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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Goleta

Scenic views

The eyes need a horizon line that stretches further than the nearest wall.

Based on 493 Opinions
+490
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Updated May 2026
01
Coronado Butterfly Preserve, The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County image 1
Coronado Butterfly Preserve, The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County image 2
Coronado Butterfly Preserve, The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County image 3
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Nature preserve has long walking trails with gorgeous ocean views and a monarch butterfly grove. Kids enjoy the secluded beach path and peaceful shade by the creek. Songbirds fill the meadow, making it great for families and nature lovers.

Long walking trails offer stellar views of the ocean and mountains. The preserve features many paths with gorgeous scenery throughout.

People are saying

"The ocean and mountain views here are gorgeous."

"The views here are gorgeous, with ocean and mountain scenery."

Good to know

1

The entry fee is about $20 per person.

2

There is free parking along the street.

3

The hike is kid-friendly.

02
Lake Los Carneros Park image 1

Small lake with lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers offers a peaceful spot for walking, kayaking, and fishing. Plenty of ducks and birds add charm while the well-kept loop trail provides beautiful mountain views and wildlife sightings especially at sunset.

Views include mountains, lakes, and wildlife. The scenery is especially nice around sunset.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful escape with a beautiful lake and natural trails."

"I loved the nice view of the lake and mountains at sunset."

"I loved the beautiful mountain and lake views."

Good to know

1

Parking is tricky with no designated lot; use neighborhood entrances.

2

The park has a train, tractor ride, and petting zoo for children.

3

Bathrooms are limited to portable restrooms only.

03
Santa Barbara Shores Park image 1

Open shoreline offers incredible ocean views and beautiful tide pools perfect for peaceful walks and picnics. Many trails and benches make it family and dog friendly. The relaxing setting provides amazing scenery for all visitors.

Ocean views stand out with incredible and beautiful sights. The setting feels relaxing and offers amazing scenery.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful ocean views here."

"I loved the ocean views and scenery at these parks."

"The ocean views here are beautiful and amazing."

Good to know

1

Santa Barbara Shores Park allows dogs on the beach, making it pet-friendly.

2

The park features beautiful ocean views, perfect for photography.

3

Tide pools are accessible at low tide, offering a unique exploration opportunity.

04
Ellwood Mesa Coastal Trail image 1

Trails wind through coastal sage scrub and eucalyptus groves with stunning ocean views from every bluff. Wildlife like birds and lizards thrive here, making it great for birdwatching and hiking. Paths stay uncrowded, perfect for biking and walking dogs on leash.

Stunning ocean views appear from every bluff and trail. Paths through woods lead to serene bluffs with native flora and fauna and amazing coastal vistas.

People are saying

"You get the most perfect ocean view from the bluffs."

"The trails offer stunning ocean views, making it a dog friendly hidden gem."

"The coastal bluffs offer stunning ocean views from the trails."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the roadside with plenty of space.

2

There are no public restrooms nearby; the closest are at Girsh Park or Albertsons.

3

All trails are dog-on-leash; many dogs are off-leash in the area.

05
Sandpiper Golf Club image 1

Golf course offers breathtaking ocean views and a links-style feel with artfully trimmed Cypress trees. Elevation changes and holes by the water create a unique experience. Scenic vistas dominate, enhancing every moment on the course.

Ocean views dominate the landscape, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the course. Proximity to the water offers stunning vistas that enhance the overall experience.

People are saying

"The ocean views from the course are amazing."

"The golf course offers breathtaking ocean views."

"The ocean views from the course are truly amazing."

Good to know

1

The cost is $180 per round, with residents paying $80.

2

Twilight fee is $22 after 3 p.m.

3

Expect some bare spots in the fairways, especially on the front nine.

06
Goleta Monarch Butterfly Grove at Ellwood Mesa image 1

Eucalyptus grove provides a serene atmosphere perfect for peaceful walks. Trails offer magnificent ocean views from coastal bluffs. Wildlife is abundant, though butterfly sightings are rare, making it ideal for nature lovers seeking calm and beauty.

Cliff views to the ocean offer magnificent scenery. Bush walks at the Monarch Butterfly Grove lead to spectacular bluffs and ocean vistas beyond the mesa.

People are saying

"The ocean views from the bluffs are spectacular."

"Parking available on the street or in the neighborhood."

"The ocean views from the bluffs are spectacular."

Good to know

1

Dogs are required to be on a leash.

2

There was free parking available along the street.

3

The trails were muddy and some sections were impassable after rain.

07
The Ellwood at Goleta Beach image 1

Huge covered patio offers spectacular ocean views and a cozy outdoor fireplace with heat lamps. Chic atmosphere suits groups and couples seeking seaside dining. Private rooms and glass enclosures ensure comfort against wind and weather.

Ocean views dominate the scene, with clear sights of the Santa Barbara Channel and Galleta Pier. Seating near windows offers a beautiful atmosphere right on the beach.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has a spectacular ocean view."

"The salads here are excellent and fresh."

"The seaside and pier views here are mesmerizing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4pm on Saturdays with a special menu.

2

Reservations are recommended as the place fills up quickly after noon.

3

A 20% mandatory gratuity is added for parties of six or more.

08
Roof Top Bistro & Bar image 1

Rooftop setting offers panoramic views and a breezy vibe with live music that can get loud. Outdoor heaters and a fireplace keep it cozy on cool nights. Ideal for small groups seeking a fun atmosphere and scenic sights during Happy Hour.

Panoramic views stand out from the rooftop setting. Happy Hour offers a chance to enjoy the nice view alongside the atmosphere. The spot combines great views with a fun vibe.

People are saying

"I found the food and drinks to be divine."

"I enjoyed the nice view, especially during sunset."

"I loved the panoramic scenic views, especially at sunset."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features drink and food specials, typically from 4-7pm.

2

Live music occurs every Friday, enhancing the atmosphere during happy hour.

3

The rooftop is located on the 4th floor of the Hilton, offering great views.

09
Goleta Beach Park image 1

Long pier offers ocean views and mountain backdrops. Grassy picnic spots and playgrounds create a family-friendly vibe. Quiet, relaxed atmosphere suits outdoor activities like surfing and picnicking.

Ocean and mountain views stand out, especially from the pier and picnic areas. Spacious beach and well-maintained playgrounds add to the scenic experience.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful and a great place to rest."

"Parking was easy to find and there was plenty of it."

"The scenic views of the ocean and mountains are stunning, especially at sunset."

Good to know

1

Much of the beach is corded off due to sewage contamination.

2

The park has limited parking, but free parking is available.

3

The park is dog friendly, making it great for pet owners.

10
Hilton Garden Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta image 1

Hotel features a rooftop bar with spectacular views of hills and ocean. Spacious rooms stay quiet despite nearby airport noise. Amenities include a heated pool and 24-hour gym for a balanced stay.

Rooftop spots offer spectacular views of the ocean, hills, and mountains. Live music and Happy hour add to the vibe while dining or enjoying drinks.

People are saying

"The rooftop bar has amazing views of the surrounding hills."

"The beds were so comfortable."

"The rooftop restaurant offers spectacular scenic views."

Good to know

1

The rooftop bar offers happy hour specials on select items.

2

The rooftop restaurant may be closed for private events, so check ahead.

3

Parking costs $15 per night, which is an important cost to consider.

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