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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Barbara's best

Places with nice views

Made for those who refuse to settle for a meal or drink that does not come with a vantage point.

Based on 838 Opinions
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01
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Cliffs and trails offer breathtaking ocean views and paths through oak and eucalyptus trees. Dogs roam freely in a spacious dog-friendly area where owners gather peacefully. Calm, scenic atmosphere suits quiet walks and watching sunsets perfectly.

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.

02
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Spanish Colonial Revival architecture shines with historic murals and tile carvings. Gardens and a large lawn create an elegant atmosphere perfect for weddings. A 360-degree observation deck offers stunning panoramic views of the city, sea, and mountains.

The tower offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains from its observation deck. Visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views that cover the entire cityscape.

People are saying

"The panoramic views from the clock tower are breathtaking."

Good to know

1

The courthouse is free to visit.

2

Parking is free on side streets within a 2-3 minute walk.

3

Getting upstairs in the tower is free.

03
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Spacious museum offers interactive exhibits and a wet deck for hands-on ocean learning. Quiet, seaside vibe blends with spectacular harbor views from the fourth floor. Activities suit all ages, making maritime history engaging and fun.

The fourth floor offers spectacular views of the harbor and marina. A lookout and periscope provide awesome vantage points to enjoy the scenery.

People are saying

"You get a great view from the 4th floor."

Good to know

1

Admission is $12 per adult, with discounts for military and first responders.

2

Free parking is available for 90 minutes at the museum.

3

Interactive exhibits include a sportfishing game and a boat driving simulation.

04
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Pier offers breathtaking ocean views and a peaceful, historic vibe. Visitors enjoy fishing off the dock and exploring hands-on marine exhibits that delight kids. Casual dining and souvenir shops add to the relaxing atmosphere.

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."

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.

05
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Yacht club offers spectacular harbor views and sits right on the sand for a perfect sunset experience. Membership creates an exclusive vibe with cool ocean and island sights. Ambiance blends natural beauty with a welcoming, private feel.

Spectacular views include the harbor, ocean, and nearby islands. The location sits right on the sand, offering cool and impressive sights.

People are saying

"The nice view is spectacular, right on the sand."

Good to know

1

Membership is required for access; guests must be accompanied by a member.

2

Dining reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Parking is available on-site, but spaces can fill up quickly during events.

06
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Outdoor seating with stunning beach views faces the pier, creating a casual vibe. Games like corn hole and a sand pit add fun, while loud music boosts energy. Small space feels friendly, perfect for relaxing by the waterfront.

Views face the pier and beach, offering a stunning waterfront scene. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy the incredible location and lovely vistas.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the nice view right across from the beach."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and there is usually no wait.

2

The restaurant has outdoor seating and a kidโ€™s menu.

3

Parking is limited, but a parking deck is two blocks away.

07
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Newly renovated building features modern design and breathtaking views of hills and mountains. Quiet, peaceful atmosphere includes thoughtful amenities like Nespresso and sound machines. Convenient underground parking and elevator open 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.

08
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Large Victorian home offers peaceful gardens and a spa-like vibe perfect for relaxation. Rooms feature amazing views of mountains and ocean with private balconies. Central location provides easy access to local attractions.

Rooms offer amazing views from mountains to ocean. Many have private balconies or patios with quiet, beautiful scenery.

People are saying

"The views from the balcony were amazing and gorgeous."

Good to know

1

The inn is centrally located, just two blocks off State Street.

2

Parking is convenient and available, making it easy to explore on foot.

3

Rooms feature private patios for added comfort and relaxation.

09
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42-acre saltwater marsh hosts over 200 bird species, making it a birdwatching haven. Walking paths offer scenic views and peaceful spots with benches. The well-preserved habitat creates a serene environment perfect for nature lovers and quiet reflection.

Walking paths around the lake provide scenic views and chances to spot wildlife. The bird refuge offers a peaceful spot with a really nice view.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the really nice view from the refuge."

Good to know

1

There are no proper restrooms, so plan to go before your visit.

2

No tickets are required to access the space.

3

The walking path around the lake offers scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife.

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Sandy beach offers breathtaking ocean views and a glassy surface perfect for paddling. Grassy areas shaded by palms invite picnics and yoga, creating a lively yet relaxing vibe. Easy parking and nearby dining make it great for families and dogs.

