealand gardens because of the climate. Lots of cacti and succulents, but also formal garden sections. Unfortunately the Japanese garden was closed for renovation, and we were too early in the season to see the lotus flowers. Definitely would like to revisit!
Lotusland is a beloved local treasure. If you have an affinity for Flora and Fauna you would be remiss if you were in the Santa Barbara area and fail to book a reservation. The property is jaw dropping.
Incredibly beautiful botanical gardens, exquisite grounds and setting. Come in the morning and take your time, or afternoon and stay until closing if time allows. Bring a picnic! Wonderful, magical place. Ponds, cactus, tropical, you name it, you'll see it. What a history! A truly lovely place.
Is there a more beautiful garden anywhere? That's up for debate! Lotusland is a treasure. Madam Ganna Walska's vision, passion and determination helped create this horticultural masterpiece and the current gardeners, staff and hundreds of volunteers keep it all alive and thriving. Membership includes all kinds of wonderful perks.
The new expanded Japanese garden is worth a trip! From gigantic trees to baby ladybugs, butterfly gardens to koi ponds, Lotusland is a world unto itself.
Turned away at the gate because I didn't have a reservation to look at their flowers. I live in Italy. Visiting in L.A. and drove 1.5 hours by myself to see the gardens. No where did it say "reservations required". Google maps said "open". I told the gatekeeper & she said, "yeah, sorry". When I asked for an alternative, she suggested that I could go shopping. Wow. Manche le parole... Ciao, Lotusland. You sound a lot cooler than you are.
Extremely beautiful and historic gardens on the estate. Little pocket universes of plantings from spectacular cactus to prehistoric Jurassic ferns. Newly restored meditative Japanese garden, pools surrounded by gigantic clam half shells and gleaming opalescent abalone shells. A remarkable place to visit.
695 Ashley Rd, Montecito, CA 93108, USA•
Create your ultimate travel itinerary
Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.
4.4
(36)
5.0
(3)
Permanently Closed
Indoor playground
Children's library
Children's museum
Children's party service
Coworking space
Kidaru Playcenter is a family-friendly place with a great atmosphere and caring staff. They offer various classes for toddlers and even have a parents' night out on Friday nights, making it convenient for parents to enjoy some free time. The playcenter has been recently renovated and now features fun spots for imaginative play that can keep kids engaged for hours. Additionally, they provide essential items like diapers and socks at retail prices, as well as snacks and a well-stocked bathroom suitable for all kids.
I am glad I found this place. Great atmosphere, nice play and sensory area, caring and polite staff. They offer different classes for toddlers and parents night out on Friday nights, which nobody else does. I used it few times on Friday, so that I could go out or run errands, and found that it was much better and more affordable option than getting a babysitter. My son was engaged in different activities, played with other kids and closely supervised by staff at all times. Strongly recommend.
Perri Z — Google review
The new management has really cleaned the place up. Has a lot of fun little spots for amazing imaginative play and keeps my kiddos’ (5, 3 and 1 year old) attention for 2+ hours. I’ve forgotten diapers before and they have that and you basically just pay retail (for socks as well) which is nice. And enough snacks if I decide to make them a light lunch in between playing.
Bathroom is well stocked for all kids from potty trainers, to diaper changes, to adults.
I brought my son to Kidaru for the first time today, and had an amazing experience. The staff is friendly, the place has a playground and a sensory toy area. They also start offering music classes and story time. Overall very good experience, my son loved it.
My little brother goes to Kidaru alot and he loves it. He especially likes the puzzles, playstructure, trampoline, and toy kitchen. He had his second birthday party at Kidaru and it was a great venue. The staff were so friendly and helpful and they make the party very enjoyable.
The place has potential to be nice, but isn't for several reasons.
It is a small play area compared to most, but enough room for a little one to have fun and the parents not be run ragged following them around or watching from the "viewing bar".
But that is about it for the positives. There is ONE generic bathroom (one toilet/sink) for the whole place to use and no functional changing station in said bathroom. The paper towel roll on the floor and lack of soap (empty dollar store foaming soap container was there) was a particularly disturbing touch. Combine that picture with a general dirty/grunginess that is usually only present at most poorly maintained gas station restrooms and you can get the vibe for the care that is put into this place.
No climate control whatsoever seems to exist here either. They could at least prop the side door open so a breeze can flow through the place and move the hot/humid Florida like air around a bit. It is always a big downer to have sweat dripping off of you as you are sitting down drinking ice water because the establishment doesn't care about keeping you or your kids from having heat stroke.
