Things to do in Santa Barbara

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Santa Barbara

Types of activities

Where to stay

Santa Barbara travel guide

United States of America which includes farmland

Santa Barbara County Courthouse which includes a luxury hotel or resort and heritage architecture

El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park which includes a church or cathedral

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Tours & day trips

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Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

Private & custom tours

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Self Guided Walking Tour of Solvang: Discover the Danish Charm

Free cancellation available

Water activities

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Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbour (2 Hours)

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What to do in Santa Barbara

Popular places to visit

Santa Barbara Zoo

Why not meet the animals who call Santa Barbara Zoo home during your holiday in Santa Barbara? Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

I love the stillness of this marina, especially sunrise and sunset

Santa Barbara Harbor

Explore the waterfront in Santa Barbara with a trip to Santa Barbara Harbor. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Santa Barbara Bowl

Enjoy a show at Santa Barbara Bowl, a popular theatre in Santa Barbara. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Santa Barbara County Courthouse

See the best views of Santa Barbara and enjoy a stunning variety of architectural styles at the city’s historic courthouse.

Upper State Street

During your visit to Santa Barbara, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Upper State Street. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its cosy cafes.

Butterfly Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Butterfly Beach during your travels in Santa Barbara? Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

The longest deep water pier between San Francisco and Los Angeles in Santa Barbara.

Stearns Wharf

Explore the waterfront of Stearns Wharf and enjoy other activities such as cycling in Santa Barbara. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Mission Santa Barbara

Learn about the local history of Santa Barbara when you take a trip to Mission Santa Barbara. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Santa Barbara City College

Explore the campus of Santa Barbara City College during your stay in Santa Barbara. Discover the top-notch restaurants in this walkable area or seek out the cycling trails.

Areas of Santa Barbara

Montecito

5/5(4 area reviews)

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Montecito. A stop by Miramar Beach or Butterfly Beach might round out your trip.

Santa Barbara Aerial Panorama. Scenic shot of Pier and beach

Santa Barbara Beach

4.5/5(67 area reviews)

Santa Barbara Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Stearns Wharf and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation.

urban landscape of the city of Santa Barbara, California ; Shutterstock ID 398939668

Downtown Santa Barbara

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Presidio Santa Barbara might round out your trip.

West Beach

If you're spending some time in West Beach, Santa Barbara Harbor and West Beach are top sights worth seeing.

A marshland next to a public beach. Situated about 100 miles north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, is being promoted as the "American Riviera" due to her Mediterranean-like climate.

East Beach

4.5/5(18 area reviews)

East Beach is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like East Beach and Santa Barbara Zoo.

Walk on the beach celebrating my parents vow renewal

The Mesa

While visiting The Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Leadbetter Beach and Arroyo Burro Beach.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Carpinteria

Santa Ynez

Panoramic view of Montecito, Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands from Old Romero Canyon Trail in Montecito, California near Santa Barbara on a clear, sunny spring day with prickly pear cactus

Summerland

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Barbara worth visiting?

Santa Barbara has a unique blend of culture, attractions and local charm. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or traditional food, there are many things you'll find here.

How do I spend a day in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara Zoo and Stearns Wharf are two great places to begin your holiday adventures. Be sure to explore the shopping and dining options in Santa Barbara while you're there too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Santa Barbara?

The top tourist attraction in Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara Zoo, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing itinerary.

Is three days enough to stay in Santa Barbara?

Three days in Santa Barbara is more than enough to visit the city's key attractions. Many guests book for two days on average. Santa Barbara Zoo, Stearns Wharf and Butterfly Beach are top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Ventura.

Is Santa Barbara a walkable city?

Some top sights in Santa Barbara, such as Santa Barbara Zoo and Stearns Wharf, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 2 kilometres from central Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara Beach and West Beach is 2 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in Santa Barbara with kids?

Whether you're travelling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, a fun-filled itinerary makes a big difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Santa Barbara with kids.

What to do in Santa Barbara for adults?

UC SB Events Centre and Santa Barbara County Courthouse are just two of the things to do in Santa Barbara. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.

Are there free things to do in Santa Barbara?

From checking out parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Santa Barbara. If you need inspiration, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Stearns Wharf is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their travel adventures.