Santa Barbara, located along the stunning southern California coastline, is the perfect destination for families seeking fun, relaxation, and educational experiences. With its mild Mediterranean climate, beautiful natural landscapes, and variety of family-friendly attractions, this vibrant city offers something for everyone. From zoo visits to beach days, Santa Barbara provides a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culture, making it one of the best places to explore with kids. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Santa Barbara offers a range of activities that will keep your little ones entertained while giving you the opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty while providing engaging activities makes it an ideal spot for family vacations. Santa Barbara is home to several world-class museums, scenic parks, beautiful beaches, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Additionally, Santa Barbara’s laid-back atmosphere ensures that your family can enjoy both indoor and outdoor experiences in a relaxed and friendly environment. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for another unforgettable experience, here are 12 amazing things to do in Santa Barbara with kids.
1. Santa Barbara Zoo
The Santa Barbara Zoo is not just an ordinary zoo—it’s a destination that blends animal education with fun and relaxation in a stunning natural setting. Located on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it offers one of the most picturesque zoo experiences in the country. The zoo is home to over 500 animals, ranging from exotic creatures like giraffes, lions, and tigers to native species such as sea lions and birds of prey. The zoo’s interactive exhibits, including animal feedings, touch stations, and up-close wildlife encounters, engage children and help them learn about animal care and conservation.
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A highlight for many visitors is the carousel, where kids can ride on a variety of animals. For an even more memorable experience, families can book a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about the zoo’s conservation efforts, animal health programs, and how they care for the animals. This combination of education, fun, and spectacular views makes it a must-visit location for families.
2. Visit the Beach
Santa Barbara’s beaches are renowned for their beauty and family-friendly amenities, making them perfect for a day of sun and sand. East Beach is particularly popular with families, offering calm, gentle waves ideal for children to splash around in. Butterfly Beach, located near the luxurious Montecito neighborhood, provides a peaceful, picturesque setting for families to relax and enjoy a picnic. The expansive sand at both beaches provides ample space for kids to build sandcastles, fly kites, or simply run around. In addition, both beaches are equipped with playgrounds, ensuring children have plenty of ways to play.
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Visitors can also rent bikes, rollerblades, or even surreys to explore the scenic beachfront paths. With picnic tables and breathtaking ocean views, these beaches are a fantastic choice for a day out with the family.
3. Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a captivating destination where children and families can learn about the wonders of the natural world. With exhibits covering everything from dinosaurs and fossils to marine life and the stars, the museum offers a diverse and engaging experience. The interactive exhibits, such as the fossil dig area where kids can uncover ancient remains, provide a hands-on learning experience. The museum also features a tidepool display, where children can explore marine life up close. Families can enjoy the museum’s outdoor butterfly garden, where kids can learn about the lifecycle of butterflies and the importance of pollinators. The planetarium offers exciting shows about space and the universe, allowing families to gaze at the stars and planets while learning about astronomy. With its mix of interactive exhibits and educational programs, this museum is a perfect spot for curious minds.
4. Chase Palm Park
Chase Palm Park is a beautifully scenic park along Santa Barbara’s waterfront, perfect for a day of relaxation and play. The park boasts an expansive playground with structures designed for children of all ages. From swings and slides to climbing walls and tunnels, kids can explore and play in a safe, fun environment. One of the park’s most charming features is its carousel, which is a hit with younger children. The park is also a great spot for picnicking, with plenty of grassy areas offering sweeping views of the ocean. For those who enjoy a leisurely stroll, the park features a beautiful promenade that stretches along the beach, ideal for walking or biking while taking in the stunning coastal scenery. With so much to offer, Chase Palm Park is a delightful destination for families to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.
5. Rent Bikes
Santa Barbara’s bike-friendly environment makes it one of the best places to explore on two wheels. Families can rent bikes from local shops and cycle along the city’s many scenic routes. The bike paths along the coast offer spectacular views of the ocean, while rides through charming neighborhoods and historical districts provide a chance to discover hidden gems. For younger children or those who might need a little extra help, many rental shops offer kid-friendly bikes, trailers, or even tandem bikes. Cycling along the waterfront, through the downtown area, or to nearby beaches is a great way to experience the city’s natural beauty, while also getting some exercise and fresh air. The leisurely pace and beautiful surroundings make bike rentals a great family activity.
6. Moxi, The Incredible Wolf Museum
The Moxi Museum, also known as the Wolf Museum, is a dynamic and exciting destination where children can dive into science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through interactive exhibits. The museum is filled with hands-on activities that engage kids in critical thinking and problem-solving. Children can experiment with engineering challenges, create their own inventions, and explore the world of robotics. With its modern design and innovative approach to learning, the Moxi Museum encourages creativity and curiosity in children of all ages. Each exhibit is tailored to different age groups, so whether kids are building structures or learning about the latest technology, there is something for everyone. The museum fosters a love for STEM fields while providing an enjoyable, educational experience.
