While Santa Barbara is well known for its expansive, pristine beaches, it has just as much space to offer inland as well. Santa Barbara’s beaches and parks are a testament to the city’s affinity for fresh air and outdoor fun.
Starting at the Pacific, Santa Barbara is home to miles of public beaches, many of which serve as a launchpad for making a splash. Surf some of the most renowned breaks in the world, or stand-up paddleboard in the protected waters of Butterfly Beach in Montecito. Cabrillo Boulevard connects East and West Beach, which are hot spots for pick-up volleyball games, picnics, and an afternoon date with a good book. Every Sunday, make sure to catch the Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show that spans the popular coastline.
A few steps inland, Santa Barbara becomes a treasure trove of green parks, gardens, and hidden sanctuaries — the city is home to over 50 of them. Chase Palm Park makes the sand-to-grass transition easy with its location across from East Beach. It also offers free family-friendly concerts throughout the summer. Stow Grove Park in Goleta features redwoods and eucalyptus trees, volleyball courts, a baseball diamond and horseshoe pits, making it the perfect stop for the entire family. Other favorites include Alameda Park, which is home to an elaborate 8,000-square foot playground, and Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, where you’ll see turtles cruising through the pond, and beautifully manicured gardens — a wedding favorite.
One look and it’s easy to see why Santa Barbara makes being outside a priority and staying out a must.
Gaviota State Park takes its name from the Spanish word for seagull, given to the area by soldiers of the Portola Expedition who supposedly killed a seagull while camping here in 1769. Marked by a tall Southern Pacific railroad trestle that…
Located just ten minutes from downtown Santa Barbara, Arroyo Burro Beach is often referred to by locals as Hendry’s Beach. This beach is known for its winding coastline and light surf. Arroyo Burro Beach is also surrounded by tall bluffs that…
A small, out of the way, neighborhood park with spectacular views of the city and Santa Ynez mountains that can be enjoyed from the picnic tables or the children's playground area. Reservable sites.
El Capitán’s peaceful setting, sandy shoreline and close proximity to Santa Barbara make it a popular spot for camping, picnicking, wildlife viewing and other outdoor activities. Stands of sycamore, oak and eucalyptus trees create lots of shady…
Located one hour west of Santa Barbara, Jalama Beach Park and Campground is an secluded park where visitors can unplug and relax in nature. With more than 100 campsites, seven equipped cabins, a general store and spectacular ocean views, Jalama…
Explore California’s unique natural landscape at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, a 78-acre living museum designed entirely with California-native plants. Five miles of easy walking trails crisscross the wild-crafted gardens, so you can…
This 14,600 square feet of skateboard and in-line fun is located in Chase Palm Park along the waterfront at Garden Street and Cabrillo Blvd. This state-of-the-art cement facility features a half-pipe, rails, fun boxes and other skating elements.…
