Waterfront Travel Guide
Santa Barbara
Popular places to visit
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.
Leadbetter Beach
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Leadbetter Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Santa Barbara. While you're in the area, stroll along the marina.
East Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at East Beach during your trip to Santa Barbara? Stroll along the seaside or seek out the cycling trails.
Cabrillo Pavillion
Cabrillo Pavillion is just one of the places to see in Santa Barbara, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along the waterfront or seek out the cycling trails.
Outdoors Santa Barbara Visitor Center
Explore the lovely green spaces of Outdoors Santa Barbara Visitor Center and enjoy the cycling trails in Santa Barbara. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Chase Palm Park
Chase Palm 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.
Things to do
Santa Barbara: Full-Day 7-Speed Bike Rental with Area Map
Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara: Beach and Coastline Helicopter Tour
Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board Rental
Top hotels in Waterfront
Hotel Santa Barbara
Hotel is in great location. Close to everything. Everyone was very friendly. Had a great 3 nights stay and would highly recommend.
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
Sandpiper Lodge
Location
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2026
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Avania Inn was a quiet and comfortable location when we stayed there for a concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl in April 2026. Staff was wonderful. The breakfast was good.
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
We had a nice stay at this hotel. The rooms were clean and well-kept. The staff was friendly and helpful, which made our stay comfortable. Breakfast didn’t have a huge variety, but everything was fresh, tasty, and nicely prepared — it was more than enough. Overall, we really enjoyed our stay and ...
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
The “Terrible”overall rating is due to the manager, M.R. We asked if we could check in 55 min early. M.R. stated that there was a room available but the early check-in fee would be $20.00! What a complete turn off. $20 for a “early” 55 min check-in. If M.R. is a reflection of this hotel’s management ...
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
Great room with a partial view of the ocean. Staff was really nice and the check in and out was super easy.
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Waterfront
Santa Barbara Beach
Santa Barbara Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Stearns Wharf and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation.
East Beach
East Beach is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like East Beach and Santa Barbara Zoo.
The Funk Zone
Travellers come to The Funk Zone for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation and Santa Barbara Art Foundry while you're in town.
Lower State
While visiting Lower State, you might make a stop by sights like MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation and Moreton Bay Fig Tree.
Eastside
While Eastside isn't home to many top sights, Santa Barbara Zoo and East Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.
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.