7. Stearns Wharf
Stearns Wharf is Santa Barbara’s iconic pier, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of attractions for all ages. Visitors can stroll along the pier and take in spectacular views of the ocean, harbor, and distant mountains. The Sea Center, located at the end of the pier, is a must-see for families. This interactive museum features exhibits on marine life, where kids can touch starfish, sea urchins, and other sea creatures in the touch tanks. The wharf is also home to various shops, cafes, and ice cream stands, making it a great place to grab a treat and enjoy the sights. Families can enjoy watching sea lions basking in the sun or even spot dolphins and other marine life in the water. The relaxed, scenic setting and variety of activities make Stearns Wharf an enjoyable stop for the whole family.
8. Kids World
Located in Alameda Park, Kids World is a delightful playground designed specifically for younger children. The playground features a giant pirate ship, jungle gyms, swings, and slides, providing endless opportunities for imaginative play and physical activity. The park’s themed areas, such as a castle, train, and treehouse, encourage creativity and exploration, while the spacious layout ensures there’s plenty of room for kids to run and play. It’s a great spot for children to socialize with other kids and burn off energy while parents relax nearby. With its unique design and safe, open space, Kids World is a fantastic place for younger children to enjoy outdoor fun.
9. Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a peaceful and beautiful place for families to connect with nature. It features a vast collection of native California plants, showcasing the region’s diverse flora. Kids can explore the many walking trails, observe the vibrant flowers and plants, and learn about the local ecosystem. The garden offers educational programs and nature walks, where children can learn about the environment and the importance of conservation. The tranquil setting provides a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy a relaxing afternoon together, surrounded by the natural beauty of Santa Barbara’s landscape.
10. Lil’ Toot Taxi
For a unique and fun way to see Santa Barbara’s harbor, take a ride on the Lil’ Toot Taxi. This colorful, small boat offers family-friendly tours of the waterfront, providing an up-close look at the harbor and coastline. The taxi is a great way for kids to see marine life, including sea lions and dolphins, while also enjoying the scenic beauty of Santa Barbara’s coastline. The fun boat ride offers a different perspective on the city and is an exciting experience for families who want to explore the water without getting too wet. It’s a delightful and relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors while learning about the harbor and its wildlife.
11. Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum offers a fascinating journey into the region’s maritime history. Through interactive exhibits, kids can learn about shipwrecks, marine life, and the local fishing industry. The museum has hands-on activities that allow children to try their hand at navigating a ship or explore the world of underwater exploration. One of the highlights of the museum is the chance to tour a historic schooner, providing an immersive experience into the maritime world. With its engaging exhibits and educational programs, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is an ideal place for families to discover the rich history of the area and the importance of the ocean in Santa Barbara’s culture.
12. Whale Watching
Santa Barbara is one of the best places in California to go whale watching, and it offers numerous family-friendly tours. Depending on the season, families can see gray whales, humpback whales, or even the majestic blue whales that migrate along the coast. Many of the tours are educational, providing fascinating insights into the lives of these giant creatures, their migration patterns, and the ecosystem of the ocean. The opportunity to see these magnificent animals up close is an unforgettable experience, and kids will love learning about marine biology and the importance of conservation efforts. Whether from a boat or the shore, whale watching in Santa Barbara is a thrilling and memorable family activity.
Conclusion
Santa Barbara is a perfect family destination, offering a wide variety of activities that cater to kids of all ages. Whether you’re visiting the zoo, taking a bike ride along the coast, or enjoying a whale-watching tour, there’s no shortage of fun and educational experiences in this beautiful city. With its charming parks, scenic beaches, and family-friendly attractions, Santa Barbara ensures that your family can enjoy quality time together while exploring the best this coastal city has to offer.
FAQs
1. What are the best things to do in Santa Barbara with kids?
Santa Barbara Zoo, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, whale watching, Moxi Museum, Stearns Wharf, and East Beach are some of the best family-friendly activities in Santa Barbara.
2. Are there beaches in Santa Barbara that are good for kids?
Yes, East Beach and Butterfly Beach are great options for families with gentle waves and plenty of space for kids to play and relax.
3. What are the top museums in Santa Barbara for children?
The Moxi Museum, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, and Santa Barbara Maritime Museum offer interactive exhibits and educational activities that kids love.
4. Where can I go whale watching in Santa Barbara?
You can take a whale-watching tour from the Santa Barbara harbor, with several companies offering family-friendly boat rides to spot marine life.
5. Is there a playground for young kids in Santa Barbara?
Kids World at Alameda Park is a great option, offering a unique and fun playground with climbing structures and themed play areas.
