Fun Things to Do in Santa Barbara: Local Activities & Tours
Santa Barbara is a gem between the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains. It offers a wide range of activities that show off California’s coastal beauty. The city is a mix of outdoor fun, cultural spots, and things to do for everyone.
The city’s attractions include historic sites and natural wonders. The Santa Barbara Adventure Company has been sharing the area’s unique experiences with visitors for over 20 years. You can see the city on the Santa Barbara Trolley Tour, which lasts 90 minutes or let you get on and off all day.
Outdoor lovers will find plenty to do in Santa Barbara. The weather is perfect all year, with temperatures between 50-80º. You can kayak at Santa Barbara Harbor or surf at the beach, enjoying the coastal life.
The city is also alive with cultural events. There’s the Fiesta, Santa Barbara Film Festival, and Pacific Pride Festival. Don’t miss the Santa Barbara Farmers Market for a taste of local produce and community spirit.
Santa Barbara is a place where you can relax or seek adventure. It’s a spot where nature, culture, and fun activities come together. From downtown to the coast, every moment is special and unforgettable.
Explore Santa Barbara’s Beautiful Beaches
Santa Barbara is known as the ‘American Riviera’ for its stunning coastline. It draws visitors from all over. The city’s beaches are a must-see for anyone visiting.
These beaches offer something for everyone. Whether you love sports or just want to relax, there’s a beach for you.
Visit East Beach
East Beach is a top choice for beach lovers. It’s 1.6 miles long and perfect for volleyball and other activities. You can enjoy:
- Professional volleyball courts
- Palm-lined pathways
- Modern facilities including restrooms and showers
- Picnic areas for family gatherings
Discover West Beach
West Beach is great for families looking for a calm beach. Its gentle waters and soft sand are perfect for sandcastles and swimming.
Enjoy Butterfly Beach
Butterfly Beach is in the upscale Montecito area. It’s famous for its stunning sunset views. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and those in love.
Each beach in Santa Barbara has its own story. They invite visitors to make their own special memories.
Tour the Historic Santa Barbara Mission
The Old Mission in Santa Barbara is a stunning landmark. It shows the rich culture of California. It’s a key spot for anyone making a Santa Barbara travel guide or looking for vacation ideas.
The Mission was founded on December 4, 1786. It was the tenth of 21 Franciscan missions in California. It covers 15 acres, giving visitors a chance to learn about local history and see beautiful architecture.
Understand the Mission’s History
The Mission has a compelling story. It was set up to convert the Chumash Indians. It played a big role in California’s colonial era. Key moments include:
- Completed in 1820 after an earthquake
- Given back to the Catholic Church by Abraham Lincoln in 1865
- Restored after the 1925 earthquake
Explore the Surrounding Gardens
The Mission’s gardens are perfect for those looking for Santa Barbara vacation ideas. They offer a calm place to relax. The gardens are filled with native plants and have beautiful views.
Here’s some info for visitors:
- Daily hours: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
- Last tour ticket sold at 4:00 pm
- Ticket prices:
- Adults: $17.00
- Youth (5-17): $12.00
- Seniors: $15.00
- Children (4 and under): Free
Whether you love history or just want a quiet afternoon, the Santa Barbara Mission is unforgettable. It connects you with California’s lively past.
Stroll Through State Street’s Vibrant Shops
Santa Barbara’s State Street is alive with energy, perfect for a weekend getaway. It runs from downtown to the waterfront, filled with shops, restaurants, and culture.
The street is closed to cars, making it great for walking. You can get around easily with electric shuttles and pedicabs.
Unique Local Boutiques
State Street has many shops to explore. La Arcada Court is special, with:
- Over 10 local retail shops
- Artisan galleries
- Distinctive local designer collections
Popular Restaurants and Cafes
Downtown Santa Barbara has over 50 restaurants. Food lovers can find many places to eat, showing off the city’s food scene.
| Restaurant | Specialty | Year Established |
|---|---|---|
| Joe’s Cafe | Extensive Breakfast Menu | 1928 |
| McConnell’s Ice Cream | Artisan Ice Cream | 1953 |
| Bibi Ji | Community Favorite | 2018 |
| The Cruisery | Craft Cocktails | Recent Establishment |
State Street is great for shopping and eating. It’s a memorable trip through Santa Barbara’s lively area. There’s plenty of parking, with over 3,000 spots downtown.
Visit the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Explore a stunning sanctuary of California’s native plants in Santa Barbara. The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a unique attraction. It takes you on a journey through the state’s diverse landscapes.
