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Sightseeing in and around Santa Barbara
Please use the menu below to see what sightseeing, shopping, entertainment and dining options are available in Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara is famous for its Mediterranean climate, beautiful architecture, great food and shopping. There are numerous hiking trails, parks and golf courses. Surfing, fishing and sailing are ways to spend your time on the water. And don't forget the museums, nightlife and festivals.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
One of the most beautiful public buildings in the U.S, the Santa Barbara County Courthouse was designed in a Spanish-Moorish architectural style and is surrounded by landscaped gardens and lawns.
Go to the top of the bell tower for stunning 360 degree views of Santa Barbara from the ocean to the mountains!
A walking tour of Santa Barbara
Imagine London, Sydney or Paris – great food, great shopping, great culture. Now think of a city much, much smaller. Delete all the traffic and noisy streets. Keep the great architecture. Add wine, mountains and beautiful beaches. Welcome to Santa Barbara!
Santa Barbara is the perfect place to discover on foot or by bicycle. Enjoy a tour of this city to discover what it has to offer.
Mission Santa Barbara
This wonderfully maintained mission is probably the most beautiful of all the California missions. The grounds are lovely and the views of the ocean and mountains from the front lawn are spectacular.
Take a tour of this old mission, established in 1786, and see how life was centuries ago!
Stearns Wharf
Located at the end of State Street, this is California's oldest working wharf. Take a walk along the wharf to experience the ocean breeze and watch local fishing boats off-load their morning catches
There are also lots of restaurants where you can enjoy great food and wine. And don't forget to savor the panoramic views of the mountains and coastline.
El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park
The Presidio is a military fortress built by the Spanish in 1782. It was the last of four fortresses built in California by the Spanish – others were built in San Diego, San Francisco and Monterey.
The fortress rivals the Mission in complexity and beauty, and is one of the most significant historical buildings in Santa Barbara.
Casa de La Guerra
Another must see! Casa de la Guerra is a City Landmark, a California Landmark, and a monument to Santa Barbara's Hispanic heritage. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
As well as offering a fascinating insight into life in Santa Barbara 200 years ago, the building is still used today as a venue for public celebrations and weddings.
