31 Awesome Day Trips From Santa Barbara

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Imagine staying in one of the most beautiful places on Earth, with all the possibilities for adventure and excitement right in your backyard. After living in Santa Barbara for four years during college, I can confirm that there’s an endless amount of incredible things to do just around the city! No matter what you’re into, there’s sure to be a close-by destination that will satisfy your wanderlust as you take some incredible day trips from Santa Barbara.

Just a short drive away in either direction from Santa Barbara is an amazing world waiting to be explored. With so many different activities and landscapes to enjoy, it can be tough to choose which day trips are right for you. Whether you’re looking for a nature-filled adventure, adorable small towns along the Pacific Coast Highway, want to visit some famous historical landmarks, or crave some serious retail therapy, here are my top picks for the best day trips from Santa Barbara.

Jump to…
• Best Day Trip From Santa Barbara
• Day Trips From Santa Barbara With Kids
• Best Winery Day Trips From Santa Barbara
• Day Trips to the North
• Day Trips to the South
• Quick Day Trips From Santa Barbara
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• Where Can I Rent a Car in Santa Barbara? + FAQs

 

Places to Visit Near Santa Barbara

There are many incredible places to visit that are within a day trip distance from Santa Barbara, including fantastic cities, incredible wineries, and gorgeous nature.

From the quaint Danish town of Solvang to Los Angeles, you will have your fill of fun cities and towns to visit. The Los Padres Forest, dramatic beaches and coastline, and the Santa Ynez Valley provide a beautiful backdrop for exploring around Santa Barbara.

Best Day Trip From Santa Barbara

1. Channel Islands Boat Excursion

The Channel Islands are a beautiful day-trip destination from Santa Barbara, and arguably the absolute best (and most unique) place to visit in a day from Santa Barbara. From spring through fall, the weather is perfect for island-hopping and enjoying the outdoor activities the islands have to offer.

Each island has its own unique ecosystem that is fascinating to explore, and its enjoyable to be out in the channel waters on a nice sunny day. Hiking, camping, kayaking, fishing, scuba diving, and bird watching are just a few of the activities that you can enjoy. The Channel Islands National Park is also home to some of the world’s rarest plants and animals, making them a haven for nature lovers.

2. Santa Cruz Island

If you want to spend some time exploring just one of the islands, the best is Santa Cruz Island. Santa Cruz Island is a nature lover’s paradise. With 60 animal and plant species, it’s the most bio-diverse of all the Channel Islands.

The island is a world-class kayaking destination! Or, you can spend the day exploring the sea caves (including the Painted Cave, one of the largest sea caves in the world) and hiking around the island. Cool off by snorkeling in the kelp forests at Scorpion Anchorage and swimming in the gorgeous water.

To learn more about each island and how to join a tour, click here!

Day Trips From Santa Barbara With Kids

3. Casitas Water Adventure

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: About one hour to the north

This small water park has a playground for young children, a lazy river inner-tube ride, and a snack bar. It’s the perfect quick activity with kids on a hot summer day. Check the schedule for their updated events, over the summers they show movies, occasionally have adult water aerobics, or host other special events.

4. The Ravine Water Park

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 2 to 2.5 hours to the south

The Ravine Water Park is a bit bigger with more to do, but a bit further away from Santa Barbara. It’s a family-friendly water park with a wave pool, winding river, and a variety of fun waterslides. Plus it has a mini-golf course, events area, and private cabana rentals. Enjoy an exciting day at this fun waterpark with the kids!

5. Six Flags Magic Mountain

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 2 to 2.5 hours to the south

There’s nothing like a day at Six Flags Magic Mountain. From the moment you walk through the gates, you’re transported to a world of thrills, laughs, and excitement. It’s probably one of the best amusement parks in California for thrill-seekers!

With more than 100 rides and attractions, there’s something for everyone. From exciting roller coasters to family-friendly rides, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Plus, with live entertainment, shows, and parades throughout the day, there’s always something to see and do.

