Waterfront Travel Guide
Santa Barbara
Visit Waterfront
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 waterfront 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 beautiful beaches 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
"Beware if you prepay in Expedia they not only put a incidental $150 hold on your card, which is expected, but also a $375 that nobody told me about nor could explain why it was “authorized “ even though the room was fully paid for. The only explanation is “oh it automatically placed when it prepaid ..."
Reviewed on 10 Jun 2026
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
"Clean room, and comfortable beds. The property is very nice and staff are kind and friendly. Definitely would stay here again!"
Reviewed on 8 Jun 2026
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
"Nice hotel. My room had a patio with slider. Walking distance to water and downtown. Complimentary breakfast was good and coffee is offered until midnight."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Beachside Inn
"Very nice, clean hotel across the PCH from the beach. Conveniently located. Good staff."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Sandpiper Lodge
"Clean and spacious accommodations and friendly staff."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
The Franciscan Hotel
"Great stay, only negative was a poor bed frame that sagged and squeaked."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Where to stay in 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.
Montecito
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Montecito. A stop by Miramar Beach or Butterfly Beach 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 Presidio Santa Barbara might round out your trip.
West Beach
If you're spending some time in West Beach, Santa Barbara Harbor and West Beach are top sights worth seeing.
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.
