Santa Barbara is an upscale coastal community with beautiful Spanish style architecture. There is so much to do in this quintessential California beach city. Enjoying time outside in Santa Barbara’s perfect climate brings me endless joy. Whenever I visit, I try to do as much as I can to stay outside. These activities have been immensely satisfying and entertaining. While there is plenty to do in this quaint city, we will be focusing on the activities that will let you enjoy the great outdoors!
Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens
Nature lovers need to look no further. The Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens are unlike any I have visited. Unlike other gardens that have incredible plants from around the world, this botanic garden solely features native plants. This does not mean it lacks beauty! The biodiverse gardens and paths show off California’s native plants in a spectacular way.
The natural paths and paved trails make for a very comfortable walk through the 78-acre garden. You will encounter minor hills and stairs, but most should find the terrain simple to walk.
Just off the entrance you will find the meadow. Here you will see picturesque views of the Santa Ynez Mountains with peaks reaching 4,000 feet. In the spring, the California Poppies bloom. Their vibrant orange petals shine brightly against the dramatic background of the mountain peaks.
From the meadow you can follow the path to see the soaring Redwood trees. This is my favorite portion of the gardens. Let peaceful energy wash over you as you stand so small next to these century old trees. Listen for the waters that run nearby. Bask in the shade provided by these goliath trees.
As you walk around this botanic garden, you can see the work that goes into the conservation efforts of protecting and restoring these native plant habitats. Walking all the trails takes time, but it is worth it to see all the incredible work being done at this botanic garden.
When visiting, be sure to book reservations, they are often required for entry.
Santa Barbara Zoo
The Santa Barbara Zoo is charming and packed full of wildlife. I particularly love this zoo because the enclosures are well thought out. There are over 350 animals here. Crowd pleasers such as African Lions, Humbolt Penguins, Western Lowland Gorillas, Red Pandas, Capybaras, and Masai Giraffe all call this zoo home.
There are plenty of animals to see and a ton of activities for the entire family. You can find zookeepers giving talks at specific habitats during the day.
For extra fees, this zoo offers so many attractions and experiences.
Take a ride around the perimeter on the “Zoo Train”.
Climb the 26-foot-tall rock wall!
Book a walking tour and learn even more about the animals.
Brush the goats!
My personal favorite experience is feeding the Masai Giraffe. They will grab romaine right out of your hand with their long tongues! This was the giraffe I had the pleasure of feeding.
For those with larger budgets, you can book a group animal encounter. They typically are 20-30 minutes in length, and you can learn more in depth about the animals and their care. You may even get to feed some of the animals, depending on the encounter you book.
Land and Sea Tour
All aboard the amphibius bus! Get ready to drive around the city and then drive right into the ocean! Hop aboard the Landshark for a 90-minute city and sea tour. You will get to see historical landmarks and learn all about Santa Barbara history and modern-day attractions.
Driving directly into the ocean is an experience I will never forget. Everyone on the bus was giddy and laughing during the transition. We sailed around passing yachts, commercial boats, and plenty of sea lions. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and entertaining. I had a great time. This tour was a wonderful way to experience Santa Barbara.
Bike and Surrey Rentals
Conveniently located near the wharf and the funk zone, is Wheel Fun Rentals. Here you can rent bikes, e-bikes and surreys. RENT A SURREY! That is not a recommendation, it is a demand. My friend and I pedaled our way around State Street, belly laughing. Forget trying to get up a hill, you will be pedaling for your life out there! Stick to the flat surfaces and enjoy looking silly, pedaling for two. You can ride a normal bike anywhere, get the surrey! We both hold on to the memory of that ride fondly. It is truly a bonding experience.
Stearns Wharf and Beaches
You can’t go to Santa Barbara without going to the beach! Come and dip your toes into the fresh and cold Pacific Ocean waters. Let the sun warm your skin as you lay in the sand. West Beach is snuggled in the harbor where you can kayak, paddleboard, windsurf or swim. This beach is excellent for boat watching due to the harbor activity. It also makes for a great picnic spot. It is located on State Street, making it near lots of restaurants. Street parking is available but be sure to read the parking signs.
Stearns Wharf Pier bisects the two beaches. This is the oldest working wharf in California! There you will find restaurants, shops and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center.
East Beach stretches 4 miles from the wharf to the end of the city limits! For beach sports fans, there are volleyball courts. For families, there is a playground!
Whichever beach you choose, you will have beautiful views of the town and the ocean. Unfortunately, dogs aren’t allowed on either of these beaches.
If you find yourself in beautiful Santa Barbara, I hope you can enjoy any and all of these activities to create some memories of your own. If you are looking for more to do in the area, check out my Santa Barbara County Wine Tasting Guide. I hope you have a joyous journey!
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