Six Flags is a bit better for older kids, however, there are still a handful of kids’ rides as well. So whether you’re a thrill seeker or just looking for a fun-filled day out, Six Flags Magic Mountain is the place to be.

6. Disneyland and California Adventure Park

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 3 hours to 3.5 hours

The drive to Disneyland in Anaheim is a bit of a stretch as a day trip from Santa Barbara and it would be best to spend at least one night in Orange County to have a more relaxed trip. However, if you have limited time and Disneyland is high on your bucket list – you’ll be happy to know it’s possible!

Disneyland in California is a magical place! From the moment you step through the gates, you are transported to a world of magic and wonder. The sights and sounds of the park can’t be missed and whether you are enjoying a ride on one of the iconic roller coasters (great for kids and adults alike!) or watching a parade, there is something for everyone at Disneyland.

Of course, no visit to the park would be complete without meeting some of your favorite Disney characters and princesses. Enjoy the recently opened Star Wars Land that transports you into the beloved movie franchise! Or spend all day on the beloved rides such as Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion, Splash Mountain, or the Indiana Jones ride.

Plus, right next door is Disney’s California Adventure Park which is full of fun new rides and exciting experiences from the Incredicoaster to Avengers Campus and more. Spend some time shopping and dining in Downtown Disney to complete your exciting day trip from Santa Barbara.

✨ P.S. need help planning your trip to California? ✨
I’ve lived there my whole life and offer personalized travel consultations. 

Simply send an email to janelle@makethetripmatter.com with the information you’re looking for and where you’re at in your trip-planning process.

👉 Or, click here to learn more.

7. Franklin Hot Springs

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 2 to 2.5 hours to the south

These Paso Robles hot springs feature medicinal waters with healing mineral content that may increase metabolism, accelerate healing, soothe muscles, and more. It’s kid-friendly and has additional activities of fishing and boating to keep the family entertained with a unique day trip from Santa Barbara!

Best Winery Day Trips From Santa Barbara

8. Best Wineries According to the Season – Day Trip From Santa Barbara

If you aren’t picky on WHERE exactly you go, I recommend letting the experts pick the best wineries for the season that you are staying in Santa Barbara. The perfect way to enjoy California’s year-round gorgeous weather is by taking advantage of a picnic afternoon and four different vineyards.

With this highly rated winery day tour, you will see the wine-making process up close with behind-the-scene explanations from each winemaker who will guide you through their individual styles. Enjoy the incredible views and picturesque scenery throughout California’s wine country.

The pricing is fantastic as well when considering it includes transportation from Santa Barbara to each of the wineries, the wine tasting, lunch, and an informative tour guide.

There is a private tour option, however, this is really only a better choice if you are a couple that wants a private experience or a group that is bigger than 6 people. Otherwise, the group tour can be booked for up to 6 people and is more affordable.

For more information, pricing, and availability… CLICK BELOW:
👉 Group Tour
👉 Private Tour

9. Santa Ynez Wineries

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 40 minutes to 1 hour

For a great place to enjoy fantastic local wines, head over to the Santa Ynez Valley. The climate here is perfect and produces some of America’s best wines, especially Pinot Noir (particularly suited to this area). There are many different wine tasting rooms and beautiful wineries with views of the Santa Ynez mountains that offer expert advice on the production of wine and what type of wine to try while visiting California’s wine region.

The top 3 Santa Ynez Valley wineries:

• Bridlewood Estate Winery
• Sunstone Vineyards and Winery
• Rusack Winery

Or, take in more of the scenery and enjoy Santa Ynez by bike. This tour that departs from Santa Barbara includes an E-bike or Specialized Sportbike tour to a winery and other spots for wine tastings, an olive-oil tasting, and an Italian-inspired picnic lunch.

