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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Waterfront, Santa Barbara

Nice views

There is a specific kind of peace that comes from looking out at the water while you sit.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum image 1
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum image 2
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum image 3
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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'll learn so much about local maritime history here."

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

"I found the museum's interesting artifacts and interactive displays really engaging."

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.

02
Stearns Wharf image 1
Historical landmark

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."

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

"It's so quiet and relaxing here."

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.

03
Pier Santa Barbara image 1
Tourist attraction

Long wooden pier offers stunning ocean views and coastal mountain scenery. Visitors enjoy calm atmosphere with fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Fresh seafood dining and art displays add to the vibrant waterfront experience.

Spectacular views include mountains, sea, and boats from the pier. The scenery features coastal mountains and an unforgettable ocean view.

People are saying

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

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

"The sunset here paints the sky with beautiful, vibrant colors."

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.

04
Deep Sea Tasting Room image 1

Wine bar boasts stunning panoramic views from a terrace over the water, perfect for sunset watching. Atmosphere blends relaxed elegance with a romantic, friendly vibe. Guests savor well-served wine flights while enjoying harbor scenes and coastline vistas.

Terrace seating offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean, coastline, and distant mountains. Watching the sunset here reveals a magnificent ocean vista that stands out.

People are saying

"I loved sipping wine with a beautiful ocean view."

"The view from the terrace is spectacular, overlooking the ocean and mountains."

"I thought the bar was possibly the coolest I've ever been to."

Good to know

1

The wine tasting costs $20 for a selection of whites and reds.

2

The tasting room is upstairs, which may be an issue for those with mobility challenges.

3

Deep Sea Tasting Room is pet friendly, allowing dogs on the deck.

05
Santa Barbara Yacht Club image 1

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 scenic views here are spectacular, right on the sand."

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

"The food here was excellent."

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
Leadbetter Beach image 1
Public beach

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

"This beach is beautiful and offers breathtaking views."

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

"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.

07
Skater's Point image 1

Skatepark offers a spectacular sea view and a spacious layout with smooth ramps and bowls. It suits families and skaters of all levels, featuring advanced transitions that challenge kids. Beautiful scenery enhances the overall experience.

Views from the skatepark offer a spectacular sea view. The surrounding scenery is very beautiful and adds to the overall experience.

People are saying

"I found the skatepark really fun to enjoy."

"The sea view from the skatepark is beautiful."

"I found the parking available to be great and close."

Good to know

1

There is close, free parking available near the skatepark.

2

The skatepark can get crowded, especially on weekends.

3

The park has a variety of ramps, rails, bowls, and ledges for skaters.

08
Moby Dick Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers gorgeous marina views and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for families and couples. Outdoor seating provides spectacular sea views and shaded comfort. Casual vibe with music and TV suits both casual meals and romantic dates.

Outdoor seating offers spectacular sea and coast views that enhance the meal. The sunset view adds a memorable touch to the dining experience.

People are saying

"The sunset view from the restaurant was amazing."

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the oysters."

"The service here makes it a great spot for a date."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from 3 pm to 5 pm with affordable appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers 90 minutes of free parking for diners.

3

Outdoor seating is not accessible during lunch hours.

09
Cabrillo Pavilion image 1

Cabrillo Pavilion offers fantastic Pacific views from two balconies and large windows. The venue is clean and modern with a beautiful patio for mingling. It has ample parking and accessible amenities, though strict rules apply.

Views of the Pacific stand out here. The balcony views at Cabrillo Pavilion offer a fantastic beach outlook.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful venue right on the beach for weddings."

"I found the bathroom stalls to be clean and available."

"The balcony views here are outstanding, especially of the Pacific."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for $20 for the whole day.

2

The venue is strict with its rules regarding decorations.

3

Fitness amenities are available daily from 8am to 5:30pm.

10
Sushi Go Go image 1
Sushi restaurant

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

"I found the sushi here to be really fresh and tasty."

"I loved the great harbor view right by the water."

"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.

11
Santa Barbara Fish Market image 1

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

"I found the seafood here to be super fresh, tasting like it was still from the sea."

"You can enjoy the fresh catch on the patio seating."

"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.

12
The Harbor Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Enjoy beautiful ocean views while dining on fresh seafood in a romantic atmosphere. A lively bar lounge adds energy and noise, perfect for socializing. Soft live music in the lounge creates a welcoming vibe for all guests.

Beautiful sea views and a pretty ocean backdrop create a fantastic atmosphere. The spot offers great water views that enhance the dining experience.

People are saying

"The Duck Confit French Toast and Lobster Benedict are amazing."

"I loved the beautiful water views from the restaurant."

"The Duck Confit French Toast was amazing, truly exceeded expectations."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially for larger groups.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers during sunset hours.

3

Brunch is served on weekends with a special menu.

13
The Anchor Rose image 1
Restaurant

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 steak and scallops at these dinner spots were cooked to perfection."

"The outdoor seating offers a beautiful harbor view."

"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.

14
Lil' Toot Santa Barbara image 1
Tourist attraction

Small boat cruises offer intimate seating and wildlife sightings like seals and dolphins. Views provide a beautiful backdrop perfect for relaxing. The trip suits families and small groups seeking a quick, scenic escape on calm waters.

Views offer a beautiful and relaxing backdrop. It feels like a perfect escape to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

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."

"It's a perfect little escape to unwind and enjoy the nice view."

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.

15
Longboard's Grill image 1

Rooftop bar and grill offers stunning ocean views and a serene waterfront setting. Outdoor patio with heaters on the second deck keeps guests cozy while enjoying the harbor sights. Classic Beach Boys tunes add to the relaxed vibe.

Ocean and harbor views stand out with a stunning sight over the beach and sea. The second deck offers great views with heaters to keep warm while enjoying the scenery.

People are saying

"The seafood here has a great view of the water."

"I thought the Harbor Burger was surprisingly good, even with the price."

"The views overlooking the sea and beach were great."

Good to know

1

Parking at Longboard's Grill can be difficult, especially on weekends.

2

A 20% gratuity fee is automatically added to all bills for small parties.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

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Waterfront, Santa Barbara

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