Upper Riviera Travel Guide
Santa Barbara
Visit Upper Riviera
Popular places to visit
Santa Barbara Zoo
Why not meet the animals who call Santa Barbara Zoo home during your holiday in Santa Barbara? Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
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.
Upper State Street
During your visit to Santa Barbara, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Upper State Street. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its cosy cafes.
Butterfly Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Butterfly Beach during your travels in Santa Barbara? Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
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.
Things to do
Santa Barbara: Full-Day 7-Speed Bike Rental with Area Map
Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)
Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board Rental
Top hotels in Upper Riviera
El Encanto Santa Barbara
Great room and nice facility.
Reviewed on 15 Jan 2026
Hotel Santa Barbara
Smells nice and super clean place
Reviewed on 16 Jan 2026
Santa Barbara Inn
Wonderful inn excellent location great service will absolutely return
Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026
Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn
Nice Stay and plenty of variety for breakfast
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Sandpiper Lodge
Spotless room
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
The price was a lot better than the Lavender Hotel next door and the room was very good!
Reviewed on 15 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Upper Riviera
Laguna
Laguna might not have many top sights, but Presidio Santa Barbara and Lobero Theater are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Upper East
While visiting Upper East, you might make a stop by sights like Mission Santa Barbara and Santa Barbara Natural History Museum.
Eastside
While Eastside isn't home to many top sights, Santa Barbara Zoo and East Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.
Mission Canyon
Visitors to Mission Canyon enjoy its gardens, and if you want to do some exploring, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is worth a stop.
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 Presidio Santa Barbara might round out your trip.
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.