➡️ CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION + AVAILABILITY

10. Paso Robles Wineries and Vineyards

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: about 2 hours

The central coast is becoming a key player in California’s winery scene and Paso Robles is at the forefront, producing top-rated, highly acclaimed wines. There’s a more rural, laid-back feel here compared to other wine regions in California and the Paso Robles wineries are fantastic.

Paso Robles offers a great variety of wines to choose from, and the tasting room staff are always happy to chat about the wines and give you recommendations. So whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just getting started on your vino journey, Paso Robles should be high on your list of day trip destinations from Santa Barbara for the best wineries!

The top 3 Paso Robles Wineries:

• Eberle Winery
• Villa Creek Cellars
• DAOU Vineyards

There are a plethora of different tours and ways to explore the Paso Robles wine region, if you are looking for something more exciting that you don’t have to plan yourself. For the top-rated, most interesting tours of the region, check out one of these:

👉 “Hop-On Hop-Off” Wine Tasting Tour – Go at your own pace without having to worry about transportation. Pick four or five wineries (of the over 60 options) and enjoy a 5-hour tasting tour of Paso Robles.

👉 Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour – An all-inclusive tour that includes seeing the wine-making process, enjoying a delicious picnic lunch, and tasting a full flight of wines offered at four different locations.

👉 Private SIDECAR Winery Tour – Probably the most fun way to explore the gorgeous vineyards! Take a ride through the scenery in a motorcycle sidecar that accommodates two passengers. Enjoy your wine tastings and explore this beautiful wine region in a more intimate way.

Day Trips From Santa Barbara to the North

11. Solvang

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Solvang is a charming Danish village located in the Santa Ynez Valley, just north of Santa Barbara. The town was founded in 1911 by a group of Danish-Americans who were looking for a place to practice their traditional culture and heritage.

Today, Solvang is a popular tourist destination and day trip from Santa Barbara, known for its quaint shops and bakeries, windmills, and annual festivals. Visitors can stroll through the streets of Solvang and enjoy the friendly atmosphere and old-world charm. There are also plenty of opportunities to taste delicious Danish food and pastries.

Stop by OstrichLand USA to feed the birds and pick up some fresh eggs. Or, get to know more of the history of Solvang with a guided pedicab tour of the city with a wine tasting where you will learn about Danish and Viking History, explore the Spanish Mission, learn about Hans Christen Andersen, view the Little Mermaid Statue, and receive suggestions for Solvang’s best restaurants, museums, and shopping.

➡️ CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TOUR OF SOLVANG + WINE TASTING

12. San Luis Obispo (and Avila Beach)

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: about 1 hour and 45 minutes

Sal Luis Obispo is a beautiful coastal town in California. Visitors can spend the day relaxing on Avila Beach, exploring the historic mission, or noshing on delicious food from one of the many restaurants.

While there’s plenty to do in Sal Luis Obispo, one of the best things to do is simply sit back and enjoy the stunning natural scenery. With its gentle waves and sandy shores, Avila Beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Enjoy the oceanfront restaurants, shopping, and activities ranging from fishing to golfing and local events.

Visit Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa 1772 to see a glimpse into the town’s rich history. The popular Farmers’ Market is a weekly event on Higuera Street that always draws crowds. Or, take one of the affordable tours of SLO to fill up your day and learn more about the town.

These are the top tours in San Luis Obispo:

👉 Ghost and True Crime Walking Tour After Dark
👉 Delicious Downtown Food and Wine Tasting Tour
👉 Self-Guided Audio Tour

13. Pismo Beach

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: about 1.5 hours

Pismo Beach is a beautiful coastal town in California known for its wineries and the Monarch Butterfly Grove (they migrate in the cooler months). The sandy beaches and gentle waves make it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

There are also several restaurants and cafes along the beach, as well as a boardwalk with shops and games and the iconic Pismo Beach Pier that stretches out 1,370 feet over the Pacific Ocean.

Take a walk in the Dinosaur Caves Park which consists of a grassy lawn, playground, and walking trails in an 11-acre park situated on top of the oceanfront bluffs. Visitors can also enjoy the views of the nearby hills and mountains as well.

