You know that the nearby beaches of San Diego are my family’s frequent stomping grounds, but did you know there’s another coastal California town that has our hearts? Picturesque Santa Barbara is one of our favorite places in the world. Mike, my husband, spent four incredible years at UCSB, and now our son Owen is starting his second year there.
Our visits to Santa Barbara are always filled with nostalgia, excitement, and cherished family moments. Here’s our personal guide to enjoying Santa Barbara with little ones and teens alike, packed with our favorite spots and activities.
13 Things to Do in Santa Barbara
Hit the Beach
Santa Barbara boasts two main beaches, East Beach and West Beach, located at the end of State St. These beautiful beaches offer plenty of space, ensuring you won’t feel crowded even during peak seasons, except perhaps on the 4th of July.
Santa Barbara is often cooler than our ideal swimming weather, but it is fun to take a stroll along the shore, collecting seashells, and watching the seagulls.
Shop & Dine Along State St. Promenade
State St. is the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara, filled with unique stores and dining spots. Most of it is blocked off to be a pedestrian walkway so you can leisurely stroll with the kids.
Our family loves the eclectic mix of shops here. Some of our favorites include Brandy Melville for trendy finds, McConnell’s Ice Cream for a sweet treat, and Vuori for stylish activewear. Fun fact, we used to run a beauty store on this street before we were married!
Our favorite restaurants aren’t on State St. Promenade! We always make a stop at Los Agaves for some delicious Mexican cuisine. You order at the counter and the outdoor patio seating is great for big families. As for breakfast, you have to stop in at The Shop Kitchen. We all agree it’s one of our top 5 breakfast spots ever (don’t miss the Frenchie)!
Santa Barbara Zoo
The Santa Barbara Zoo is one of our top spots, especially with little ones in tow. It’s smaller and easy to navigate but still offers plenty to see. The zoo is home to over 500 animals, and fun attractions like the Zoo Train make it even more enjoyable.
We love how the zoo is laid out, making it easy to walk through and see everything without feeling overwhelmed. The kids always get excited to feed the giraffes and ride the little train around the zoo. It’s a perfect way to spend a few hours, and the memories we make here are priceless.
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
For a dose of culture, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art is perfect. They offer holiday workshops and weekend art camps that our kids love. Plus, children under six get free entry, making it a budget-friendly option for families.
The museum’s diverse collection and engaging programs make it a favorite stop for us. The kids enjoy the interactive exhibits and the opportunity to get creative in the art workshops. It’s a wonderful way to introduce them to the world of art and let their imaginations run wild.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is gorgeous. The trails showcase unique plants from California’s diverse habitats. It’s a peaceful place to explore at your own pace, and the guided tours on weekends are educational and fun. Our little ones are always fascinated by the different plants and flowers, and we enjoy the tranquility of the garden.
It’s a great place to learn about the local flora and enjoy a relaxing walk amidst nature. The garden also offers various family-friendly activities and events that are both fun and educational.
Stearns Wharf
Stearns Wharf is a top attraction for many Santa Barbara visitors. It’s packed with family fun, from learning about the ocean at the Sea Center to fishing, grabbing ice cream, or enjoying a seaside dinner at one of the many restaurants. The wharf offers stunning views of the coastline and the ocean, and the various activities and attractions make it a fun and exciting place to visit.
We love walking along the pier, watching the boats, and enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Another gem is the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. From the massive Blue Whale Skeleton to Mammal Hall, the exhibits captivate our children’s imaginations. The Create Zone and Fossil Excavation areas provide hands-on educational play. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural world, and the interactive exhibits make learning fun and engaging.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
The Old Mission in Santa Barbara, dating back to 1786, is full of California history. Exploring its 12 acres, including the cemetery, museum, and gardens, is a fascinating experience. The docent-led tours offer deep insights into the mission’s history. We enjoy walking through the beautiful gardens and learning about the mission’s rich history.
Santa Barbara Trolley Company
The Santa Barbara Trolley Company offers a convenient way to see the city’s sights, and it’s so cute! With hop-on-hop-off flexibility, it’s perfect for families with young children. Highlights include East Beach, Stearns Wharf, the Old Santa Barbara Mission, and the Harbor.
The trolley ride is a fun and relaxing way to explore Santa Barbara, allowing us to see the sights without having to worry about parking or navigating. The kids enjoy the ride, and we love the convenience and flexibility it offers. It’s a great way to get an overview of the city and discover new places to visit.
Paddle Sports Center
Santa Barbara is a beach town after all, and water sports are incredibly popular. The Paddle Sports Center offers a wide selection of equipment, including SUPs, kayaks, boogie boards, and surfboards for rent. We highly recommend taking one of the kayak tours, which are excellent for the entire family!
MOXI Museum
MOXI, the Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation, is a family favorite. Its interactive exhibits on science, technology, and engineering are both educational and entertaining. We’ve heard the Fantastic Forces Courtyard and the Speed Track exhibits are awesome.
The hands-on activities and exhibits are designed to spark curiosity and creativity, making it a fun and engaging experience for kids of all ages. MOXI is definitely a must-visit for families looking to combine fun with learning.
Santa Barbara Public Market
In the heart of Santa Barbara, the Public Market offers a diverse selection of food and drinks. Parents can enjoy craft beers at The Garden while the kids indulge in organic ice cream from Rori’s Creamery. It’s a great spot for the whole family to relax and enjoy. We love the laid-back, family-friendly vibe!
Santa Barbara is more than just a beautiful destination for us; it’s a place where family memories are made. We hope our guide helps you create your own unforgettable moments in this charming coastal town.
Map of Things to Do in Santa Barbara
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