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Beach spots with a nice view in Santa Barbara

Watching the horizon from the shore offers a perspective that is hard to find anywhere else.

Based on 788 Opinions
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01
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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.

Breathtaking ocean views stretch across the coastline, visible from the beach and nearby park. Paddling north reveals a full panorama with dolphins and fish weaving through kelp forests.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful and offers breathtaking views."

"The ocean views here are absolutely breathtaking."

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.

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Beach pavilion offers secluded access via about 200 steps down a bluff, leading to a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with stunning ocean views. The area remains uncrowded and serene, attracting those seeking calm and natural beauty away from busy spots.

Secluded beach with easy access via a long staircase leading directly into the ocean. Features unique rocks, tide pools, and plenty of lobster and crab shells along the shore.

Breathtaking panoramic views of the sparkling ocean, rugged cliffs, and sandy shores greet visitors along the staircase. The spot offers a peaceful atmosphere and gorgeous sunrise views that make the climb worthwhile.

People are saying

"This beach offers stunning views and a peaceful, beautiful atmosphere."

"The ocean views here are absolutely beautiful and stunning."

Good to know

1

Parking at 1000 Steps Beach is limited and located at the end of a dead-end street.

2

There are only about 150 stair steps to reach the beach, not 1000 as the name suggests.

3

I need to pay attention to the tides because at high tide, the water comes right up to the bottom of the steps.

03
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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.

Breathtaking ocean horizons meet the Santa Barbara coastline and mountain views here. The spot offers panoramic scenes of the Pacific and city, perfect for walking and soaking in the scenery.

People are saying

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

"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.

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Cliffs and trails offer breathtaking ocean views and paths that wind through oak and eucalyptus trees. Dogs roam freely off-leash in a spacious, dog-friendly area where owners gather peacefully. The atmosphere stays calm and scenic, perfect for quiet walks and watching sunsets.

Magnificent Pacific Ocean views stretch from the bluff, overlooking Arroyo Borro beach. Eucalyptus trees add to the scenic coastal walk that feels easy and refreshing.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the awesome ocean views from the cliffs."

Good to know

1

The entrance to the preserve is free.

2

Dogs are allowed off lead at the Douglas Family Preserve.

3

Parking is easy to find even over the weekend.

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Newly renovated building offers modern design and breathtaking views of hills and landscapes. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, with thoughtful amenities like Nespresso machines and sound machines enhancing comfort. Convenient features include underground parking and an elevator opening to a fountain.

Rooms offer views of mountains and hillside homes or a quiet patio overlooking Garden Street. Balconies provide a great view of the hills, perfect for sitting by large windows with morning coffee.

People are saying

"The views from the bedroom were pristine, offering beautiful sunrises."

Good to know

1

The location is ideal, within walking distance to State Street's shops and restaurants.

2

The property is well maintained and spotless, ensuring a comfortable stay.

3

Parking is available underneath the building for guests.

06
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Rooms offer spacious layouts with ocean views and private balconies overlooking the wharf and beach. The atmosphere remains quiet and peaceful despite proximity to lively surroundings. Amenities include a heated saltwater pool, spa, and private Jacuzzi, supporting relaxation and comfort.

Right on the beach with easy access to the pier and shoreline. Walking distance to restaurants, tasting rooms, and shops surrounds the area.

Rooms offer stunning ocean views from balconies and patios. Building two overlooks a grassy courtyard, pool, hot tub, ocean, and marina for a great visual experience.

People are saying

"The ocean view from the room was breathtaking and beautiful."

"It's right on the beach and a quick walk to downtown."

Good to know

1

The hotel charges an additional $32 per day for parking.

2

There is no room service or breakfast available at the hotel.

3

The bakery/cafe below the hotel causes noise disturbances early in the morning.

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Motel offers ocean views and Spanish-style rooms with unique character. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and cozy to occasionally noisy, with a laid-back vibe and access to beach activities. Evening amenities include complimentary wine and appetizers on a relaxing patio or terrace.

Located just across the street, the beach is a 1-minute walk from the motel. Some rooms offer a private jacuzzi overlooking the beach, providing a great view and easy access to the sand.

Rooms offer stunning ocean views with balconies and large windows. Views include the harbor, pier, beach, and sunsets, all visible from close to the sand.

People are saying

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

"I loved the nice view of the ocean from the balcony."

Good to know

1

Expect safety concerns due to broken locks and reports of intruders.

2

A $25 property fee is added on top of the booking price.

3

The motel offers a continental breakfast from 7:30 to 10am on weekdays.

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Rooms feature spacious layouts with unique antiques and balconies overlooking a courtyard with pool and spa. The atmosphere blends cozy seclusion with occasional noise from nearby guests. Beach access lies just steps away, enhancing the relaxing vibe.

Rooms offer beach views and balconies overlook the shore. The property sits right on the beach with easy access just steps away, plus a pool and hot tub nearby.

Rooms have balconies with ocean views and look out over the mountains and Sterns Wharf. The balcony offers a moonlit ocean scene that's easy to enjoy.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the beach right across the street."

"It's just a block or two to the beach."

Good to know

1

Parking is very problematic, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect an additional $30 fee upon arrival not included in the quoted rate.

3

A daily 'property fee' of $27.50 is charged for 'amenities'.

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Hotel offers free parking and large balconies with excellent views near the beach. Atmosphere is family-friendly with a quiet pool area and nearby playground. Location provides easy access to local restaurants and the ocean.

Rooms sit just steps from the beachfront, offering easy access for walks or runs along the shore. Views include the harbor and ocean, with nearby parks and restaurants within walking distance.

Balconies offer excellent views of the harbor, beach, and park. Rooms with sea or bay front views provide a relaxing spot to enjoy the ocean and harbor scenery.

People are saying

"It's a short walk to the beach and restaurants."

"I loved the nice view of the ocean from the balcony."

Good to know

1

Happy hour with wine and cheese is available daily from 4 PM to 5 PM.

2

The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast on Friday and Saturday mornings.

3

Parking is free and includes a charging station for electric vehicles.

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Hotel offers beachfront views and many outdoor seating areas with fire pits and live music. Atmosphere is cozy and relaxed with a European boutique vibe and quiet rooms. Amenities include multiple pools, hot tub, bicycles, and free s'mores at night.

Rooms offer beach views and the hotel sits right on the beach. Guests can use boogie boards, towels, chairs, and umbrellas before check-in.

Rooms offer ocean views with the beach right outside the door. Evenings feature lit firepits enhancing the beautiful seaside setting.

People are saying

"The beach is right outside, offering a spectacular view."

"The ocean view from my room was amazing and spectacular."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located right across the street from the beach.

2

The location is perfect for exploring nearby restaurants and attractions.

3

The hotel is pet friendly.

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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.

Upgraded rooms offer killer views of the mountains and city. The Mountain View rooms are more spacious and provide an elevated perspective.

People are saying

"It's a nice view for walking to restaurants and the beach."

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

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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