In the evening, the town comes alive with music and dancing. Pismo Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the California coast.

>>> RELATED POST: Top 20 California Winter Beaches

14. Morro Bay

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: about 2 hours

Characterized by the dramatic Morro Bay Rock (formed by magma), the town is situated on a bay, which provides stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

Visitors can enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the area, as well as golf courses and tennis courts. In addition, Morro Bay is home to a number of restaurants and cafes, offering a variety of cuisines.

One of the best ways to spend a day in Morro Bay is to rent an electric bike and cruise around the town and ride for several miles on the hard-packed sand of Morro Strand State Beach. It’s possible to take a guided E-bike tour if you want to learn more about the area as you go, or save some money by just renting the bikes and exploring on your own.

👉 Reserve your guided e-bike tour HERE
👉 Just the E-bike rental

15. Figueroa Mountain Day Trip From Santa Barbara

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 1 to 2 hours (depending where in the mountains)

The Figueroa Mountains are a great place to explore and enjoy a day in nature. The vegetation is lush and the wildlife is diverse with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as scenic picnic areas and lookout points that are great for wildlife viewing.

Springtime is a season of fantastic flower displays and summertime is great to visit the cool waters of Davy Brown Creek and Manzana Creek, a fun place to swim or fish. The fall is the best time to camp and enjoy mild weather with the fewest visitors.

Find out more about the best things to do and what trails you can explore HERE.

16. Cachuma Lake

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 30 to 45 minutes

Enjoy the beauty of Lake Cachuma, located within the Los Padres National Forest, this gorgeous lake is perfect for a day out with the whole family. You can explore the children’s playgrounds and nature center (admission is free), and don’t forget to take a cruise to see the Eagles and other wildlife up close! The two-hour cruises are aboard a comfortable 30-passenger pontoon, and it’s the best way to see all the animals in their natural habitat.

Lake Cachuma is also one of Southern California’s best fishing lakes and there are year-round nature walks. In the winter, see the migratory Bald Eagles, and in the spring and summer view the wildflowers and nesting birds.

17. Lompoc Flower Fields

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: about 1 hour

The hilltops around Santa Barbara come alive with color in the springtime, thanks to the California poppy. This vibrant flower is the state flower of California, and it grows abundantly in the hills west of Lompoc.

The poppy is not the only flower that graces the hillsides; blue bell and morning glory can also be found in abundance. While spring and summer is the best time to see wildflowers in bloom, there are also many commercial fields in Lompoc that provide a year-round display of color.

Lompoc’s flowers are a must-see day trip for any nature lover. The best way to see them is to take a DIY driving tour. Start on Central Ave. and Floradale Ave. and loop your way up and down the streets of flower fields until you hit Union Sugar Ave.

🌸 Keep an eye on their Bloom Tracker to see what flowers are currently in bloom! 🌸

18. Hearst Castle

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: about 2.5 hours

If you’re looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience, Hearst Castle is definitely worth a visit and one of the best day trips. This historic estate, which was once home to publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst, is now a State Historic Park open to the public.

Visitors can explore the vast grounds, which include gardens, terraces, pools, and walkways, or take a tour of the opulent main house and its many rooms. Hearst Castle is also home to an impressive art collection, making it a perfect destination for art lovers. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply want to enjoy a beautiful setting, Hearst Castle is one of the top day trips from Santa Barbara.

✨ P.S. need help planning your trip to California? ✨
I’ve lived there my whole life and offer personalized travel consultations. 

Simply send an email to janelle@makethetripmatter.com with the information you’re looking for and where you’re at in your trip-planning process.

👉 Or, click here to learn more.

Day Trips From Santa Barbara to the South

19. Ojai

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: about 1 hour

Ojai is a beautiful city located in a valley in the Topatopa Mountains and is the perfect Santa Barbara day trip. The city has a village-like center with art galleries and quirky New Age shops. Ojai is also home to many beautiful hiking trails with spectacular views that are great for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is a great place to visit and explore for the day with its beauty and its many amenities.

