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Local picks in Santa Barbara

Beach fun activities

A beach day with activities that keep everyone engaged, rather than just sitting on the sand waiting for the time to pass.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Stearns Wharf image 1
Stearns Wharf image 2
Stearns Wharf image 3
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Historical landmark

Pier offers breathtaking ocean and mountain views with a peaceful, historic atmosphere. Visitors enjoy fishing off the dock and exploring hands-on marine exhibits popular with children. The area features casual dining and souvenir shops that complement the relaxing vibe.

Beautiful ocean views meet a clean beach and pier with fresh air. Walking along the beach, marina, and wharf offers romantic sunsets and nice sights of the mountains and church.

Fun and lively atmosphere draws people in with scenic views and a variety of food options. Driving over the water adds a unique and enjoyable twist to the experience.

People are saying

"The panoramic views of the mountains meeting the Pacific are breathtaking."

"You'll find fun activities like strolling, shopping, and eating with great ocean views."

"I loved walking the beach and enjoying the beautiful scenery."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 90 minutes at Stearns Wharf.

2

There are various shops and restaurants with ocean views on the wharf.

3

Visitors can walk to Stearns Wharf from nearby hotels.

02
Leadbetter Beach image 1
Public beach

Sandy beach with incredible ocean views and a glassy surface that reflects the surroundings. The atmosphere is relaxing and lively, with many people enjoying picnics, grilling, and yoga on grassy areas shaded by palms. It welcomes families and dogs, offering easy parking and nearby dining options.

Wide sandy shore offers great walking and plenty of space for kids and dogs. Clean beach features breathtaking views with a cliff and nice homes behind it, plus bathrooms for convenience.

Sunbathing and family fun happen on a beautiful beach. Swimming off course adds a challenging twist. Watching dolphins and sea lions brings extra wildlife excitement.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful and offers breathtaking views."

"It's a great spot for picnics with plenty of space and tables."

"It's so fun watching dolphins and sea lions play in the surf."

Good to know

1

Avoid swimming within 50 yards of drains or runoff at Leadbetter Beach.

2

Parking is easily accessible and close to the beach.

3

Leadbetter Beach is a great spot for picnics and gatherings without needing a reservation.

03
Shoreline Park image 1

Park on a bluff offers breathtaking ocean views and a panoramic sunset backdrop. Atmosphere stays serene and peaceful, with clean, well-maintained amenities including playgrounds, picnic tables, and BBQs. Space suits families, dog walkers, and those seeking a calm outdoor escape.

Clean, beautiful shore with private beach spots and refreshing wind. Easy access via stairs and trails from the park with excellent ocean views and multiple parking options.

A live band plays at the yacht club, adding energy to the atmosphere. The park offers a small playground for younger kids and a great tree for climbing, making it fun for families and friends.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful ocean views from the bluff."

"I loved the beautiful, panoramic ocean views from the beach."

"The views here are fantastic for fun activities."

Good to know

1

Parking at Shoreline Park is limited, so arrive early.

2

There is free parking available at Shoreline Park.

3

The park is sometimes used for special events, so check the schedule.

04
Arroyo Burro Beach County Park image 1

Beachfront setting bordered by high cliffs offers panoramic ocean views and casual vibe with friendly dogs off leash. Picnic areas and a beachfront restaurant provide indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the water. Dog washing stations and water bowls support a dog-friendly atmosphere.

A dog-friendly beach with both leash and off-leash areas welcomes many happy pups. Calm waters make it great for swimming and tide pooling, while nearby bike paths add to the outdoor fun.

Clean beach offers plenty of space for dogs to run and play. A designated dog wash area makes it easy to clean up after fun. Hours can be spent enjoying the outdoors with pets.

People are saying

"It's a great dog friendly beach for letting your dog run free."

"This beach is a great place to let your dog run free."

"It's so much fun bringing your dog to play at the beach."

Good to know

1

Dogs are allowed, with a designated off-leash area available.

2

There is free parking, but it can be tricky to find a spot.

3

Visitors should be aware of tar on the beach and in the water.

05
ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel image 1

Hostel combines modern design with private bunk pods featuring curtains and power outlets. Natural light fills spacious indoor and outdoor areas, including a patio with fire pit that encourages socializing. The atmosphere balances quiet comfort with a lively, welcoming vibe among diverse guests.

