17 Amazing Things To Do in Santa Barbara With Kids
If you’re looking for the perfect place to make memories with your whole family, look no further than beautiful Santa Barbara. Known as the “American Riviera,” this coastal gem offers a stunning blend of natural beauty, rich history, and endless fun for kids of all ages.
Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is more than just a picturesque backdrop; it’s a playground waiting to be explored. Whether you are visiting for the first time or are a seasoned traveler to the Central Coast, you’ll find that this town caters brilliantly to young kids, older kids, and parents alike. It’s a place we’ve visited over the years with our family, making lots of memories with our kids.
Engaging activities are crucial for a successful family trip, and Santa Barbara delivers in spades. From interactive museums where curiosity reigns supreme to sandy shores perfect for building castles, the options are diverse. You can spend your morning learning about marine life and your afternoon enjoying a leisurely stroll down State Street. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Santa Barbara with kids, ensuring your itinerary is packed with adventure and joy.
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Outdoor Activities: Sun, Sand, and Sea
When you think of Santa Barbara, you likely picture palm trees and ocean breezes. The outdoor adventures here are second to none, providing plenty of space for energetic little ones to run free.
1. Beaches
No trip to this coastal paradise is complete without a visit to its beautiful beaches. The coastline here is south-facing, which often means gentler waves—ideal for families.
East Beach is a favorite spot for many locals and visitors. Located near Stearns Wharf, it features picnic tables, a playground, and plenty of sand for volleyball or lounging. It’s a great place for swimming, and the amenities make it easy to spend the whole day there.
For a quieter experience, head to Butterfly Beach in Montecito. It’s a wonderful place to watch the sunset or take a short walk along the water’s edge. While it lacks the extensive facilities of East Beach, its natural beauty makes it a top pick for a relaxing afternoon.
If you have a furry friend or just want a more rugged vibe, Arroyo Burro Beach Park (known locally as Hendry’s Beach) is a fantastic option. It’s dog-friendly and features the Boathouse restaurant right on the sand, perfect for grabbing a bite after exploring the tide pools.
West Beach offers calm waters perfect for launching kayaks or paddleboards. It’s also right next to the harbor, making it a convenient stop if you are planning other waterfront activities.
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2. Parks and Playgrounds
When the kids need to burn off some energy, Santa Barbara’s parks are ready to welcome you.
Shoreline Park is arguably the best place for a family picnic. Perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean, it offers sweeping views of the Channel Islands. You’ll find grassy areas for kite flying, a wooden playground for the kids, and plenty of picnic tables. It’s a great way to combine outdoor play with breathtaking scenery.
Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is a botanical wonderland in the heart of the city. With a koi pond, sensory garden, and winding paths, it feels like a secret garden. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll with a stroller or letting young kids explore different plant species. Across the street is Alameda Park, home to “Kids World,” an immense 8,000-square-foot playground that is an absolute must-visit. It’s a castle-like wooden structure that will keep children entertained for hours.
3. Hiking Trails
For families who love to hit the trails, the Santa Ynez Mountains provide a stunning backdrop and accessible hiking options.
The Douglas Family Preserve offers easy, flat trails that wind through eucalyptus groves and offer cliff-side ocean views. It’s an off-leash dog area, so expect to see some happy pups along the way.
Another good idea for a family hike is the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. While there is an admission fee, the garden offers over 5 miles of paths through native plants and redwood groves. The layout is very kid-friendly, often featuring interactive stations and plenty of shade.
Educational Experiences: Learning Through Play
Santa Barbara does an incredible job of making learning fun. The interactive museums here are designed to engage minds and spark imagination.
4. Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Tucked away in Mission Canyon, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a treasure trove for curious minds. Kids can marvel at the gigantic Blue Whale skeleton at the entrance before diving into exhibits on fossils, Native American history, and diverse ecosystems.
The museum’s backyard is a nature play area where kids can climb, dig, and explore the natural world. The planetarium offers shows that are a hit with older kids interested in astronomy. It’s a wonderful place to spend a few hours connecting with nature and history.
5. MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
Located on lower State Street near the train station, MOXI is not your typical museum. It is a three-story destination dedicated to science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM).
Every exhibit here is interactive. Kids can build race cars, create sound effects for movie clips, or experiment with wind columns. The rooftop Sky Garden offers incredible views of the city and even more water-based interactive exhibits. It’s hands-down one of the most popular attractions for families and a great time for kids of all ages.
6. Santa Barbara Zoo
Often called one of the most beautiful zoos in the United States, the Santa Barbara Zoo is built on 30 acres of lush gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Because of its manageable size, you can see the whole thing in a few hours without wearing out little legs.
You’ll spot majestic creatures like giraffes, lions, and gorillas. One of the top picks for young kids is feeding the giraffes—an unforgettable experience where you get face-to-face with these gentle giants. Don’t miss the Zoo Train, which takes you on a scenic ride around the perimeter of the park.
7. Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
Located at the Harbor, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum offers a deep dive into the region’s nautical history. From old diving suits to exhibits on surfing legends, it connects visitors with the Santa Barbara Channel and its rich maritime life. The interactive displays, like the virtual fishing game, make it engaging for younger visitors.
