In addition to the variety of beachfront coastline, Santa Barbara’s parks and outdoor playgrounds are scattered throughout the city, offering an experience all their own.
At Santa Barbara parks, visitors can discover hidden treasures, unique vantage points, or even a new urban retreat. One of the best ways to spend an afternoon in these lush surroundings is to keep active and do as the locals do. Let the kids play at Kids World, before crossing the street and feeding the ducks at Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens, the “crown jewel” of Santa Barbara city parks, and located centrally inDowntown Santa Barbara. Or, bring your binoculars to go bird-watching at Rancho La Patera & Stow House. The gardens are located in the heart of the Los Carneros Natural & Historical Preserve and are a popular respite for bird-watching and outdoor enjoyment.
Parks and festivals in Santa Barbara go hand in hand. Lovers of lemon gather at Girsh Park inGoleta for a weekend of family fun and lemon-flavored treats at the California Lemon Festival. Beer aficionados flock to Elings Park every October for the Santa Barbara Beer Festival, while Alameda Park, one of the city’s oldest parks, is home to Earth Dayand Summer Solstice. During summer nights, Chase Palm Park is a community gathering center, and visiting musicians play at the Concerts in the Park series every Thursday Night.
For a more relaxing getaway, take a morning stroll to delight in oceanfront views at Shoreline Park. Or, head for the hills and let the panoramic views of Santa Barbara take your breath away upon the American Riviera® at Franchesci Park. End your day with a dose of culture and pack a picnic to be enjoyed at The A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden, located adjacent to the Old Mission Santa Barbara.
This lush and friendly neighborhood park features a children's playground and reservable group picnic facilities. Other highlights include towering trees and a short, pleasant walk to a spectacular ocean view.
Located in the chic and laid-back village of Montecito, Butterfly Beach is a favorite among Santa Barbara locals. The beach’s pristine shoreline is ideal for swimming, surfing and sunbathing, and its unique east-west orientation makes for…
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…
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.…
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…
Located just 6 miles south of Santa Barbara is Summerland Beach at Lookout Park. Known for its laidback vibes, Summerland Beach is the perfect oceanfront venue for rest and relaxation. Its proximity to the park also makes it an ideal location for…
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…