20. Ventura

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 30 to 45 minutes

Ventura is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a smaller and less crowded alternative to Santa Barbara. Ventura has some great coffee shops, fun bars on the downtown strip, and a lively art scene. The Ventura Pier and Promenade are also definitely worth checking out and serve some delicious fresh seafood.

There are some excellent surf spots in Ventura as well, including C Street near the Ventura Fairgrounds. If you’re looking for something to do for a day, Ventura is a great option!

21. Carpinteria

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 15 to 30 minutes

I ADORE Carpinteria! It’s a pretty small town very close to the south of Santa Barbara, but worth a day’s visit. The beaches here are almost nicer (and less crowded) than those in Santa Barbara. Head to Carpenteria State Beach for campsite and picnic areas to relax and enjoy the sun.

Take a walk down Linden Avenue for the unique shopping experience it offers. In addition to the standard array of stores, there are also many vintage and antique shops. Many of the shops on Linden Avenue are family-owned businesses that have been passed down through generations. As a result, they have a wealth of knowledge about the products they sell and are always happy to help customers find what they’re looking for.

Stop at the Lucky Llama for a cup of excellent coffee. And have you ever been to a “meadery”? Well, stop by the Apiary in Carpenteria for a unique evening of trying meads and ciders crafted with local fresh ingredients!

22. Rincon Beach

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 20 to 30 minutes

Also not very far from Santa Barbara, Rincon is a surfer’s paradise! One of the best (and most famous) surf spots in the area (also known as the “Queen of the Coast”) Rincon frequently serves up well-formed waves and long rides. Enjoy watching the surfers, walking along the beautiful coast, and exploring the tidepools and rocks.

If you want to take a surf lesson, head just a bit further south to Mondo’s Beach where surf lessons are offered for all levels, beginner to expert.

For beginner surfers, I VERY strongly recommend taking a surf lesson. It can be difficult to learn surfing, especially on your own, and you will greatly speed up your learning curve and have A LOT more fun if you take a lesson (or a couple) right off the bat.

Even as an intermediate surfer, I take a lesson every time I go to a new spot because it’s best to hear from a local expert surfer who can cover basic surf etiquette, tide, and wave dynamics of the area, plus safety and surf technique for new surfers. Additionally, surf lessons include the rental of your equipment for convenience.

➡️ CLICK HERE FOR SURF LESSON INFO + AVAILABILITY

23. Oxnard

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 45 minutes to 1 hour

For a day of fun and excitement not far from Santa Barbara, head to Oxnard. This bustling city is home to a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

You can start your day at the Carnegie Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of contemporary California art. Then head over to Heritage Square to check out some of the beautiful early-1900s homes that dot the area.

If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or SUP and explore the Ventura River. Eat at one of the best taquerias in the state. And when night falls, hit up one of the city’s many bars or clubs for some electric nightlife.

24. Malibu

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 1 hour 20 to 1 hour 45 minutes

There’s no doubt about it: a day in Malibu is a special treat. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the local shops and restaurants, or take in the stunning views, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque town.

Malibu has some gorgeous scenery, and one of the best things to do is take a hike along one of the many trails that wind through the area. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you meander through the landscape; you might just spot some deer or even a coyote or two. When you’re ready for a break, head into town and treat yourself to lunch at one of the local cafes.

25. Los Angeles and Hollywood

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (very traffic dependent)

If you’re using Santa Barbara as a base for exploring some of southern California, you of course will have to make it out to Los Angeles and Hollywood! The drive can be a bit of a haul, but if you time it right (leave early in the morning and avoid rush hour traffic) it’s totally possible to do it in one day.

Of course, there’s plenty to do in this sprawling city, but some of the top things to do include…

Visit the Hollywood Sign: No trip to Hollywood would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Hollywood Sign. You can get up close to the iconic landmark by hiking one of the trails in Griffith Park.

