When it comes to beaches, Santa Barbara is best known for its broad, sandy shores. Whether you’re hoping to catch the perfect wave or simply take in a stunning sunset, there are endless options for you to choose from. Every beach has its own unique vibe, so you’re sure to find one that’s just right for you.

One of the first places they check out is East Beach. It is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its convenient location east of State Street (the main access route for shopping and dining in Santa Barbara) and Stearns Wharf which is the oldest working pier in California. Whether you’re looking to soak up some sun, take a dip in the ocean, or just relax on the sand, East Beach is the perfect spot to do it.

At the eastern end, you’ll see a grass park with food tables as well as volleyball courts. The perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Rent a bicycle at Wheel Fun Rentals to travel around the beachfront and port. Whether you’re walking along the water’s edge, or taking a leisurely stroll, there’s no better way to spend a sunny day than enjoying all that the harbor has to offer.

If you’re searching for a place to take your dog where they can freely run around and have a good time, Arroyo Burro Beach is the perfect spot. It’s a flat, sandy beach with plenty of room for playing fetch or other games. And since it’s designated as a dog-friendly beach, you won’t have to worry about getting in trouble for having your furry friend with you.

Butterfly Beach in Montecito is a popular spot for watching the sunset due to its west-facing orientation. Leadbetter Beach is renowned for its excellent paddle-boarding, boogie boarding and surfing conditions.

Wine and Dine

As one of the world’s top travel destinations, Santa Barbara offers an incredible selection of food and drink options, rivaling Northern California’s famous Sonoma and Napa regions when it comes to wine manufacturing. The area surrounding Santa Barbara is home to some of the best wineries in the world, making it the perfect place to enjoy a glass or two of local wine.

Tucked away in these valleys by the Santa Ynez Mountains, the vineyards and their tasting rooms offer a breathing space from the hustle and bustle of daily life. They provide a place to relax and enjoy the fruits of the labor of local vintners. The Santa Ynez Valley is a wonderful place to sample some of California’s best wines while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

If you enjoy spending time downtown, then you’ll definitely love Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail. With dozens of tasting rooms, this trail brings wine from nearby wine country right to the city. The Urban Wine Trail is a must-see for anyone in the area, local or otherwise. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon or evening, taste some delicious wines, and support the many amazing wineries in the region.

With plenty of activities available, you’ll need to make sure you have enough energy to last throughout the day. Luckily, there are lots of dining options scattered throughout the city, from cozy stylish Funk Zone hot spots to State Street cafés to harbor-side classics and casual taquerias. There are also plenty high-end wine bars and cocktail lounges to choose from. No matter what your budget or taste, you’re sure to find something to your liking.

Embrace Nature

The natural beauty of Santa Barbara is an infinite source of inspiration for outdoor activities. With its stunning natural scenery and year-round mild weather, Santa Barbara is the perfect place to get outside and enjoy nature. From biking to hiking in the Santa Ynez Mountains, to exploring the city’s parks and beaches, there’s always something new to explore in this beautiful California location.

If you’re looking for an adventurous getaway, head to Channel Islands National Park, where you can discover caves by kayak, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and hike through pristine wilderness. This archipelago is home to a variety of wildlife, so you’re sure to see some interesting creatures during your visit.

Whale watching is also a must-try activity when you are in Santa Barbara. This is because the coastal waters surrounding Santa Barbara provide a passage for gray, blue, humpback as well as killer whales. You will have the chance to see these amazing creatures up close and personal by going on a whale watching tour.

Delight in the majesty of these giant creatures of the sea with a whale-watching excursion offered by Companies such as Sunset Kidd and Condor Express. According to these companies, November to April is the most ideal time of year to go whale watching.

Santa Barbara is also at the doorstep of the Los Padres National Forest, which extends from San Luis Obispo to northern Los Angeles.

Popular with mountain bikers and hikers is the nearby Romero Canyon Trailhead since it provides access to many different trails in the area. Los Padres also provides opportunities for fishing, swimming and camping, which makes it an ideal destination for outdoor lovers.

Be a History Buff

The Chumash Indians were the first inhabitants of the Santa Barbara region. These master boat builders and basket makers left behind many artifacts, including cave paintings, which can still be seen today. If you’re interested in learning more about the indigenous peoples and history of the area, be sure to check out the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History.

When to Go

Santa Barbara is an ideal destination year-round. If you’re looking for classic beach weather, the best months to visit are July and August when the sun and waters are warmest. Santa Barbara’s Mediterranean climate also means that winters are relatively mild, making it a great escape from colder regions of the country. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer.

Where to Stay

Located in Santa Barbara, the El Encanto is a Belmond Hotel that offers luxurious accommodations. The hotel features high-end amenities and stunning views, making it the perfect place to relax and escape from everyday life.

The Montecito Inn and Simpson House Inn are boutique properties that offer travelers a unique and memorable experience. Both hotels are centrally located in Santa Barbara, California and offer easy access to all of the city’s best attractions making them a great choice for travelers looking for a hotel in the downtown area.

The Castillo Inn is a great choice for those looking for an upscale motel that is close to the beach. The inn is located half a block from the Santa Barbara Harbor and West Beach, making it a convenient option for those who want to be close to the action. The hotel Milo is another great choice for those looking for a reasonably-priced option near Stearns Wharf.

If you’re looking for a full resort experience, Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort is an excellent option located across from East Beach. The resort offers a variety of amenities and activities to keep guests entertained, as well as stunning views of the beach. You can also enjoy quick access to all the best that Santa Barbara has to offer, making it the perfect place to stay for a relaxing vacation.

Santa Barbara is most known for its perched ocean-side setting, Mediterranean climate, and Spanish Colonial architecture as well as being a renowned tourist destination with high-end hotels, resorts, and restaurants. It’s also famous for being home to the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB), one of the top public universities in the nation. If you’re considering a trip to this beautiful city by the sea be sure to keep all the information in this article in mind!