BEACHES
Santa Barbara is known for its beautiful beaches. In fact, we’d say no trip to Santa Barbara is complete without a trip to the beach! Check out one of these gorgeous beaches and experience a classic Santa Barbara activity.
Leadbetter Beach
Leadbetter Beach is beautifully sandy and one we always recommend for Santa Barbara beachgoers. It’s the favorite beach of many locals, so if you’re looking for an authentic SB beach experience, Leadbetter is the place to be. Here, you can sunbathe, fly a kite, build a sandcastle, or even learn to surf, among other classic beach activities.
Arroyo Burro Beach
Have your canine companion with you? Stop by Arroyo Burro Beach (often called Hendry’s Beach by the locals) and let your dog run free! Your dogs can explore the sand and play in the waves off-leash alongside you. If you have a water-loving dog, take them to this beach so they can experience the ocean.
West Beach
West Beach is within walking distance of Stearns Wharf, so you can get the best of both worlds here. Relax on the beach before walking along the wharf, where you can explore shops, experience dining, and take in the views. This is also one of the best spots in Santa Barbara for watching a sunset, and we recommend experiencing at least one Santa Barbara sunset during your visit!
Butterfly Beach
Are you an early riser? Visit Butterfly Beach! This is one of our favorite spots to catch the sunrise, and its views stay beautiful all day long. Get a pre-dawn start to your day with the sunrise while most of the city sleeps, and then enjoy the rest of the day relaxing shoreside.
East Beach
East Beach has plenty to do for all active beachgoers, since, let’s face it–not everyone’s perfect beach day involves relaxation. You can play a game of beach volleyball here, enjoy a picnic lunch, visit the arts pavilion, and even dine at a nearby restaurant. And if you want to switch up your beach views, East Beach has a bike path to Butterfly Beach!
