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Kid-friendly fun activities in Waterfront

Made for those who refuse to choose between keeping their children entertained and having a good time themselves.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Lil' Toot Santa Barbara image 1
Lil' Toot Santa Barbara image 2
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Tourist attraction

Small boat offers intimate 19-passenger cruises with clean, comfortable seating and deep cup holders. Atmosphere stays relaxed and uncrowded, with wildlife sightings like seals and dolphins common during calm waters. Suitable for families and small celebrations, it provides a quick, scenic escape on the water without a long time commitment.

Short, easy rides around the harbor offer a fun ocean experience for young kids. Friendly staff cater to children, making it a memorable activity for families with toddlers and small children.

Calm waters make the harbor trip smooth and easy on those prone to seasickness. The boat fits groups of 12 comfortably, with the captain and Garrett sharing fun facts throughout the ride.

People are saying

"It's a magical and stress-free celebration with a wonderful crew."

"The captains and crew are so friendly, sharing fun facts and great commentary."

"The crew here is super friendly and makes it fun for kids."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the boat tour to ensure availability.

2

The boat accommodates up to 19 passengers, making it suitable for small groups.

3

The boat ride costs $10 each way, providing a budget-friendly option.

02
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum image 1

Spacious museum with interactive exhibits and a wet deck where children engage directly with ocean specimens. Quiet atmosphere reflects a seaside English vibe combined with spectacular harbor views from the top floor. Activities appeal to both children and adults, offering hands-on learning about maritime history.

Interactive exhibits like the sportfishing game, periscope viewing, and boat driving simulation keep kids engaged. The wet deck offers many ocean specimens for hands-on learning that appeals to children.

Interactive exhibits make learning about maritime history engaging and fun for kids. The museum offers a memorable mix of education and entertainment.

People are saying

"You'll learn so much about local maritime history here."

"It's really Kid Friendly with lots of fun interactive exhibits."

"The interactive exhibits are really fun for all ages."

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.

03
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center image 1

Small aquarium offers interactive touch tanks with sharks, sea stars, and anemones alongside educational programs about local sea life. Upstairs features underwater simulation and jellyfish tanks, creating an intimate and engaging experience. Setting on a pier provides beautiful waterfront views that complement the exhibits.

Interactive touch tanks let kids get hands-on with sea life, including sharks. A small aquarium offers a fun, educational experience for all ages. Kids can explore sea creatures under microscopes and enjoy the wet deck area.

Interactive exhibits and touch tanks create an immersive experience that is both educational and fun. The pet a shark tank and the wet deck offer unique ways to engage directly with marine life.

People are saying

"It's really Kid Friendly with lots of interactive exhibits."

"This local spot has great displays of local sea life."

"The interactive exhibits here are so much fun for kids and adults."

Good to know

1

Admission is $14 for adults, but only $3 with WIC or SNAP benefits.

2

The Sea Center features interactive exhibits and touch tanks for hands-on learning.

3

Children aged 3 to 5 will enjoy the numerous touch pools available.

04
Santa Barbara Sportfishing Charters image 1

Spacious, well-maintained boat offers plenty of deck and cabin room for comfortable fishing trips. Relaxed atmosphere combines with gorgeous views and frequent wildlife sightings like dolphin pods and seabirds. Experienced captain guides to secret fishing spots, ensuring consistent catches of rockfish, lingcod, and halibut for all skill levels.

Captain Tony makes sure kids stay engaged by explaining things clearly and showing them how the GPS tracks fish. The trip feels relaxed and exciting, with plenty of chances for kids to catch fish and see wildlife.

Captain Tony creates a fun atmosphere focused on safety and enjoyment for all skill levels. The trip includes wildlife spotting and plenty of fishing, making it engaging for kids and adults alike.

People are saying

"Captain Tony knows exactly where to find the fish."

"Captain Tony made the day so relaxed and enjoyable for everyone."

"Captain Tony made our fun fishing activities enjoyable for everyone."

Good to know

1

Captain Tony is knowledgeable about local fishing spots and the coastline.

2

The trip includes opportunities to catch various types of fish, including rockfish and halibut.

3

Expect a fair pricing structure for the quality of the fishing experience.

05
Pier Santa Barbara image 1
Tourist attraction

Long wooden pier offers stunning ocean and mountain views with a calm, relaxed atmosphere. Activities include fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, alongside fresh seafood dining and art displays. The place draws a steady flow of people enjoying both peaceful scenery and active waterfront recreation.

Many cool shops keep kids engaged, including an ice cream and candy shop. Kids enjoy fishing off the pier in a kid-friendly environment.

Clean pier offers fun shops, a museum that is both fun and educational, and plenty of spots for fishing. Ocean, city, and mountain views make walking and relaxing enjoyable for all ages.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great view; it was amazing."

"I found lots of fun things to do and relax here."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly spot with ice cream and a candy shop."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 90 minutes at Pier Santa Barbara.

2

Live music events occur regularly at the pier, especially on weekends.

3

Happy hour specials are available at various restaurants on the pier.

06
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 beach offers plenty of space for kids to play and splash in the water. Seal pups often swim near the shore, adding a fun wildlife touch. Large areas for picnics and relaxing make it very kid and dog friendly.

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 really nice and kid friendly here."

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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Waterfront, Santa Barbara

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