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.
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Park yourself for the afternoon at Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens, located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. Photo Credit: Instagram Fan @mannyraya
