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 launch pad for making a splash. Surf some of the most renowned breaks in the world, or stand-up paddleboard in the protected waters of Butterfly Bay 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. Catch the art fair every Sunday.
A few steps inland, SB becomes a treasure trove of green parks, public 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.
A continuous canyon park reaching up San Roque Canyon to the historic trails of the Santa Ynez Range.There is a playground, creekside and hiking trails through San Roque Canyon and reservable picnic and barbecue 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…
Bask in Santa Barbara’s botanical beauty on a visit to Lotusland, a stunning 37-acre Montecito estate once owned by the late Madame Ganna Walska. A well-known opera singer and socialite, she purchased the property in 1941 and spent the next…
Visitors find in each of our parks a distinctive spirit that may stimulate or soothe, but is sure to satisfy. Cool redwood groves, wide open lawns for recreation, the picturesque Pacific, and two of California's most sought-after campgrounds. The…
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.
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…
Located just half an hour west of Santa Barbara, Refugio State Beach offers a unique landscape and calm oasis for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The palm tree-lined cove caters to peaceful picnics, coastal fishing and unforgettable kayaking. Its…
It’s known as a sport for the soul, and when you paddle out in Santa Barbara, you’ll quickly see why. The surfing in Santa Barbara allows for some of the best in California, with something for every skill level. Photo Credit: Gabriela Herman
If you’re planning on checking this iconic coastal travel experience off of your bucket list, make sure you don’t miss these Santa Barbara stops. Photo Credit: Mark Weber
Locals and visitors alike flock to Mesa Lane for long walks on the beach and breathtaking views of the Pacific. Photo Credit: Instagram @thomasgrahamvisuals
Park yourself for the afternoon at Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens, located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. Photo Credit: Instagram Fan @mannyraya
Don’t let the number of steps scare you! This path to Mesa Lane will lead you straight to a beachfront paradise. Photo Credit: Instagram Fan @kylec_photo
A vacation that’s actually fun for the whole family is a rare thing indeed. Santa Barbara has loads of attractions and outdoor opportunities that will satisfy kids big and small. Photo Credit: Gabriela Herman
