Situated close to the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara is often called the “American Riviera.” With its stunning scenery and pleasant climate, it’s no wonder that this California city is such a popular tourist destination. If you’re looking for things to do in Santa Barbara, you won’t be disappointed. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the city’s famous beaches or explore its rich history and culture, Santa Barbara has something for everyone.

Santa Barbara Zoo

The zoo is an excellent attraction for both adults and children. It provides a great opportunity to learn about different animals and their habitats, as well as to see them up close. Additionally, the zoo offers a variety of other entertainment options, such as shows and exhibits, making it a perfect place to spend a day with family or friends.

The animal encounters at the Santa Barbara Zoo are a great way to get up close and personal with some of the animals. You can learn about their habitat, diet, and behavior while getting a chance to pet them and feed them. These encounters are a great way to connect with nature and learn more about the animals that call the Santa Barbara Zoo home.

Santa Barbara Harbor

The Santa Barbara Harbor is the perfect place to take a stroll, enjoy the fresh ocean air, and watch the boats come in and out. On any given day, you’ll see a variety of boats of all sizes – from small dinghies to massive yachts.

Stearns Wharf is the oldest pier in Santa Barbara and one of the only piers that remain from the early days of California’s coastline. It was built in 1872 and has been a popular destination for locals and tourists ever since. The wharf is home to several businesses, including a seafood restaurant, an ice cream shop, and a souvenir store. Visitors can also take a scenic walk or ride on the Santa Barbara Waterfront Shuttle. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or just someone who enjoys being by the water, the Santa Barbara Harbor is sure to delight.

Refugio State Beach

Refugio State Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located in Goleta, California. The beach is well known for its surfing, picnicking, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, biking, and camping in the nearby Refugio State Park.

If you’re planning on visiting Refugio State Beach, you should consider reserving a campsite in advance. By doing so, you’ll ensure that you have a place to stay during your visit and won’t have to worry about finding a last-minute spot. Additionally, camping at Refugio State Beach is a great way to experience all that the area has to offer. You can make a reservation for a campsite through the state’s Department of Parks and Recreation.

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum first opened its doors to the public in 2000 and has since become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits that are sure to capture your kids’ attention, and adults will appreciate the museum’s rich collection of maritime history.

With interactive exhibits and a variety of educational programs, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring everything this California city has to offer.

Shoreline Park

Shoreline Park is the perfect place to take in the stunning view of Santa Barbara Harbor. With its beautiful setting and ample parking, the park is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Channel Islands. Shoreline Park is also a great place to picnic, go for a walk, or just relax and enjoy the view. Leadbetter Beach is just a few minutes east, and West of Shoreline Park is Thousand Steps Beach.

Leadbetter Beach

Leadbetter Beach is known for its clear blue waters and beautiful white sand beaches. The beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Leadbetter Beach is located in Santa Barbara and stretches for about two miles. Visitors can find a number of restaurants and bars in the area.

If you find yourself getting hungry while you’re enjoying a day at the beach, never fear! Shoreline Cafe is there to save the day. Located right on the beach, this cafe is the perfect spot to head to when you need a bite to eat.

El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park

The El Presidio de Santa Barbara is one of the city’s oldest buildings, and has been designated a National Historic Landmark. The presidio was built in 1782 by Spanish soldiers, and served as a military base for more than 100 years. The site has a rich history dating back to the early days of Spanish colonialism in California. Visitors can learn about the Presidio’s role in the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the evolution of California’s statehood.

Ghost Walking tour in El Presidio is an educational and exciting way to learn about the history of this beautiful area. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the Presidio’s past, present, and future. This is a great way to spend an afternoon if you’re looking for something different to do in San Francisco.

Funk Zone

The Funk Zone is a vibrant and creative neighborhood next to the Amtrak station. It is home to many art galleries, studios, and eclectic shops. The area has a rich history dating back to the early days of Santa Barbara’s development. Today, the Funk Zone is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering something for everyone.

It is rapidly growing as one of the best tourist attractions in Santa Barbara, California that offers visitors a unique and delightful experience.

Santa Ynez Wine Trail

This extensive wine trail is located near the Santa Ynez Mountains and is a great place to enjoy some fantastic wines. The trail offers a variety of different wines to taste, and you can also purchase bottles of your favorite wine to take home with you. There are also several wineries located along the trail, so you can learn about the wine-making process and meet the people who make these amazing wines.

The Santa Barbara County region has a long tradition of winemaking dating back to the 18th century. The first vineyards were planted here by Spanish missionaries, and today the area is home to over 200 wineries. The area is home to a wide variety of micro-climates, each of which is ideal for the cultivation of a different type of grape. As a result, the region is able to produce an array of excellent wines.

If you find yourself in Santa Barbara, there are plenty of things to keep you busy. The city is home to many attractions. In addition, there are numerous restaurants and cafes to enjoy, as well as a variety of shops to explore. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to find something that interests you in Santa Barbara.