This garden covers 78 acres in Mission Canyon. It’s a top spot for nature lovers and casual visitors. People usually spend 1-2 hours here, seeing 11 different ecological sections.
Explore Native California Plants
The garden focuses on California’s plant heritage. You can see amazing plants from different habitats:
- Coastal bluff gardens
- Desert cactus displays
- Redwood grove
- Meadow sections with native wildflowers
Scenic Hiking Trails
For those who love adventure, the garden has great trails. They offer stunning views of the Santa Ynez Mountains. The Tipton Trail is a 1.3-mile hike with a 200-foot elevation gain.
| Visitor Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Admission Prices |
– Adults: $20 – Seniors (60+): $16 – Students: $14 – Youth (3-12): $12 – Children (under 3): Free |
| Hours | Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
| Annual Visitors | Over 100,000 |
The garden has easy parking and offers nature journals in English and Spanish. It’s dedicated to conservation. This makes your visit unforgettable.
Experience Santa Barbara Wine Country
Santa Barbara’s wine scene is a journey through California’s most exciting vineyards. It’s a top spot for wine lovers, with experiences for both new and seasoned wine enthusiasts.
Santa Barbara County is a dream for wine lovers. It has seven unique wine areas and over 120 wineries. Visitors can find many wine vacation ideas, beyond just tasting rooms.
Wine Tasting in the Funk Zone
The Funk Zone offers an urban wine adventure. It’s a lively area with about two dozen tasting rooms. Here, you can taste great wines, see street art, and feel the coastal vibe.
- Explore around 24 unique tasting rooms
- Discover urban wineries like Riverbench
- Enjoy wine and spirit pairings at local establishments
Vineyard Tours and Events
The Santa Ynez Valley is just 45 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara. It offers a real wine country experience. You can visit famous wineries like Stolpman Vineyards and Foxen Vineyard for unique tastings.
- Visit multiple sub-AVAs: Sta. Rita Hills, Ballard Canyon
- Experience small-production wineries like Story of Soil
- Enjoy specialized wine flights and tours
Looking for an urban wine trail or a vineyard view? Santa Barbara’s wine country is unforgettable. It’s a journey through California’s most exciting wine areas.
Discover the Santa Barbara Zoo
The Santa Barbara Zoo is a gem between mountains and ocean. It’s a 30-acre wildlife sanctuary. Here, you can explore diverse animal habitats and learn through fun experiences.
Family-Friendly Attractions
The zoo is home to over 146 fascinating species. It’s a favorite spot for families and nature lovers. You’ll find exciting features like:
- Kallman Family Play Area for children
- Climb for Condors rock wall (26 feet high)
- Weekend goat brushing experiences
- Immersive wildlife exhibits
Educational Programs and Activities
The Santa Barbara Zoo is more than just animal viewing. It offers educational programs. You can join:
- Walking tours ($35 for non-members)
- Wildlife experiences with Q&A sessions
- Conservation exhibits at Volentine Gallery
- Free animal shows like “Dino Doc”
Here’s what you need to know: the zoo is open from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. Tickets cost $25 for adults and $15 for kids. You can rent strollers and enjoy meals at the Ridley-Tree House Restaurant.
Take a Coastal Scenic Drive on Highway 1
Start an unforgettable journey on California’s most famous road. Highway 1 is a must-see for anyone visiting Santa Barbara. It stretches over 650 miles, giving you stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and access to beautiful landscapes.
Day trips along Highway 1 near Santa Barbara are truly mesmerizing. This route covers about 25 miles and takes 2-3 hours to explore. You’ll see some of the most beautiful views in the area.
Notable Scenic Overlooks
Your coastal adventure has many amazing stops:
- Gaviota State Park – Offers panoramic ocean vistas
- Arroyo Burro Beach Overlook – Perfect for tide pool exploration
- Rincon Point – World-renowned surf watching location
- Santa Barbara County coastline viewpoints
Charming Coastal Towns to Explore
Along your drive, you’ll find charming coastal towns:
- Carpinteria – Home to a unique seal sanctuary
- Summerland – Quaint beach town with antique shops
- Montecito – Featuring luxurious estates and pristine beaches
- Goleta – Known for local breweries and fresh cuisine
Pro tip for your Santa Barbara travel guide: Visit between December and April to see gray whales migrating. It’s a magical experience.
Enjoy Outdoor Adventures at Channel Islands National Park
Channel Islands National Park is a hidden gem off Santa Barbara’s coast. It’s perfect for those who love adventure and nature. Visitors can explore a beautiful wilderness area just a short boat ride away.
The park has five unique islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara. Each island has its own special ecosystem. This makes it a top spot for outdoor fun and nature exploration.
