East Beach in Santa Barbara provides the ideal atmosphere for fun in the sun. Its spacious, sandy coastline is bordered by a grassy park that’s lined with large palm trees which makes it a popular area for outdoor activities both on and off the beach. The amenities at East Beach include restaurants, volleyball courts, playground areas, lifeguard stations, and a winding, safe bike path.

Things to Do at East Beach

If you enjoy a rousing game of beach volleyball, East Beach is the beach for you. With numerous courts available, the beach hosts several beach volleyball tournaments throughout the year. East Beach is also in close proximity to many popular Santa Barbara beaches and attractions including West Beach, Santa Barbara Zoo and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center on Stearns Wharf. You can get to these places by car, foot or bike. If you choose to travel on two wheels, we recommend renting a bike at nearby Wheel Fun Rentals or with Santa Barbara BCycle whose pedal assist bike docking stations are located up and down the waterfront. 

Beachfront Hotels on East Beach

Many of Santa Barbara’s most popular beachfront hotels are located off East Beach. The hotels include Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, Santa Barbara Inn, The Inn at East Beach, and Cabrillo Inn at the Beach, and the original Motel 6. These accommodations offer amenities ranging from outdoor and indoor pools, fitness centers and transportation to local attractions and restaurants.

How to Get to East Beach

East Beach sits along Cabrillo Blvd. If you’re coming from the north, take Highway 101 to Hot Springs Road. And, if you’re south of the beach, take Highway 101 to Garden Street. From there, turn onto Cabrillo Blvd. where you’ll begin to see the beautiful blue waters of East Beach.