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

"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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Secluded beach pavilion offers quiet access via 200 steps down a bluff. Visitors enjoy breathtaking ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for calm and natural beauty seekers. Stunning sunrises add to the serene experience.

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

"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.

12
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Outdoor seating offers harbor views with boats and mountains, perfect for a chill vibe. Sushi stands out for its freshness and real wasabi, making seafood top-notch. Small space means limited seating but great for watching people.

Seating outdoors offers a beautiful view of the harbor right next to the water. The small indoor space contrasts with the crowded outdoor area where you can watch people while enjoying the scenery.

People are saying

"You get a nice view right on the water."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating, so expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The menu does not list prices, so be prepared for potentially high costs.

3

Sashimi prices are reasonable compared to other sushi places.

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Rooms feature spacious layouts with stunning ocean views from private balconies. Enjoy a heated saltwater pool and private Jacuzzi for relaxation. The atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful despite nearby lively spots.

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."

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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Rooms boast stunning ocean views with balconies near the sand. Spanish-style design adds unique character and a cozy feel. Evenings bring complimentary wine on a relaxing patio, blending quiet charm with beach access.

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

"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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Building shows Spanish colonial architecture with terra-cotta tiles and wrought-iron balconies. Rooftop has a heated pool and 360ยฐ views with comfy loungers and great bartenders. Atmosphere is quiet and dog-friendly, perfect for a peaceful stay.

Rooftop pool offers breathtaking views with comfortable loungers and excellent bartender service. Suites feature wrap-around balconies providing majestic sights and a serene atmosphere for lounging.

People are saying

"The rooftop offers a beautiful view of Santa Barbara."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Sunday to Thursday from 4-6 pm with free snacks.

2

A daily wine social occurs at 5 pm, offering complimentary wine.

3

Valet parking costs $50 per day, which is quite steep.

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Harbor views shine from rooftop patio and balcony, perfect for scenic moments. Live music adds a loud atmosphere that energizes the space but can clash with the joyful vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating let you enjoy the marina sights day or night.

Great views of the harbor and marina stand out here. The rooftop and patio seating offer beautiful sights even in fog or darkness.

People are saying

"The harbor view from the rooftop is stunning."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily with discounted drinks and food.

2

Reservations are not required and no upfront fees are needed for group bookings.

3

The restaurant is dog friendly, allowing pets in certain areas.

17
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Rooms offer spacious layouts with balconies showcasing ocean views and mountain scenery. Unique antiques add charm while the courtyard pool and spa create a relaxing vibe. Beach access is just steps away, blending cozy seclusion with lively nearby guests.

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."

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'.

18
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Hotel blends beachfront views with a cozy, European boutique vibe. Guests enjoy quiet rooms and multiple pools plus a hot tub. Outdoor spaces feature fire pits and live music, creating a relaxed seaside atmosphere.

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

People are saying

"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.

19
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Fresh local fish and variety of oysters make seafood lovers happy. Outdoor patio with ocean view offers a relaxing spot to eat and watch the sea. Lively atmosphere and early hours show high demand and quick sell-outs.

Benches sit near the water, offering a spot to relax and take in the ocean view. People often watch the sea while waiting for parking.

People are saying

"You can enjoy the nice view of the ocean from the benches."

Good to know

1

Sea urchin availability depends on stock, so call to confirm before visiting.

2

Certain products are only available early in the morning.

3

They offer to-go food such as seared fish and poke.

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Hotel features large balconies with excellent harbor views and easy beach access. Family-friendly vibe shines with a quiet pool area and nearby playground. Free parking adds convenience for guests exploring local restaurants and the ocean.

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

"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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Courtyard blends historical and modern architecture with a lively atmosphere full of street and pool noise. Bright rooms feature microwaves and USB ports for convenience. Rooftop terrace offers panoramic mountain views and two decks with TVs perfect for small events.

Two elevated outside decks feature TVs and mountain views, ideal for small events. The rooftop offers an incredible view of the Santa Barbara area, while the remodeled rooms provide a wonderful, light-filled outlook.

People are saying

"It's a nice view, and you can walk everywhere."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located a few blocks from State Street, making it easy to explore.

2

The hotel is newly renovated and very clean.

3

Rooms are spacious and comfortable, ideal for families.

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