Kayaking and Snorkeling Experiences
Water lovers will adore the park’s marine world. Kayaking is a big hit, best from August to October. Key spots for kayaking include:
- Landing Cove on Anacapa Island
- Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island
- Diverse marine habitats with over 2,000 unique marine species
Hiking and Wildlife Watching
The islands boast amazing hiking trails. These trails offer stunning views and a chance to see unique wildlife. Some top hikes are:
- Cavern Point hike with scenic views
- Point Bennett trek on San Miguel Island (16-mile round trip)
- Opportunities to spot rare island foxes and diverse bird species
Wildlife fans will love the park’s over 145 land and marine bird species. It’s a great place for nature watching and photography.
Attend Local Festivals and Events
Santa Barbara is a city full of life, thanks to its many local events. These events turn the city into a cultural playground. They attract both tourists and locals, showing off the area’s rich diversity and community spirit.
The Old Spanish Days Fiesta is a highlight of Santa Barbara tourism. It’s a five-day celebration that fills the city with culture and excitement. This event showcases the region’s history through unique events.
Fiesta Celebration Highlights
- Spirit of Fiesta Auditions: Young performers showcase their talents
- La Primavera: Annual spring fundraiser on May 17, 2025
- Fiesta Fashion Sale at Carriage and Western Art Museum
- El Mercado De La Guerra: Evening market from July 30 to August 2, 2025
Fiesta Event Schedule
| Date | Event | Time |
|---|---|---|
| July 30, 2025 | La Fiesta Pequeña | 8 PM – 10 PM |
| July 31, 2025 | La Misa del Presidente | 10 AM |
| August 1, 2025 | Historical Parade | 12 PM |
But there’s more to Santa Barbara than just Fiesta. The city hosts many festivals that show off local culture. From the Whale Rock Music and Arts Festival to the Santa Barbara Sea Glass and Ocean Arts Festival, there’s something for everyone. These events entertain and connect visitors with the community’s spirit.
Relax at Local Spas and Wellness Centers
Santa Barbara is a top spot for wellness, making your trip a chance to unwind. The city’s spas offer luxury and peace, perfect for those looking to relax. The Ritz-Carlton Spa at Bacara is a highlight, with 42,000 square feet of calm—the biggest Ritz-Carlton spa in the U.S.
Looking for unique wellness experiences? Santa Barbara has them. The Sense Spa at Rosewood Miramar Beach has cool features like a sauna and ice fountain. The Four Seasons Resort’s spa has 11 rooms, giving guests many ways to relax during their stay.
Spas in Santa Barbara use the area’s natural beauty in their treatments. Salt Santa Barbara has a Himalayan salt cave, a unique healing space. Le Reve, the first green spa in the area, offers eco-friendly wellness, showing Santa Barbara’s dedication to health and the environment.
Whether you want a quick massage or a full wellness package, Santa Barbara has it all. From beachfront rooms to garden spas, the city offers a journey to inner peace.
FAQ
What is the best time of year to visit Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara has great weather all year. The best time to visit is from May to October. Summer is perfect for the beach, and September and October are warm with fewer people.
The city’s mild climate is great for outdoor fun all year.
How do I get around Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara has many ways to get around. The city has a good public transit system with MTD buses. You can also rent bikes or walk downtown.
For trips to wineries or coastal drives, renting a car is best.
What are the must-visit attractions for first-time visitors?
First-timers should see the Santa Barbara Mission and stroll State Street. The Santa Barbara Zoo and Botanic Garden are also must-sees.
Be sure to visit the beaches and explore the Urban Wine Trail in the Funk Zone. A scenic drive along Highway 1 is a must.
Is Santa Barbara an expensive destination?
Santa Barbara can be pricey, more so during peak seasons. Accommodation and dining can be high, but it’s worth it.
For a budget-friendly trip, visit off-peak, stay in nearby towns, and enjoy free spots like beaches and walking tours.
What outdoor activities are available in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara has lots to do outside. You can kayak at Channel Islands National Park or hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains.
Wine tasting, surfing, and coastal trail exploration are also popular. The city’s mix of ocean and mountains offers many adventures.
How far is Santa Barbara from Los Angeles?
Santa Barbara is about 95 miles northwest of Los Angeles. The drive takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
There are also trains and shuttles that make the trip easy.
What local foods should I try in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara is famous for fresh seafood, farm-to-table food, and California-style Mexican dishes. Try spot prawns, uni, tri-tip, fish tacos, and Santa Ynez Valley wines.
The Funk Zone and State Street have many places to enjoy these local flavors.
