Santa Barbara is a one-of-a-kind vacation destination, especially with the kiddos in tow. From interactive museums to endless beach days, there are countless ways to keep everyone, at every age, entertained. For families looking for the adventure of a lifetime, we’ve compiled a three-day itinerary filled with activities along Santa Barbara’s waterfront.
But before we get started, you’ll need to choose where to stay. Santa Barbara offers a variety of wallet-friendly stays as well as hotels perfectly suited for families.
Day 1: harbor walks & whale watching
Begin your day at the Santa Barbara Harbor with breakfast the California way, at On the Alley. Order a jumbo breakfast burrito filled with everything you need to kick-start your morning. (Tip: Try adding avocado and tater tots!) Little ones will love the French toast dips or the waffle “fingers,” which they can dunk into a side of syrup.
After you’ve filled your belly with breakfast, take a quick walk around the corner, where you’ll find the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Explore the Santa Barbara Channel’s rich maritime history, dating back 10,000 years. Highlights include the Point Conception Lighthouse Fresnel Lens, which stood watch for about 160 years.
For a deeper exploration of marine life, booking a whale watching trip with Condor Express is an absolute must. With year-round excursions, you’re pretty much guaranteed to see something thrilling on each and every journey. From humpbacks and gray whales to blue whales and dolphins, it’s possible to see aquatic animals during all four seasons.
When you return to shore, take in the Santa Barbara scenery as you walk along the waterfront towards State Street. You’ll come across Chad’s, a Santa Barbara staple since 1957 and a perfect place to stop in for lunch. Fill up on all-day breakfast or a classic burger — the choices are endless.
Day 2: kid-friendly kayaking adventures
On your second morning in Santa Barbara, take to the water with Paddle Sports Center, Cal Coast Adventures or Santa Barbara Adventure Company for a day of excitement either within the Santa Barbara Harbor or along the gorgeous coastline.
For more experienced kayakers, The Channel Islands are an easily accessible, yet secluded, hub for local flora and fauna. The most rewarding way to explore this National Park is a day of kayaking around the islands. Look to Channel Islands Expeditions or Santa Barbara Adventure Company for a guided kayaking trip, where you can hop on board a charter boat straight from the Santa Barbara Harbor to explore the incredible sea caves. You’ll leave with new knowledge, great memories and an experience your family will never forget.
Day 3: beaches & downtown shopping
Life is all about balance. After your day of active adventure at sea, take it easy on your last day with a morning lounging by your hotel’s pool or sipping coffee on your sunshine-filled patio. With year-round temperatures averaging 70 and sunny, be sure to soak up as much sun as possible (with sunscreen, of course!) before checking out.
Once hunger strikes, head to Cheese Shop Santa Barbara or The Eddy to stock up on picnic provisions. From local jams to cheese and meat from all around the world, there are endless combinations for a delicious lunchtime snack. Pack your picnic and head to East Beach, where you can snack at picnic tables, jump on the playground equipment and put your feet in the water. If you’re up for something more active, start up a volleyball game. East Beach is home to dozens of some of the West Coast’s best sand volleyball courts. Play with the family, or drop into another group’s game. There are always people ready to hop in at East Beach!
After your active afternoon, spend your final few hours in Santa Barbara walking along State Street, the iconic hub of the downtown area. From small boutiques to big-name brands, there are endless shops to check out in Santa Barbara. For your last taste of Santa Barbara, be sure to stop by the legendary McConnell’s Ice Cream shop, the perfect end-of-trip treat for the whole family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best beach for families in Santa Barbara?
East Beach, Goleta Beach Park and Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry’s Beach) are three of Santa Barbara’s most family-friendly options, offering wide sandy shores, easy amenities and plenty of space for kids to play.
Are there other kid-friendly restaurants near the waterfront?
Yes — you’ll find several kid-friendly spots along the waterfront, including Shoreline Café, Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach and Santa Barbara Fish Market for casual, oceanfront meals families love. Find more kid-friendly restaurants in Santa Barbara.