Only a 5 to 7 minute walk leads to the beach from the hostel. The location offers easy access to the beach along with nearby shops and entertainment.

Organizing new activities every day makes socializing easy and fun. Events like karaoke night bring people together to share songs from their countries.

People are saying

"You'll feel at home and meet amazing people at breakfast."

"The staff here are so friendly and make you feel like family."

"The staff makes you feel like family during fun activities."

Good to know

1

The hostel hosts daily events like free breakfast, yoga, and movie nights.

2

Open mic nights and karaoke happen regularly, fostering a social atmosphere.

3

Every night features a different activity, including BBQs and game nights.

06
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel image 1

Older building with spacious suites and large balconies offers breathtaking harbor views. Grounds feature beautiful plants creating a peaceful atmosphere, complemented by a heated pool and hot tub area. Location near the beach provides quiet surroundings despite proximity to main street.

Just steps from the hotel, the beach offers easy access for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The location sits directly across from the beach, making it simple to enjoy walks or runs along the shore.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were super friendly and helpful."

"It's right across the street from the beach!"

"The jacuzzi felt amazing in the evening."

Good to know

1

The hotel is a two-minute walk to West Beach for swimming and kayaking.

2

Happy hour features cheese, crackers, wine, and lemonade each evening.

3

The hotel offers a daily wine and cheese hour for guests.

07
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach image 1

Inn offers free bike rentals and a small pool area with a hot tub, creating a relaxed, homey vibe. Rooms show a 1960s style with dated furnishings but maintain cleanliness. Outdoor seating enhances the quiet atmosphere despite nearby traffic noise at night.

Free beach cruisers make it easy to explore the scenic beach and nearby areas. Walking distance connects the beach, downtown, and restaurants for quick access.

Complimentary beach cruisers make getting around town easy and fun. The hotel sits within walking distance of the pier and many fun attractions.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

"The rooms here are so comfortable, you'll sleep for hours."

"It's so easy to walk to the beach from here."

Good to know

1

Daily happy hour runs from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM with wine and snacks.

2

Free breakfast is included with your stay at the hotel.

3

The hotel is within a 10-minute walk to the beach and downtown.

08
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort image 1

Beachfront hotel offers breathtaking ocean views and spacious rooms with a resort vibe emphasizing outdoor activities. Amenities include bike rentals, pool, and hot tub, supporting family-friendly fun. Atmosphere varies from lively with music and bar noise to moments of calm on well-kept grounds.

The beach sits right across the street, making it easy to visit daily. It offers good swimming conditions and the resort provides amenities like beach chairs and bottled water for convenience.

Bikes and rentals offer family fun and easy exploration. A fire pit lights up for making s'mores, adding a relaxing touch to the activities.

People are saying

"You get an amazing ocean view from the room."

"It's right across the street from the beach, a super easy walk."

"The food here is fabulous and delicious; try the cappuccino dessert!"

Good to know

1

Expect a $40 parking fee and a $35 nightly resort fee.

2

No food is available on-site from 1:30 to 5:00 pm on weekdays.

3

Room service starts at 1 pm; no breakfast in bed option available.

09
Drift Santa Barbara image 1

Hotel combines upscale casual rooms with loud live music from an on-site bar that plays until early morning. Location places guests in the heart of downtown with easy access to local attractions. Amenities include a cocktail and oyster bar and complimentary bike rentals for exploring the city.

Walking distance to the beach stands out as the key feature. The spot also offers easy access to the bike path and downtown, making the beach and nearby areas very walkable.

Fun and festive amenities include surfboard rentals and bike rentals. The rental bikes add a really fun touch.

People are saying

"This Hotel's location on State Street is perfect for walking to the beach and restaurants."

"The staff's warm attentiveness made my beach stay feel incredibly special."

"Renting the complimentary bikes for a ride to the beach is a really fun activity."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a partnership with Buttonwood Vineyard, offering a buy-one-get-one-free wine tasting.

2

The hotel is located within walking distance to the beach and downtown attractions.

3

Expect noise from weddings and events that may last until 1:00am.

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Santa Barbara, California

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