Not a place we would likely return to unless there were no other options or improvements are made.
Brought my 10 month old son there and it was very fun! Keep in mind though that it is a communal play space so it gets busy and a little dirty. But overall it was nice
Kidaru is a clean, safe, creative environment for children to play with parent supervision. Yelena, the owner, is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Parent-Infant Coach. She is also the mother of three children. Yelena brings both her professional and personal experiences to Kidaru!
Fun place for the little kids. My son enjoyed himself and he didn't want to leave after an hour and a half of playing. Place was pretty clean from what I could tell as well.
La Cumbre Plaza, 3835, State St C-154, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA•
4.3
(221)
4.0
(2)
Park
Pershing Park is a city park located near the harbor that offers a pleasant urban oasis. It boasts well-maintained pathways, including eight tennis courts and two softball fields. The park has a rich historical background and features an amphitheater where visitors can enjoy live music while relaxing on the grass beneath shady trees. Street parking is available, although there are also some homeless individuals in the area. Additionally, Santa Barbara Foresters baseball games can be enjoyed here.
Pretty nice park the park itself is huge!
Neal A — Google review
Nice park. You can take your dog for a walk,watch a baseball game or just relax.
Historical. Amphitheater listen to the music as you sit on the lawn under a shady tree. Street parking and a few homeless. Santa Barbara Foresters baseball ⚾🧢🍻. Views of sunset or marine layer.
Incredible views and a nice walk to the top!
This is a very nice park near the beach. My visits here are for SBCC baseball games. The facilities are well groomed and clean. There is almost always a small contingent of homeless in the park during the day but I have never seen them bother anyone.
Update 5/2021:
Not what it used to be....hordes of tents, garbage and shoddy, parked vehicles populate this place in the evenings now...indicative of the lack of city policy and management for homeless. Probably okay during the day, but after hours there are probably far safer parks elsewhere.
I love this place for the tennis courts and proximity to hotels and other mainstays in Santa Barbara. There are lighted walking paths above the tennis courts.
Interesting place. Used by all kinds of different organizations for all kinds of different event. Wonderful location. Currently I go there to watch my nephews play flag football. Definitely not a family park to have a barbecue but hey, I'm sure you could.
This park is close to the beach area in Santa Barbara. Its located next to the Western Carriage Museum. Parking lot can be crowded during week days when Santa Barbara City college is in session. Park baseball fields and tennis courts used by school during week days 7 am to 5 pm. 3-4 Handicap parking spaces available. Park can be exceptionally warm when a hotter day in Santa Barbara, not much tree/shade coverage. Public restroom available. Smaller bleacher seating by ball fields. Western Carriage Museum shares parking lot with park.
100 Castillo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA•
Other best-of categories in Santa Barbara
Top searches in Santa Barbara
Popular road trips from Santa Barbara
What's the weather like in Santa Barbara?
It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Santa Barbara for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.
- Weather in Santa Barbara in January
- Weather in Santa Barbara in February
- Weather in Santa Barbara in March
- Weather in Santa Barbara in April
- Weather in Santa Barbara in May
- Weather in Santa Barbara in June
- Weather in Santa Barbara in July
- Weather in Santa Barbara in August
- Weather in Santa Barbara in September
- Weather in Santa Barbara in October
- Weather in Santa Barbara in November
- Weather in Santa Barbara in December
All road trips from Santa Barbara
- Santa Barbara to Los Angeles drive
- Santa Barbara to Las Vegas drive
- Santa Barbara to San Francisco drive
- Santa Barbara to San Diego drive
- Santa Barbara to Greater Palm Springs drive
- Santa Barbara to Monterey drive
- Santa Barbara to Seattle drive
- Santa Barbara to Anaheim drive
- Santa Barbara to Vancouver drive
- Santa Barbara to Sedona drive
- Santa Barbara to Yosemite National Park drive
- Santa Barbara to Phoenix drive
- Santa Barbara to Carlsbad drive
- Santa Barbara to San Simeon drive
- Santa Barbara to Santa Monica drive
- Santa Barbara to Tucson drive
- Santa Barbara to Grand Canyon National Park drive
- Santa Barbara to San Antonio drive
- Santa Barbara to the Death Valley National Park drive
- Santa Barbara to Paso Robles drive
- Santa Barbara to Page drive
- Santa Barbara to Temecula drive
- Santa Barbara to Denver drive
- Santa Barbara to Santa Clarita drive
- Santa Barbara to Zion National Park drive
- Santa Barbara to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park drive
- Santa Barbara to Portland drive
- Santa Barbara to Branson drive
- Santa Barbara to Santa Cruz drive
- Santa Barbara to Santa Fe drive
Explore nearby places
- Santa Barbara
- Montecito
- Carpinteria
- Ventura
- Santa Ynez
- Ojai
- Solvang
- Los Olivos
- Oxnard
- Camarillo
- Lompoc
- Thousand Oaks
- Santa Maria
- the Simi Valley
- Calabasas
- Malibu
- Santa Clarita
- Arroyo Grande
- Oceano
- Pismo Beach
- Santa Monica
- Bakersfield
- Marina del Rey
- Beverly Hills
- Avila Beach
- West Hollywood
- San Luis Obispo
- Manhattan Beach
- Hermosa Beach
- Santa Margarita
- Redondo Beach
All related maps of Santa Barbara
- Map of Santa Barbara
- Map of Montecito
- Map of Carpinteria
- Map of Ventura
- Map of Santa Ynez
