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Local picks in Waterfront

Scenic views

You prefer your surroundings to provide a perspective that you cannot get from the street level.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pier Santa Barbara image 1
Pier Santa Barbara image 2
Pier Santa Barbara image 3
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Tourist attraction

Long wooden pier offers stunning ocean views and a calm vibe. Visitors enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking in peaceful waters. Fresh seafood and local art add to the relaxed atmosphere and active waterfront fun.

Spectacular views include mountains, sea, and boats from the pier. Walking to the end offers postcard views of the town and calming ocean breeze.

People are saying

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

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

"The oceanfront views here are amazing and perfect for strolling."

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.

02
Deep Sea Tasting Room image 1

Wine bar boasts panoramic ocean views from indoor and outdoor spots, including a terrace over water. Guests enjoy a romantic vibe while sipping well-served wine flights. Sunsets here create a spectacular scene that blends elegance with relaxation.

Terrace seating offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean, coastline, and distant mountains. Watching the sunset here reveals a magnificent and spectacular scene over the water.

People are saying

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

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

"The ocean and mountain views from the terrace are spectacular."

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.

03
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum image 1

Spacious museum offers interactive exhibits and a wet deck for hands-on learning. Quiet, seaside vibe pairs with spectacular harbor views from the 4th floor. A periscope adds a unique angle to the scenic lookout.

The 4th floor offers spectacular views of the harbor and marina. A periscope adds an awesome perspective to the already beautiful lookout.

People are saying

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

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

"The views from the 4th floor are spectacular."

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
Stearns Wharf image 1
Historical landmark

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

Breathtaking ocean views stretch across the horizon, blending with the Santa Barbara coastline and mountain panoramas. Walking to the pier's end offers 360-degree views including rare sights like cruise ships in port.

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."

"The sunset scenic views over the ocean and harbor 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
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 that feels welcoming. Ocean and island sights add to the cool, relaxing atmosphere.

Spectacular views sit right on the sand with harbor, ocean, and island views. Cool and amazing sights surround the spot.

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 relaxing atmosphere with grassy areas for yoga and picnics. Families and dogs enjoy easy parking and nearby dining. Perfect for long walks and soaking in the picturesque setting.

Breathtaking ocean views surround the beach, offering a stunning backdrop for long walks along the nearby park. The spot provides a picturesque setting perfect for sitting and soaking in the scenery.

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 stunning."

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
Moby Dick Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

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

Meals come with spectacular sea views that include the coast and ocean. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy the sunset while dining, making the experience memorable.

People are saying

"The sunset view from the restaurant was amazing."

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

"The sunset views from the restaurant were amazing."

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.

08
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 and soaking in the scenic waterfront.

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."

"Sitting outside on the wharf with a view is awesome."

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.

09
Cabrillo Pavilion image 1

Cabrillo Pavilion offers outstanding Pacific views from two balconies and large windows. The venue is clean and modern with a beautiful patio for mingling. Strict rules ensure a smooth experience, plus there is ample parking and accessible amenities.

Outstanding views of the Pacific dominate the scene. The balcony at Cabrillo Pavilion offers a fantastic perspective of the beach.

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."

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
Santa Barbara Fish Market image 1

Fresh local fish and variety of oysters shine at this seafood market. Outdoor patio offers beautiful ocean views with benches near the water for relaxing. Lively atmosphere and early hours create a high demand spot loved by many.

Benches sit near the water, offering a spot to relax and take in the ocean view. The view remains visible even while waiting for parking, making it easy to enjoy the scenery.

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 beautiful ocean view 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.

11
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 with soft live music, perfect for both quiet meals and social nights.

Beautiful ocean views create a relaxing atmosphere. The spot offers great sea views right on the water.

People are saying

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

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

"The service here for dinner is attentive and professional."

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.

12
The Anchor Rose image 1
Restaurant

Harbor views shine from outdoor patios and a rooftop balcony. Live music adds a loud atmosphere that energizes the joyful waterfront vibe. Seating options include indoor and patio areas for enjoying the scenic marina.

Great views of the harbor and marina stand out here. The rooftop and patio offer joyful settings with clear sights of the water.

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 views are stunning, perfect for watching sailboats."

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.

13
Longboard's Grill image 1

Rooftop bar and grill offers stunning ocean views and a serene waterfront setting. Outdoor patio with heaters creates a cozy atmosphere while classic Beach Boys tunes add to the relaxed vibe. Local wildlife brings lively moments to the scenic harbor views.

Ocean and harbor views dominate the scene, with sights overlooking the sea and beach from the second deck. The setting includes heaters that keep the area warm while enjoying the stunning views.

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 scenic 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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