Water Locations in Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara, California has 13 listed water destinations, including rivers, tourist attractions, public beaches and beaches.
All Locations
4.7(3,221)Arroyo Burro Beach County Park
This oceanfront beach with seasonal lifeguards & a grassy area for picnicking allows off-leash dogs.
4.6(6,289)Pier Santa Barbara
Stearns Wharf is California's oldest working wooden wharf, built in 1872 and stretching 2,300 feet into Santa Barbara Harbor. The 3.8-acre pier has survived storms, tornadoes, and fires over 150 years and today hosts restaurants, a shellfish market, the Sea Center marine museum with interactive touch tanks, a winery, and free fishing access. The Dolphin Fountain sculpture marks the entrance, and visitors enjoy panoramic views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Channel Islands.
4.6(1,879)Leadbetter Beach
City beach offering both white sand & a grass lawn, plus picnic areas, showers & restrooms.
4.5(239)East Beach
Long, palm-lined sandy beach known for its sunsets & volleyball, lifeguarded during summer months.
Things to Do Near Santa Barbara
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Boat & sunset cruises
Sunset sails, dolphin watches, and harbor tours.
Search on ViatorKayak & paddleboard
Calm-water rentals and guided paddles.
Search on ViatorGuided outdoor tours
Local guides for the area's best spots.
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Half- and full-day trips with local guides.
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Stay near Santa Barbara
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Pack for the water
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Your Guide to Water Activities in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, California offers diverse water recreation opportunities for visitors and locals alike. Whether you're looking for peaceful lakeside relaxation, exciting waterfall hikes, or family-friendly beach days, you'll find the perfect spot in our comprehensive guide.
What to Expect
- •Real-time weather forecasts and crowd predictions for each location
- •Detailed amenity information including parking, restrooms, and accessibility
- •User reviews and ratings from fellow outdoor enthusiasts
- •Photos, directions, and tips for making the most of your visit
Plan Your Visit
Browse our curated selection of 13 water locations in Santa Barbara to find your next adventure. Each listing includes comprehensive details to help you plan the perfect outing, from sunrise kayaking sessions to sunset beach walks.