23 Must-Try Things to Do in Santa Barbara: Top Attractions & Activities

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Channel Islands National Park in Santa Barbara! This stunning destination is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. As one of the least visited national parks in the country, you'll experience pristine natural beauty and breathtaking views of the coast and surrounding islands. Be sure to bring hiking boots and binoculars, as you may spot rare wildlife like the island fox or the elusive blue whale.

Stearns Wharf is a Santa Barbara landmark that you can't afford to miss! This historic wharf offers an unbeatable combination of spectacular ocean views, fresh ocean breezes, and plenty of activities. Stroll along the pier, cast a line and go fishing, or enjoy delicious seafood at one of the many restaurants.

At the Santa Barbara Zoo, you can meet some of the cutest and most exotic animals from around the world. Located in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The zoo offers a diverse selection of animals, including snow leopards, elephants and penguins. For an unforgettable experience, don't miss the feeding of the giraffes.

With its rugged coastline, pristine beaches and abundant wildlife, Leo Carrillo State Park in Santa Barbara is a must-see for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts. The park features a scenic bay for swimming, surfing or relaxing in the sun, as well as a tide pool teeming with marine life. There are also excellent hiking trails here that lead to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Looking for a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean and a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of Santa Barbara? Then Shoreline Park is the place for you. With its many green spaces, walking paths, picnic areas and a playground for the little ones, it's an ideal place for a family outing.

If you're interested in history and architecture, a visit to Old Mission Santa Barbara 1786 is an absolute must in Santa Barbara. With its striking pink facade and stunningly manicured gardens, it's a prime example of Spanish colonial architecture. The interior is equally impressive, with intricate wood carvings, religious art, and beautiful stained glass windows that will transport you to another time. Don't forget to take a walk through the Mission's cemetery, where you'll find the graves of some of California's most famous figures. If you have a little more time, visit the neighboring Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History to learn more about the region.

If you're looking for a beautiful beach with plenty of activities, then Arroyo Burro Beach County Park should be at the top of your list. This stunning beach offers a variety of recreational activities such as surfing, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. In addition to the pristine white sand and crystal clear waters, the park's green space offers perfect picnic areas to spend the day with family and friends. At the adjacent Douglas Family Preserve, you can watch a variety of birds in addition to hikers and mountain bikers. Don't miss this beautiful beach park during your visit to Santa Barbara!

If you're looking for a unique experience in Santa Barbara, Ostrich Country USA is the place to be! Here you can get up close and personal with these fascinating, flightless birds. Feed them from your hand and marvel at their impressive size and speed. And don't miss the opportunity to ride one of these giant birds!

If you're looking for breathtaking natural beauty, be sure to visit Cachuma Lake Recreation Area on your trip to Santa Barbara. Nestled in the Santa Ynez Mountains, this park offers unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape as well as a plethora of recreational activities. You can picnic by the lake, hike the nearby trails, or even fish for rainbow trout.

If you're looking for a scenic, alluring stretch of coastline in Santa Barbara, Rincon Beach County Park is for you. Located between Carpinteria Beach and Emma Wood State Beach, this stunning beach is popular with surfers for its impressive waves. For non-surfers who want to take a quiet stroll along the coast, Rincon Beach is equally beautiful. The long, undisturbed stretches of white sand are mesmerizing and make for a great beach day. Don't forget to snap a few photos of the sea with the Channel Islands in the background, as they make the perfect backdrop.

A visit to the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's rich natural history. With exhibits ranging from dioramas of native wildlife to beautifully preserved fossils of ancient sea creatures, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural world around us.

Immerse yourself in a world of whimsy and wonder by visiting Lotusland in Santa Barbara. This 37-acre property is home to more than 3,000 plant species from around the world, including rare cycads and aloes. Take a stroll through the Japanese garden, admire the vibrant colors of the begonia garden, and marvel at the amazing sculptures scattered throughout the grounds.

The famous "Pier Santa Barbara" is an absolute must-see when visiting Santa Barbara. The iconic pier offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the Santa Barbara Channel Islands and is popular with tourists and locals alike. With its numerous restaurants, cafes and stores, the pier offers something for everyone. And for those who want to fish, there is a designated fishing area at the pier and equipment can be rented on site. Fun Facts: The pier has been featured in several movies and television shows, including "Forrest Gump." Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of the Santa Barbara Pier! Just a short walk away is the famous Santa Barbara waterfront, another stunning place to explore.

Santa Barbara Harbor is an absolute must-see for anyone traveling to this beautiful coastal city. The harbor is a bustling hub of activity, with fishing boats, yachts, and sailboats all lining the docks. Take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Mountains. You might even catch a glimpse of the resident sea lions basking in the sun. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the harbor from the water. Don't forget to grab some fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants nearby. Plus, the famous Stearns Wharf is just a short walk away and offers even more beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

If you're looking for a unique and historic dining experience in Santa Barbara, Cold Spring Tavern is the place to go. This quaint and cozy tavern was established in 1865 and has been serving delicious food and drinks ever since. Not only will you enjoy tasty dishes, but you'll also get a glimpse of the area's rich history as you dine in a building that once served as a stagecoach stop. Be sure to try the famous tri-tip sandwich and enjoy an ice-cold beer or glass of wine from the extensive selection.

If you're looking for some retail therapy on your Santa Barbara vacation, be sure to visit Paseo Nuevo. This open-air shopping center offers a wide selection of stores, from upscale boutiques to popular retail chains. Take a break from shopping and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants or cafes on site. Don't miss the opportunity to snap a photo with the iconic Santa Barbara Courthouse nearby.

The Mission Basilica of San Buenaventura 1782 is a must-see for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in Santa Barbara's rich religious and cultural history. This beautiful late 18th century mission church boasts stunning architecture and impressive artwork that will take your breath away.

Although a courthouse is not typically considered a tourist attraction, the Superior Court of California County of Santa Barbara is definitely worth a visit. The beautiful, historic building is an architectural masterpiece with intricate details and impressive columns. There are also breathtaking views of the city and ocean from the courthouse.

Arroyo Hondo Vista Point is an absolute must for nature lovers in Santa Barbara. As you drive up the winding roads, you will be overwhelmed by the breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains. The serene atmosphere makes it a perfect place to relax and unwind. Be sure to bring your camera because the view is breathtaking! This viewpoint is only about a 15-minute drive from Refugio State Beach, another beautiful place to enjoy the California coast. Don't miss out on this hidden gem!

Located on the stunning Santa Barbara coast, Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With breathtaking views of the ocean and lush greenery, visitors can hike through a variety of scenic trails and spot an array of wildlife, including rabbits, birds, and the occasional seal or sea lion.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Mission Rose Garden in Santa Barbara. This tranquil oasis offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located on the grounds of Old Mission Santa Barbara, the garden is home to over 1,500 rose bushes with fragrant blooms in shades of pink, yellow, red and white. Enjoy the fresh scent of roses as you stroll along the winding paths and admire the breathtaking views of the city and nearby mountains.

The Santa Barbara Botanical Garden is a must-see for anyone traveling to this picturesque city. This beautiful garden spans 78 acres of land and is home to a variety of native plants, stunning wildflowers, and walking trails that offer breathtaking ocean and mountain views. You can explore several gardens, including the Canyon Section, the Manzanita Section, and the Garden Of The Senses.

Looking for a quiet escape into nature? Then Nojoqui Falls Park in Santa Barbara is the place for you! On the approximately 1.5 km walk to the falls, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sound of a babbling brook. Once you reach the waterfall, you'll be overwhelmed by its beauty as the water cascades over a height of 80 feet.