Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP 10 BEACHES AROUND SANTA BARBARA
Although Santa Barbara's beaches are beauty-pageant prize winners, don't expect sun-
sets over the ocean because most of this coast faces south.
beach is a long, sandy stretch sprawling east of Stearns Wharf, with volleyball nets for
pick-up games, a children's play area and a snack bar. On Sunday afternoons, artists set
up booths along the sidewalk, near the bike path.
sunglasses abound at this narrow but chic swimming beach in front of the historic Bilt-
more hotel. Don't be surprised if you spot a celeb. The beach faces west, so you can catch
a sunset here.
you'll find calm waters for kayaking, sailing and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). It's
most popular for sunbathing with tourists staying nearby. For lap swimming, head in-
doors to
Los BaƱos del Mar
.
this is a fantastic spot for swimming or learning to surf or windsurf. A grassy picnic area
atop the cliffs makes it just that much more family friendly.
rise-10pm) Descend the cliffs on a historic staircase (don't worry, there aren't actually
1000 steps) for some windy beachcombing and tide-pooling (best at low tide), but no
swimming. Neighboring
Shoreline Park
has a grassy area with picnic tables and a chil-
dren's playground.
Arroyo Burro Beach County Park
Near the junction of Cliff Dr and Las Positas Rd, this
gem has a picnic area and the family-style Boathouse restaurant. The beach is flat, wide,
away from tourists and great for kids, who can go tide-pooling. It's also a popular local
surf spot. Look for an off-leash dog area at Douglas Family Preserve, on the cliffs above
the beach.
8am-sunset) In the western suburbs near the University of California Santa Barbara
(UCSB) campus, this beach is a locals' scene. There's a 1500ft-long fishing pier, a bike
path and wide, sandy stretches for sunbathing after taking a dip or surfing easy waves.
From Hwy 101, take Hwy 217 westbound.
Carpinteria State Beach
About 12 miles east of Santa Barbara off Hwy 101, this mile-long
beach has beautifully calm waters that are great for swimming, wading and tide-pooling,
especially for younger kids.