- Map of Ojai
- Map of Solvang
- Map of Los Olivos
- Map of Oxnard
- Map of Camarillo
- Map of Lompoc
- Map of Thousand Oaks
- Map of Santa Maria
- Map of the Simi Valley
- Map of Calabasas
- Map of Malibu
- Map of Santa Clarita
- Map of Arroyo Grande
- Map of Oceano
- Map of Pismo Beach
- Map of Santa Monica
- Map of Bakersfield
- Map of Marina del Rey
- Map of Beverly Hills
- Map of Avila Beach
- Map of West Hollywood
- Map of San Luis Obispo
- Map of Manhattan Beach
- Map of Hermosa Beach
- Map of Santa Margarita
- Map of Redondo Beach
Santa Barbara throughout the year
Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Santa Barbara?
Get inspired for your trip to Santa Barbara with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:
Best fun attractions in nearby cities
- Fun things to do in Los Angeles: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in San Francisco: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in San Diego: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Greater Palm Springs: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Santa Monica: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Paso Robles: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Anaheim: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Long Beach: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Monterey: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Beverly Hills: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Ventura: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Solvang: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Malibu: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Oxnard: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Santa Clarita: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Camarillo: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in the Simi Valley: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in La Jolla: fun attractions and activities
- Fun things to do in Palm Springs: fun attractions and activities
Best attractions in nearby cities
- Top things to do and attractions in Los Angeles
- Top things to do and attractions in San Francisco
- Top things to do and attractions in San Diego
- Top things to do and attractions in Greater Palm Springs
- Top things to do and attractions in Santa Monica
- Top things to do and attractions in Paso Robles
- Top things to do and attractions in Anaheim
- Top things to do and attractions in Long Beach
- Top things to do and attractions in Monterey
- Top things to do and attractions in Beverly Hills
- Top things to do and attractions in Yosemite National Park
- Top things to do and attractions in San Luis Obispo
- Top things to do and attractions in Ventura
- Top things to do and attractions in Solvang
- Top things to do and attractions in Ojai
- Top things to do and attractions in Malibu
- Top things to do and attractions in Lompoc
- Top things to do and attractions in Oxnard
- Top things to do and attractions in Los Olivos
- Top things to do and attractions in Santa Clarita
- Top things to do and attractions in Camarillo
- Top things to do and attractions in Santa Ynez
- Top things to do and attractions in Santa Maria
- Top things to do and attractions in Thousand Oaks
- Top things to do and attractions in the Simi Valley
- Top things to do and attractions in Carpinteria
- Top things to do and attractions in San Simeon
- Top things to do and attractions in Montecito
- Top things to do and attractions in La Jolla
- Top things to do and attractions in Palm Springs
Best restaurants in nearby cities
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Los Angeles
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in San Francisco
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in San Diego
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Greater Palm Springs
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Santa Monica
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Paso Robles
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Anaheim
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Long Beach
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Monterey
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Beverly Hills
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Yosemite National Park
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in San Luis Obispo
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Ventura
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Solvang
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Ojai
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Malibu
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Lompoc
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Oxnard
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Los Olivos
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Santa Clarita
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Camarillo
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Santa Ynez
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Santa Maria
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Thousand Oaks
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in the Simi Valley
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Carpinteria
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Montecito
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in La Jolla
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Palm Springs
Planning a trip to Santa Barbara?
Save all the best places to visit with WanderlogDownload the travel planning app everyone's been raving about
- Itinerary + map in one view
- Live collaboration
- Auto-import hotels and reservations
- Optimize your route
- Offline access on mobile
- Optimize your route
- See time and distance between all your places
