Santa Barbara, with its stunning beaches, beautiful parks, and wealth of cultural attractions, is a fantastic destination for families with kids. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, educational experiences, or simply some fun in the sun, Santa Barbara has something to offer for every age group. From exploring marine life to enjoying delicious treats, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best activities, attractions, and dining options for families visiting Santa Barbara with kids.
Top Family-Friendly Activities
- Explore the Santa Barbara Zoo: Located near the ocean, this zoo is home to over 500 animals, including endangered species like the California condor and snow leopard. Kids can enjoy feeding giraffes, riding the miniature train, and exploring the play areas.
- Visit MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation: This interactive museum is designed to ignite curiosity and creativity in children. With exhibits ranging from music and sound to light and color, kids can engage in hands-on learning experiences that are both educational and entertaining.
- Stroll Stearns Wharf: Take a leisurely walk along Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara’s historic pier. Kids will love spotting sea lions, watching fishermen, and indulging in tasty treats like ice cream and saltwater taffy.
- Enjoy a Beach Day: With miles of pristine coastline, Santa Barbara offers numerous family-friendly beaches perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, and picnicking. East Beach and Leadbetter Beach are popular choices with amenities like playgrounds and volleyball courts.
- Take a Dolphin Cruise: Embark on a family-friendly dolphin-watching cruise to catch a glimpse of these playful creatures in their natural habitat. It’s an unforgettable experience for both kids and adults alike.
Outdoor Adventures for Families
- Hiking at Elings Park: This expansive park offers miles of scenic trails suitable for all skill levels. Families can enjoy hiking, biking, or simply picnicking amidst breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains.
- Kayaking at Santa Barbara Harbor: Rent a kayak and explore the calm waters of the harbor, where kids can paddle alongside sea lions and maybe even spot dolphins frolicking in the waves.
- Botanic Garden Exploration: Wander through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, where kids can discover native plants, explore nature trails, and participate in family-friendly educational programs.
- Camping at El Capitán State Beach: For a memorable outdoor adventure, plan a family camping trip at El Capitán State Beach. Set up tents under the stars, roast marshmallows over a campfire, and fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves.
- Bike Riding along Cabrillo Bike Path: Rent bikes and cruise along the scenic Cabrillo Bike Path, which stretches along the waterfront from Leadbetter Beach to Butterfly Beach. It’s a safe and enjoyable way for families to explore Santa Barbara’s coastal beauty.
Best Indoor Attractions for Kids
- Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History: Dive into the wonders of the natural world at this family-friendly museum, featuring interactive exhibits, a butterfly pavilion, and a planetarium offering captivating shows for all ages.
- Santa Barbara Maritime Museum: Explore the maritime history of Santa Barbara through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs designed to spark curiosity in young minds.
- KidSTREAM: This hands-on children’s museum provides opportunities for kids to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math through interactive exhibits and workshops.
- Ice Skating at Ice in Paradise: Cool off on a hot day with a family ice skating session at Ice in Paradise. Whether it’s your child’s first time on the ice or they’re experienced skaters, it’s a fun activity for the whole family.
- Bowling at Zodo’s: Head to Zodo’s Bowling & Beyond for a day of family-friendly fun, including bowling, arcade games, laser tag, and delicious food at the onsite restaurant.
Day Trips from Santa Barbara for Fun Family Adventures
- Channel Islands National Park: Take a boat trip to the Channel Islands for a day of hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring pristine beaches. Kids will love spotting seals, sea lions, and seabirds in their natural habitat.
- Solvang: Explore the charming Danish village of Solvang, located just a short drive from Santa Barbara. Wander through quaint streets lined with windmills, sample delicious pastries, and learn about Danish culture at local museums.
- Santa Ynez Valley: Embark on a family-friendly wine tasting tour in the scenic Santa Ynez Valley. While the adults indulge in wine tasting, kids can enjoy activities like horseback riding, visiting petting zoos, and exploring charming towns like Los Olivos.
- Santa Barbara Botanic Garden: Spend a day immersed in nature at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, where families can enjoy guided tours, nature walks, and educational programs focused on conservation and sustainability.
- Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center: Dive into the wonders of marine life at the Sea Center, located on Stearns Wharf. Kids can touch tidepool creatures, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about ocean conservation efforts.
Best Eats for Kids in Santa Barbara
- The Andersen’s Danish Bakery & Restaurant: Treat the family to delicious pastries, sandwiches, and Danish specialties at this beloved bakery and restaurant in Santa Barbara.
- Giovanni’s Pizza: Indulge in authentic New York-style pizza at Giovanni’s, a family-friendly pizzeria offering a variety of toppings and tasty appetizers.
- Santa Barbara Shellfish Company: Enjoy fresh seafood with a waterfront view at Santa Barbara Shellfish Company, where kids can feast on fish and chips, clam chowder, and grilled shrimp skewers.
- Savoy Cafe & Deli: Stop by Savoy Cafe & Deli for hearty breakfasts, gourmet sandwiches, and kid-friendly options like macaroni and cheese and chicken tenders.
- McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams: Treat the family to decadent ice cream flavors made from locally sourced ingredients at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams, a Santa Barbara institution since 1949.
Best Hotels for Families in Santa Barbara
- Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort: This family-friendly resort offers spacious accommodations, a pool with a waterslide, and easy access to East Beach.
- Fess Parker Wine Country Inn: Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara Wine Country, this charming inn offers family suites, complimentary breakfast, and a heated outdoor pool.
- Bacara Resort & Spa: Experience luxury and relaxation at Bacara Resort & Spa, where families can enjoy beachfront accommodations, a kids’ club, and numerous onsite dining options.
- The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara: Treat your family to a memorable stay at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, featuring spacious suites, a kids’ club, multiple pools, and a private beach.
- Kimpton Canary Hotel: Located in downtown Santa Barbara, Kimpton Canary Hotel offers stylish accommodations, a rooftop pool, and family-friendly amenities like complimentary loaner bikes and evening wine receptions.
Santa Barbara offers a plethora of family-friendly activities, attractions, dining options, and accommodations, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation with kids. Whether you’re exploring outdoor adventures, delving into educational experiences, or simply enjoying quality time together.
