Planning a family trip and unsure where to begin? Start with Santa Barbara. Our coastal city is abundant with a variety of outdoor activities, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to narrowing down your vacation itinerary. Dive into this list of family-friendly outdoor activities in Santa Barbara, perfect for outdoorsy types and those that just enjoy fresh air and the region’s Mediterranean-like climate.
Activities at Sea
Imagine this: Despite your best efforts, your pint-sized alarm clocks are still set to the crack of dawn even though you’re on vacation time. Channel that break-of-dawn energy into kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, when the ocean is typically calmest and there’s hardly a stir in the Santa Barbara Harbor. Here, you might get an up-close view of sea life native to Santa Barbara. Before you head out to sea, grab a bite from nearby On The Alley and coffee from Dart Coffee.
Take to the seas aboard a sailboat (or any vessel of your choosing, really), because the serene waters just off the Santa Barbara coast provide an optimal setting for families to soak in the coastal breeze, with expert outfitters ready to enhance the experience. Santa Barbara Sailing Center, SunSwept Sailing, Condor Express and Celebration Cruises offer a variety of options, from beginner sailing classes to luxurious private charters and epic whale watching expeditions. For little ones, the Lil’ Toot water taxi welcomes folks of all ages, and offers a quick trip to-and-from Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf.
For the families with kids over the age of five years old: the adrenaline rush of soaring 1,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean is something they’ll be talking about for years to come. Santa Barbara Parasail will pick your group up at Stearns Wharf for a one-hour excursion, complete with unbeatable views of The American Riviera®.
Picturesque beaches and gentle swells make The American Riviera® a prime spot for surfers of all skill levels. Families can choose from a range of local surf schools like Santa Barbara Surf School and Surf Happens Premier Surf School, which offer lessons and gear for beginners and seasoned surfers alike. Whether learning to stand on a board for the first time or riding a perfect wave, surfing in Santa Barbara offers a thrilling and bonding surfing experience for families of all skill levels.
ACTIVITIES ON LAND
Santa Barbara boasts some of the most popular and stunning hiking trails in the region, with options for all ages. Inspiration Point is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, serving up panoramic views of the city and ocean from its summit. For those interested in a short-but-sweet trek (with oh-so-amazing views), Lizard’s Mouth is the hike for you. Families looking for a longer, more gentle hike can head to Douglas Family Preserve, which features easy trails for younger hikers and offers spectacular coastal vistas. Discover other top-rated hikes in Santa Barbara.
Savor leisurely picnics set against Santa Barbara’s picture-perfect backdrops, ideal for connecting with one another during your visit. Shoreline Park, with its expansive ocean views and grassy areas, is just the spot for families looking to enjoy a meal that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. For those seeking a more tranquil atmosphere, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden offers designated picnic areas surrounded by native California plants and wildflowers. Families can also venture to Alameda Park, known for its large, shady trees and an adventurous playground, making it a favorite among children. In the spring and summer, the rose garden at the foot of Old Mission Santa Barbara is blooming with new buds and makes for a dreamy spot to spend the afternoon picnicking.
Santa Barbara Trapeze Co. stands out in this coastal city as a thrilling family activity—and is sure to be talked about for months after your return home. This unique venue provides trapeze classes for most ages (between four and 104 years old) and skill levels, making it a unique spot for families to share an exciting and memorable experience. The expert instructors ensure a safe environment where everyone can learn the basics of flying trapeze.
Take some time to pedal through Santa Barbara’s vibrant landscapes, offering a dynamic way to connect with the area as a family. Along the Cabrillo Bike Path, families can enjoy relaxed rides alongside ocean vistas and beach access while not being too far from popular restaurants and shopping in the Funk Zone. For those seeking a bit more excitement, Elings Park ups the ante with challenging mountain biking trails with rewarding views from the summits. Explore more popular bike trails in Santa Barbara or let the experts at Cal Coast Adventures guide your ride. Skater’s Point, along the waterfront, is a scenic skate park that features a half-pipe, rails, fun boxes and more.
A vacation to Santa Barbara wouldn’t be complete without at least one beach day at one of these can’t-miss beaches. East Beach, known for its wide sands and volleyball courts, is great for families looking to enjoy a sporty day by the sea. Butterfly Beach caters to those seeking a quieter retreat to watch breathtaking sunsets and play in the gentle waves. For an exploratory day, Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry’s Beach) provides tide pools teeming with marine life and also doubles as a dog beach. Take a midday break by popping over to Boathouse, a sit-down eatery perfectly perched near the beach entrance that serves everything from American-style cuisine to seafood. Venture up the coast to Goleta Beach Park to check out the fishing at Goleta Pier, in addition to the long stretch of beach conveniently paired with a bounty of picnic tables.
For more itinerary inspiration for your next family vacation to The American Riviera®, heed this guide.