Fun Things To Do In Santa Barbara
Ride the Waves of the Pacific Ocean
Paddle Boarding / Kayaking
With the Santa Ynez Mountains to the north, the Channel Islands to the South, the California coast on either side of you, and Pacific Ocean all around you, Santa Barbara boast spectacular views while paddling the coastline. While paddle boarding or kayaking you'll also see an array of sea life underneath you, may be greeted by playful seal, or have a special encounter with a dolphin or whale coming up for a breath of fresh air.
Surfing
Whether you want to try surfing for the first time or join the professionals at Rincon Beach, Santa Barbara is known for many surf spots for all skill levels. You may even be joined by a school of dolphins surfing the waves!
Whale Watching
Whether by land or by sea, Santa Barbara is one of the best places on the West Coast to whale watch. A variety of majestic migrating whales can be spotted from the pacific shore or on a number of day cruises departing the Santa Barbara Harbor daily. This is an experience that will make you feel larger than life!
Explore Santa Barbara
Lotusland
Disappear to a whimsical land in Montecito that will leave you full of awe and wonder! Lotus Land has 37 acres of diverse plants, cacti, succulents and features unique gardens from all over the world including an authentic Japanese tea garden.
Santa Barbara
Botanical Gardens
Experience first hand California’s unique beauty while at the Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens. As you explore 5 miles of spring poppy fields, redwood forests, California native plants and cacti take in the scenic views of the Pacific Ocean in the distance.
Seven Falls
One of the reasons why Santa Barbara is the most ideal place to vacation is for the dramatic contrast between the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the pacific ocean. Explore the mountains in Santa Barbara on a hike to Seven Falls where you will discover endless trails sheltered by the shade of eucalyptus trees, boulders to climb, a natural rock water slide with natural pools to swim in and picturesque views of the Channel Islands and the Coastlands.
Learn The History of Santa Barbara
Museum of Natural History
An educational experience that will spark an interest at any age. Star gaze at the Gladwin planetarium, discover the skeleton of a blue whale or explore the outdoors where you can build forts, make mud pies, learn about conservation and hold live critters in their natural habitat.
Santa Barbara Art Museum
The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is full of diversity, rich in culture and is located in downtown Santa Barbara. The museum offers rotating exhibits, guest lectures, orchestra performances and classes for adults and children to enjoy. Treat yourself to a day in downtown Santa Barbara at this elegant art museum.
MOXI
The Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation
An interactive museum where adults and children can play, create, discover and learn more about science, technology, engineering, math and the arts through various hands on rotating exhibits. Test the limits to what you can discover and create at MOXI!