Take a Tour of Grauman’s Chinese Theatre: Grauman’s Chinese Theatre is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hollywood. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of this historic movie palace and see some of the famous handprints and footprints in the concrete forecourt.

Explore Hollywood Boulevard: Hollywood Blvd. is one of the most famous streets in the world. Start at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and walk down the Boulevard, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant street where you will see the Walk of Fame with the stars of your favorite celebrities.

Take a Tour of the Warner Brothers Studio: Backlot tours are a great way to see how movies are really made. You’ll get to explore the sets and sound stages, and see how the magic of green-screen technology brings your favorite scenes to life. This is the best studio tour (in my opinion), especially if you are a fan of Friends, Harry Potter, or the DC Universe.

⭐ Or, take a day tour that includes ALL of the top sites in Los Angeles from Beverly Hills to Hollywood and beyond.

26. Santa Monica and Venice

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 2 hours to 2.5 hours

Venice and Santa Monica Beaches are two of the most popular beaches in Los Angeles. They are also two of the busiest beaches, so it’s important to leave Santa Barbara early and plan your day carefully if you want to make the most of your time.

Venice Beach is known for its canals, unique shops, muscle beach, and quirky street entertainers. Santa Monica beach is known for its world-famous pier, which has an amusement park, restaurants, and shops.

Start your day at Venice Beach. Take a walk down the boardwalk and check out the Muscle Beach weightlifting area. Stop by one of the many unique shops along the way and enjoy the people-watching. If you get hungry, there are plenty of food options available, including street vendors selling food from all over the world.

After lunch, wander up the strand (the path that runs along the beach from Palos Verdes Peninsula up to Malibu) to Santa Monica beach and visit the world-famous Santa Monica Pier. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel or go on some of the other rides at the amusement park, stroll down to the end of the pier and enjoy the view.

👉 If you prefer to bike along the beach instead of walking, consider this Venice and Santa Monica bike tour.

27. South Bay Los Angeles

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 2.5 hours to 3 hours

If you’re looking for a unique spot to explore pristine southern California beaches, delicious restaurants, and some of the best activities – check out one of the many things to do in South Bay, Los Angeles! As someone who was born and raised in the South Bay (Torrance), I had to mention it as a day trip option from Santa Barbara. Even though it’s a bit far, it’s a hidden gem of southern California.

Whether you’re looking for a day of shopping, a day at the beach, or a day of exploring, you’ll find plenty to do. Shop til you drop at one of the many malls and outlets in the area, including Del Amo Fashion Center (one of the 10 biggest malls in America) and the Redondo Beach Riviera (for boutique shopping).

Head to the beach for a day of sun, sand, volleyball, and surfing. Hermosa Beach (best for bar hopping and events) and Manhattan Beach (best for fine dining and upscale shops) are both great options. Or, go for a hike on the Palos Verdes Peninsula for scenic ocean views and tide-pooling at the base of the hill.

Quick Day Trips From Santa Barbara

28. Gaviota

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: 30 to 45 minutes

One of the best areas to explore nearby Santa Barbara is Gaviota State Park. The park is home to a variety of attractions, including the Gaviota Hot Springs, the Gaviota Wind Caves, and Gaviota State Beach. Each one offers a different experience, so you can choose what’s right for you.

The hot springs are a great place to relax and unwind (after about a mile hike into them), while the wind caves are perfect for those who want to explore and adventure (a unique area to hike and explore). And if you’re looking for breathtaking views, be sure to stop at Arroyo Honda Vista Point on the state beach.

29. Lizard’s Mouth

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: about 30 minutes

There’s something special about hiking and bouldering at Lizards Mouth. Maybe it’s the cliffs that seem to go on forever or the way the sun magically lights up the rocks as you scramble up them. Whatever it is, there’s no doubt that this is one of the most beautiful places to spend a day in Santa Barbara.

