Santa Barbara, a jewel nestled between the shimmering Pacific Ocean and the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains, beckons families with its Mediterranean climate, breathtaking scenery, and a plethora of activities. From idyllic beaches and an engaging zoo to upscale resorts and delectable restaurants, the reasons to fall in love with this California coastal paradise are seemingly endless. While the iconic Santa Barbara Mission stands as a testament to the city’s rich history, a family-focused itinerary filled with interactive experiences, such as exploring a hands-on science museum or catching a wave with a surf lesson, promises to create unforgettable memories for children of all ages.
The summer months offer the perfect backdrop for long, sun-drenched days on the beach, followed by the sweet indulgence of Rori’s Artisanal Creamery’s classic flavors. However, the allure of summer also brings larger crowds and longer wait times. For a more relaxed experience, consider whisking the kids away for a long weekend in September, when the weather remains delightful, and the city and beaches are less congested. Regardless of the time of year you choose to visit, Santa Barbara offers a wealth of engaging activities that will captivate and delight children.
Here’s a curated list of the 12 best things to do with kids in Santa Barbara, ensuring a memorable and fun-filled family vacation:
1. Ride the Iconic Trolley
Embark on a delightful journey through Santa Barbara aboard the iconic Santa Barbara Trolley. This 90-minute sightseeing tour provides a fantastic overview of the city’s key landmarks, including Stearns Wharf, East Beach, the Santa Barbara Zoo, and the historic Old Santa Barbara Mission. The charming red trolley has been a fixture in Santa Barbara for over 30 years, offering narrated tours that bring the city’s history and culture to life. For larger groups, the trolley company also provides special services and accommodations for parties and weddings, making it a unique and memorable way to celebrate special occasions.
- Address: 1 Garden St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
- Phone: +1 805-965-0353
2. Visit Channel Islands National Park
Venture beyond the mainland and explore the wonders of Channel Islands National Park. This unique national park, comprised of five protected islands, offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness diverse wildlife and breathtaking marine life. From Santa Barbara Harbor, embark on a ferry to one of the islands and immerse yourselves in the pristine beauty of this natural sanctuary. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales breaching in the Pacific Ocean, a truly awe-inspiring sight.
For a more adventurous experience, consider arranging a guided kayak trip with a tour operator like the Santa Barbara Adventure Company. Paddling around the islands provides a closer look at the dramatic coastline and hidden coves, creating an unforgettable adventure for the whole family. This off-the-beaten-path destination offers a welcome escape from the crowds and a chance to connect with nature in a profound way.
- Address: 301 West Cabrillo Boulevard, Santa Barbara Harbor, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
- Phone: +1 805-882-0088
3. Look Out for Seals in Carpinteria
Take a short drive down the coast to Carpinteria and visit the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary, home to a thriving colony of harbor seals. Follow the scenic hiking and biking routes of the Coastal Vista Trail, which winds along the bluffs south of Carpinteria, to reach this remarkable location.
From the overlook, observe nearly 100 adult harbor seals and their adorable pups lounging on the sand and frolicking in the water. The best time to witness this spectacle is between December and May, when the seal population is at its peak due to the birthing season. While direct access to the beach is restricted to protect the seals, the elevated viewing point provides an excellent vantage point to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Remember to bring binoculars for an even closer look!
- Address: 5669 Carpinteria Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013, USA
- Phone: +1 805-684-2247
4. Get Hands-on at MOXI
Ignite your children’s curiosity and creativity at MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation. This interactive science museum is designed to promote STEAM-based learning through engaging exhibits and hands-on activities.
Explore a variety of exhibits, including the Sound Track exhibit where kids can create their own guitar riffs on a giant guitar and experiment with a futuristic DJ table. The Innovation Workshop provides a dedicated space for all ages to design and build using both low- and high-tech tools. MOXI encourages exploration, experimentation, and discovery, making it a perfect destination for families seeking a fun and educational experience. Purchase tickets in advance to ensure entry to this popular attraction.
- Address: 125 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
- Phone: +1 805-770-5000
5. Ride the Lil’ Toot
Experience the charm of Santa Barbara Harbor aboard the Lil’ Toot Water Taxi, affectionately known as the "Happiest Boat in the Harbor." This inexpensive half-hour tour provides a unique perspective of the harbor and Stearns Wharf, the longest deep-water pier between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
The Lil’ Toot makes continuous loops between the harbor and the wharf, offering taxi rides and harbor tours on a first-come, first-served basis. Alternatively, purchase tickets online for a sunset cruise, a whale-watching cruise, or a narrated boat ride. Enjoy the fresh sea air and stunning views as you cruise along the harbor, creating lasting memories with your family.