Cultural Attractions: History Comes Alive
Santa Barbara’s Spanish heritage is evident throughout the city, from its architecture to its street names. Exploring these cultural sites can be a fascinating adventure for the whole family.
8. Old Mission Santa Barbara
Known as the “Queen of the Missions,” Old Mission Santa Barbara is an iconic landmark. Its beautiful rose garden in the front is a perfect spot for a picnic or a game of tag before heading inside.
Self-guided tours allow you to explore the historic church, cemetery, and museum at your own pace. It’s a great opportunity to teach older kids about California history. The architecture and expansive grounds are impressive, creating a serene environment for exploration.
9. Santa Barbara Public Library
Situated downtown near the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, the Santa Barbara Public Library is a fantastic resource for traveling families. The Faulkner Gallery often hosts art exhibits, but the real draw is the children’s area.
Check their schedule for storytime programs or special crafts events. It’s a nice break from the sun and a chance for kids to engage with books and local community activities.
10. Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary
Just a short drive south of Santa Barbara, the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary offers a unique glimpse into marine life in the wild. From December through May, you can view harbor seals and their pups from the bluffs above.
It’s a natural nursery, and seeing the seals in their natural habitat is a magical experience. Make sure to bring binoculars! It’s a short, easy walk from the parking lot and a worthwhile educational detour.
Fun Activities: Adventure Awaits
If you want to mix it up with some pure fun, Santa Barbara has plenty of options that go beyond the typical tourist stops.
11. Santa Barbara Bike Rentals
With its wide, paved paths along the waterfront, Santa Barbara is incredibly bike-friendly. Renting bikes is a popular activity for families. You can find several rental shops along the beach area offering everything from cruisers to surreys (those four-wheeled bikes the whole family can pedal together).
Ride along the Cabrillo Bike Path from the Andree Clark Bird Refuge past Stearns Wharf and up to Leadbetter Beach. It’s a flat, scenic route that lets you feel the ocean breeze and take in the sights of the Santa Barbara Harbor.
12. Visit a Local Farmers Market
Santa Barbara takes its food seriously, and the local Farmers Markets are a testament to the region’s agricultural bounty. The downtown market on State Street (Tuesdays) and the Saturday market are lively events.
It’s a great way to introduce kids to different species of fruits and vegetables. You can grab fresh berries, homemade pastries, and local honey. Often, musicians perform, creating a festive atmosphere that makes grocery shopping a fun outing.
13. Playland Arcade and Stearns Wharf
Stearns Wharf is the oldest working wooden wharf in California and a hub of activity. Here you will find the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, where kids can touch sharks and sea urchins.
For a dose of nostalgia, stop by the candy shops for some treats or visit the small shops for souvenirs. While there isn’t a massive arcade on the wharf itself, the vibe is playful and exciting. Nearby in the Funk Zone or lower State Street area, you can often find fun entertainment options suitable for older kids.
14. The Funk Zone
Don’t let the name fool you; the Funk Zone isn’t just for wine tasting (though there is plenty of that for the adults!). This artsy district near the beach is full of colorful murals that make for great family photos. You’ll find kid-friendly food spots like Lucky Penny, known for its wood-fired pizzas, and places to grab an artisan ice cream. It’s a vibrant, walkable neighborhood that captures the creative spirit of the city.
Seasonal Events and Festivals: Mark Your Calendar
Santa Barbara shines year-round, but catching a special event can make your family trip even more memorable.
15. Summer Family Film Series
During the summer months, keep an eye out for free outdoor movie screenings. Locations like the Sunken Gardens at the County Courthouse often host film nights. It’s a quintessential Santa Barbara experience—laying out a blanket on the grass, enjoying a picnic dinner, and watching a family-friendly movie under the stars.
16. Santa Barbara Harbor and Seafood Festival
Held in October, this festival celebrates the local maritime culture. It’s free to enter and offers a chance to meet local fishermen, see fresh catches, and enjoy boat rides. There are usually plenty of hands-on activities for kids, making it a lively and delicious day out at the harbor.
17. Holiday Events
Visiting in December? The Santa Barbara Trolley of Lights is a huge hit. You can hop on a trolley to tour the best Christmas light displays in town. The Santa Barbara Zoo also hosts “ZooLights,” transforming the park into a winter wonderland with illuminated animal lanterns. The festive spirit on State Street, with its holiday market and decorations, makes the downtown area magical during the winter holidays.
Conclusion: Memories Made in the American Riviera
Santa Barbara offers a diverse range of activities that go far beyond a typical beach day. It is a destination where you can hike in the morning, touch a shark at lunch, and watch a sunset from a historic wharf in the evening.
Whether you are exploring the interactive exhibits at MOXI, playing tag at Shoreline Park, or simply enjoying an ice cream cone while walking down State Street, the opportunities for connection are endless. The blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and kid-focused fun makes it a top-tier choice for families.
Thanks for stopping by to read our article about things to do in Santa Barbara with kids. Happy travels!