The area is called Lizards Mouth for one specific rock that looks like a lizard from far away. The whole area is comprised of rocks and it can be fun to take a picnic lunch and spend a day exploring and bouldering. It’s a popular area to set up some small climbs as well.

30. Red Rock Pools

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: about 1 hour

Red Rock is a beautiful swimming hole located just a short hike from the trailhead. The round trip hike is only about 2 miles, but you will need to cross a creek. However, the effort is well worth it when you reach the deep pool at the base of the red rocks.

This is an excellent spot for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day in a beautiful area. When the water level is high, you can also take advantage of the cliffs and jump into the pool below. Just be sure to take care when climbing on the rocks, as they can be slippery. Red Rock is a great destination for a short day hike, and it offers something for everyone to enjoy.

31. Nojoqui Falls Park

Drive Time From Santa Barbara: about 45 minutes

Nojoqui Falls is one of the most beautiful and secluded waterfalls in all of California. This 80-foot-high waterfall is surrounded by a wooded canyon and park, making it the perfect spot for a picnic or BBQ. There are also plenty of hiking trails nearby, so you can explore the area and really take in the beauty of nature. If you’re lucky, you might even see some wildlife!

👉 Check out this E-bike tour through the Nojoqui Falls Park that includes a stop at the Folded Hills Tasting Room & Vineyard to enjoy a wine flight alongside an exquisite lunch.

 

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Where Can I Rent a Car in Santa Barbara?

Once you’re in Santa Barbara, you’ll definitely want to rent a car to get around and explore all that the area has to offer. To reach all of these incredible day trips, you will need a car so you can come and go as you please without having to rely on public transportation.

The company I always use to rent cars while traveling is DiscoverCars. They compare prices and information across the leading car rental companies to find you the BEST deals at the most AFFORDABLE rates.

Just be sure to book your rental car in advance so you can get the best offer!

 

Santa Barbara Road Trips

Santa Barbara is a great central location to explore both northern and southern California and take a road trip along the coast. In just a few hours from Santa Barbara, you can find yourself in some of California’s most iconic destinations.

For a taste of the old west, head southeast to Joshua Tree National Park. This desert oasis is home to giant boulder formations and centuries-old Joshua trees. You can drive through Los Angeles on the way and can keep going south to hit Palm Springs and eventually San Diego.

Or, take a drive north along the coast to Big Sur. This dramatic stretch of highway winds along towering cliffs and offers sweeping ocean views. Visitors can also explore redwood forests, waterfalls, and secluded beaches along the way. Further north, you’ll find the vineyards of Napa Valley, the quirky beach town of Santa Cruz, the historic city of San Francisco, and the capital of the state – Sacramento.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there are plenty of road trips you can take from Santa Barbara.

Weekend Getaways From Santa Barbara

For a full weekend getaway from Santa Barbara, combine a few of these locations and top destinations. For example, go north and visit Solvang, Paso Robles, and some of the central California beaches. Or head south to spend time in Ojai and Ventura, or even a weekend getaway to LA.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Santa Barbara?

Spring and fall are the best times to visit Santa Barbara. The weather is mild and there are fewer crowds than in summer. Spring is a particularly good time to visit if you’re interested in wildflowers, as they bloom in abundance throughout the region.

For the warmest weather, fall is a great time to visit Santa Barbara. October and November actually tend to be warmer months, and the ocean water has been warming up all summer.

However, Santa Barbara is also a great place to visit in winter. Although it’s colder than other times of the year, you’ll find fewer crowds and lower prices on hotels and attractions. No matter when you visit, Santa Barbara is sure to offer something special.

Looking for resources to use for your next trip or move abroad?
CLICK HERE for my favorite travel and expat tools!

Even if you’ve lived in Santa Barbara your whole life, there’s always something new to explore. From wine country to beaches, there is so much beautiful nature around Santa Barbara that it’s hard to get to it all! I hope this guide has given you some ideas for fun day trips near Santa Barbara. Have fun adventuring!

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