- Address: Santa Barbara Harbor, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, USA
6. Hit the Beach
No visit to Santa Barbara is complete without spending time on its beautiful beaches. East Beach, stretching from Stearns Wharf to the Andree Clark Bird Refuge, is the city’s most popular beach and a vibrant hub of activity.
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles on the expansive sandy shores. The beach is bordered by a grassy, tree-lined park with a children’s playground, volleyball courts, rollerblading trails, food vendors, picnic facilities, and showers. For a quieter experience, venture to Arroyo Burro Beach, a hidden gem away from the crowds. Dog lovers will appreciate Butterfly Beach, one of the few area beaches where dogs can roam leash-free.
- Address: East Beach, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
7. Feed a Giraffe at the Zoo
The Santa Barbara Zoo, nestled on 30 acres with stunning ocean views, offers a delightful experience for animal lovers of all ages. This manageable zoo houses over 500 animals representing 160 species of mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects in replicated natural habitats.
Highlights for children include a ride on the miniature train and the opportunity to hand-feed the majestic Masai giraffes. The zoo’s intimate size allows for a relaxed and enjoyable exploration, making it a perfect destination for families with young children. The Santa Barbara Zoo is a must-see.
- Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93103, USA
8. Explore on Two Wheels
Discover the beauty of Santa Barbara’s waterfront by cycling along the scenic coastal bike path that runs along East Beach. Wheel Fun Rentals offers a wide selection of pedal-craft, from mountain bikes and beach cruisers to tandems, surreys, and deuce coupes.
For adventurous families, consider heading to the Los Padres National Forest just outside of Santa Barbara, where singletrack trails range from moderate to strenuous and offer breathtaking views of the coast. Exploring Santa Barbara on two wheels provides a fun and active way to experience the city’s natural beauty. The beautiful city of Santa Barbara offers so much to explore.
9. Touch a Shark
Engage with marine life in a hands-on environment at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History’s Sea Center, located on Stearns Wharf. This interactive museum features a variety of exhibits that allow children to get up close and personal with sea creatures, including a leopard shark, sea anemones, and hermit crabs.
The museum’s 1,500-gallon tidepool tank features a crawl-through tunnel, offering a unique perspective of sea life from below. Head to the wet deck for a magnified peek at the marine world under your feet. Children can even participate in activities like taking water samples, just like a real oceanographer.
- Address: 211 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101-3584, USA
- Phone: +1 805-962-2526
10. Learn to Surf
Catch a wave and learn to surf in nearby Carpinteria. A-Frame Surf Shop offers beginner surf classes tailored to all ages and skill levels. Trained instructors provide personalized instruction in a safe and supportive environment.
Book a 90-minute private lesson or a longer group lesson to experience the thrill of riding the waves. If paddleboarding on calm waters is more your speed, check out the Santa Barbara Sailing Center in Santa Barbara Harbor for rentals and tours. Santa Barbara offers plenty of ways to enjoy the water.
- Address: 3785 Santa Claus Ln, Carpinteria, CA 93013-1109, USA
- Phone: +1 805-684-8803
11. Tour a Botanical Garden
Immerse yourselves in the beauty of native California flora at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Families can enjoy free guided walks around the 65-acre garden, discovering over 1,000 species of plants and flowers with thorns, spines, and beautiful foliage.
Learn about seed travel, the role of pollinators, and look for animal tracks and droppings along the way. Tours are offered on weekends and Mondays, but it’s best to call ahead for times. After the tour, browse the Garden Shop, considered one of the best local resources for books on native plants.
- Address: 1212 Mission Canyon Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA
- Phone: +1 805-682-4726
12. Shop for Picnic Fare
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Santa Barbara Farmer’s Market and gather delicious picnic provisions. This market is brimming with fresh California produce and specialty food items from the area’s top local growers and purveyors.
Find olives and olive oil, pistachios, apple pie, and a myriad of other tasty goods. The market is also a great place for people-watching, thanks to a diverse crowd of locals and visitors. The market is held on Saturday mornings in downtown Santa Barbara and on Tuesday afternoons in Old Town on State Street.
- Address: Corporate Office, check website for locations, 232 Anacapa St Ste 1A, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
- Phone: +1 805-962-5354
With its stunning natural beauty and a wealth of engaging activities, Santa Barbara offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable family vacation. From exploring the Channel Islands to feeding giraffes at the zoo, the memories created in this California coastal paradise will last a lifetime. Enjoy your time in Santa Barbara.
