Refugio State Beach is a state park beach known for its palm-lined shore, campgrounds, and gentle waves. It’s a solid option for families or anyone spending the day outside.
Visitors come here to swim, fish, kayak, or just have a picnic overlooking the water. It’s a short drive from downtown Santa Barbara, but the beach has everything you need to make the trip worth it—including restrooms, shaded tables, and space to spread out.
Haskell’s Beach is a quiet, easygoing spot that’s great if you’re looking to avoid big crowds. The trail down to the beach starts near the Ritz-Carlton Bacara but is open to the public.
It’s an easy walk, with some shaded benches along the way and a wide stretch of sand at the bottom. Surfers come here for the steady waves, and the tide pools make it fun to explore during low tide. There aren’t many frills—just a clean beach, ocean views, and room to relax.
West Beach is the connector between Santa Barbara’s iconic Stearns Wharf and its working harbor. It’s not the most swimmable beach, but it’s perfect for paddleboarding, harbor views, and walking along the waterfront. You’ll see sailboats, seabirds, and maybe even a cruise ship off the coast. It’s one of the best beaches for taking nice walk, in our opinion..
Leadbetter Beach is one of the most popular beaches for locals here in Santa Barbara, especially students and beginner surfers. It’s located just below Santa Barbara City College and has calm waves that are perfect for longboarding, paddleboarding, or just splashing around!
There’s a large grassy lawn for picnicking, BBQ areas with ocean views, and a beachfront café if you forget to pack a lunch. The vibe is relaxed and social—great for groups, solo sunbathers, or families looking for a safe and scenic spot to enjoy the day.
Great Surfing Conditions Clear Water & Stunning Views
Arroyo Burro Beach, or Henry's Beach, is a popular destination in Santa Barbara for several reasons. First and foremost, it is a beautiful and expansive beach with clear waters, soft sand, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The beach is also known for its excellent surfing conditions and is a favorite spot among local surfers.
If you are looking for a beautiful, uncrowded spot to enjoy the California coastline, You'll want to visit Miramar Beach. Located just south of Montecito, Miramar Beach is a secluded beach known for its soft sand, clear waters, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The beach is accessible via a short hike down a steep staircase, which adds to its secluded feel.
