The Mesa Travel Guide
Santa Barbara





Popular places to visit

Arroyo Burro Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Arroyo Burro Beach during your travels in Santa Barbara? Take in the entertainment choices and sunsets in the area.

Shoreline Park
Shoreline Park is just one of the places to see in Santa Barbara, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the top-notch restaurants in this walkable area or seek out the cycling trails.

Santa Barbara Harbor
Explore the waterfront in Santa Barbara with a trip to Santa Barbara Harbor. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Santa Barbara County Courthouse
See the best views of Santa Barbara and enjoy a stunning variety of architectural styles at the city’s historic courthouse.

Stearns Wharf
Explore the waterfront of Stearns Wharf and enjoy other activities such as cycling in Santa Barbara. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Santa Barbara Bowl
Enjoy a show at Santa Barbara Bowl, a popular theatre in Santa Barbara. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Things to do

Santa Barbara: Full-Day 7-Speed Bike Rental with Area Map

Santa Barbara: Beach and Coastline Helicopter Tour

Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board Rental
Top hotels in The Mesa

Hotel Santa Barbara
Beautiful hotel. Couldn't have asked for more. Room was beautiful Location, location, location. Staff was very friendly. 15 min walk to the beach and Stearns Wharf.
Reviewed on 26 Mar 2026

Sandpiper Lodge
Everyone was very kind and helpful. Loved that it was so close to town. The only downsize is that pulling into the property is a little inconspicuous.
Reviewed on 27 Mar 2026

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
👍
Reviewed on 28 Mar 2026

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
This is a very nice property. Room was spacious and updated. Right off the freeway. Slightly north of downtown SB but still easy to get back and forth. Breakfast was also wonderful. Would stay again if on a roadtrip.
Reviewed on 28 Mar 2026

Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn
Great location; beautiful room, comfortable bed
Reviewed on 28 Mar 2026

Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Clean rooms and great location off the highway.
Reviewed on 26 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around The Mesa

Alta Mesa
When in Alta Mesa, you can plan a visit to 1000 Steps Beach and Leadbetter Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

East Mesa
If you're spending some time in East Mesa, Leadbetter Beach and 1000 Steps Beach are top sights worth seeing.

West Beach
If you're spending some time in West Beach, Santa Barbara Harbor and Carriage and Western Art Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Westside
While Westside isn't home to many top sights, Arlington Theater and Granada Theatre are some notable places to visit nearby.

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Historic Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Paseo Nuevo Mall might round out your trip.

Downtown Santa Barbara
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Paseo Nuevo Mall might round out your trip.



