Nestled in Santa Barbara’s East Mesa Neighborhood, Shoreline Park is one of the city’s most popular outdoor recreation areas. The 15-acre oceanside park is known for its incredible views of the Santa Barbara Harbor, Channel Islands and Santa Ynez Mountains. The park features reservable picnic areas, walking paths, beach access and plenty of space for play.
Things to Do at Shoreline Park
Shoreline Park’s large grassy areas make it a haven for playing Frisbee, sunbathing and picnicking, while the paved trails are great for walking, jogging and biking.
At the center of the park, you’ll find wooden stairs that lead directly to the beach—head right and you’ll land at Thousand Steps Beach; head left to get to Leadbetter Beach, which can also be accessed via the paved trails. During whale-watching season (November–April), be sure to check out the bronze whale statue near the bottom of the stairs and peer through the attached binoculars for views of Pacific gray whales migrating south for the winter.
For visitors traveling with children, the park features a large playground area with slides, swings, sandpits and more. Shoreline Park is also dog-friendly. Dogs must be on-leash in the park, but can go off-leash on the beach at the west side of the stairs.
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Shoreline Park Picnic Area
Shoreline Park Picnic Area is available to rent for groups of up to 50 people. The event space is adjacent to both restrooms and the playground, and it has two small parking lots within walking distance. It’s important to note that amplified and live music is prohibited at the park, and alcohol is allowed by permit only. Click here for hours and availability.
Amenities
Along with the picnic area, the park offers a wide array of amenities including portable barbecue grills and camp stoves, benches and two restrooms.
About the California Coastal Trail
Shoreline Park is a part of the California Coastal Trail, an integrated network of trails that, when completed, will connect the entire state. This trail system will one day allow people to bike, hike and walk California’s entire 1,230-mile coastline, taking you from sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs to dense forests and thriving bays. Currently, Santa Barbara features 6 miles of paved, multi-use paths that offer ample enjoyment for locals and visitors alike. Learn more about the California Coastal Trail.
Directions & Parking
The park has two parking areas, located at either end of the grassy area. To get to Shoreline Park, hop on Cabrillo Boulevard. When the road turns into Shoreline Drive, you’ll know you’re close. If coming from the west, take a left into the park; if coming from the east, take a right into the park.
