7 Unique Things to Do in Santa Barbara: Coastal Charm in the American Riviera

Looking for unforgettable and unique things to do in Santa Barbara? This charming coastal city blends Spanish style architecture, ocean views, and hidden treasures that go beyond the typical tourist trail. Whether you’re into nature, history, or local culture, Santa Barbara has a surprise waiting around every corner.

Key Takeaways

• Santa Barbara offers diverse activities combining historical landmarks with authentic cultural immersion
• The best unique things to do in Santa Barbara include both famous attractions and off-the-beaten-path experiences
• Activities range from free outdoor adventures to premium culinary experiences with options for every budget
• Most attractions are accessible via Santa Barbara’s walkable downtown or convenient shuttle services
• The 7 unique things to do in Santa Barbara can be enjoyed year-round, though summer offers ideal beach weather while fall provides perfect wine-tasting conditions

7 Unique Things to Do in Santa Barbara

1. Explore the Urban Wine Trail

When discovering unique things to do in Santa Barbara, the Urban Wine Trail stands out as the perfect introduction to the region’s flourishing wine culture. This remarkable collection of tasting rooms doesn’t just offer exceptional wines—it brings the Santa Ynez Valley vineyards directly into walkable downtown neighborhoods, creating an experience that seamlessly blends urban exploration with wine country indulgence.

The magic happens as you stroll between converted warehouses in the Funk Zone, historic buildings in downtown, and waterfront venues near Stearns Wharf, sampling distinctive local varieties like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah. Each tasting room tells a different story about the region’s terroir and winemaking philosophy, revealing why Santa Barbara County has emerged as one of California’s most exciting wine destinations.

Useful Information:

• Cost: $15-25 per tasting flight; $300-500 for guided tours including transportation
• Hours: Most tasting rooms operate daily from approximately 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Duration: Self-guided explorations (3-4 hours); Full guided tours (6-8 hours)
• Notable Venues: Municipal Winemakers, Santa Barbara Winery, Deep Sea Tasting Room, Grassini Family Vineyards

Extra Tips: Create your own themed route focusing on specific varietals for the most educational experience. Many tasting rooms offer cheese and charcuterie pairings that enhance the flavors. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated between tastings. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid crowds and receive more personalized attention from knowledgeable staff.

2. Kayak Through Sea Caves at Channel Islands

Among the unique things to do in Santa Barbara, few connect you more deeply to the region’s natural wonders than kayaking through the sea caves of Channel Islands National Park. These dramatic coastal formations offer visitors an immersive journey that showcases the raw beauty of California’s protected marine environments.

The experience typically unfolds with a scenic boat ride to Santa Cruz Island, followed by guided kayaking along rugged coastlines, exploring hidden grottos and caves accessible only by water. As you paddle through emerald waters, you might encounter harbor seals, sea lions, and an abundance of seabirds in their natural habitat. The islands’ isolation has created unique ecosystems often compared to the Galapagos, providing a wilderness adventure just hours from downtown Santa Barbara.

Useful Information:

• Cost: $150-250 for guided kayak tours including boat transportation
• Hours: Tours depart mornings, typically between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM
• Duration: Allow 8-10 hours for the full experience (including transportation)
• Top Operators: Santa Barbara Adventure Company, Channel Islands Outfitters

Extra Tips: Book well in advance during summer months when tours fill quickly. Wear quick-drying clothes and bring sun protection—the ocean reflection intensifies sun exposure. No experience is necessary for guided tours, but basic swimming ability is recommended. Camera equipment should be waterproof or protected in dry bags.

3. Discover the Hidden Courtyards of El Paseo

While most tourists stick to State Street, exploring Santa Barbara’s hidden paseos and courtyards reveals a more authentic slice of Spanish Colonial charm, making it one of the most rewarding unique things to do in Santa Barbara. The historic El Paseo complex offers a refreshing escape from tourist crowds with its secret gardens, traditional architecture, and relaxed atmosphere.

The heart of the experience lies in wandering through interconnected courtyards filled with bubbling fountains, colorful tiles, and fragrant flowers. Originally built in the 1920s as the nation’s first shopping center designed in the Spanish-Colonial style, these hidden spaces now house independent boutiques, art galleries, and intimate restaurants that showcase Santa Barbara’s cultural heritage in a setting that feels transported from Andalusia.

Useful Information:

• Cost: Free to explore; shopping and dining at various price points
• Hours: Most shops open 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; restaurants until later
• Getting There: Located between State Street and Anacapa Street in downtown
• Key Areas: El Paseo Restaurant courtyard, De La Guerra Plaza, Casa de la Guerra

Extra Tips: Visit Thursday evenings when the nearby Farmers Market brings extra energy to the area. Look for historical plaques explaining the significance of various buildings. The courtyards provide welcome shade during hot afternoons. For the best experience, let yourself explore without a strict agenda—unexpected passages often lead to the most charming discoveries.

4. Attend a Performance at the Historic Lobero Theatre

Experiencing a show at the historic Lobero Theatre offers a window into Santa Barbara’s cultural life and ranks among the most enriching unique things to do in Santa Barbara. As California’s oldest continuously operating theater (founded 1873), the Lobero provides an intimate venue where visitors can enjoy performances ranging from jazz concerts to classical recitals in a building that itself tells the story of Santa Barbara’s artistic heritage.

The theater’s Spanish Colonial Revival architecture (redesigned in 1924) creates a uniquely Californian atmosphere with its red-tiled roof, white stucco walls, and ornate interior detailing. The excellent acoustics and limited seating (just under 700 capacity) ensure there’s not a bad seat in the house, allowing close connection to world-class performances in a historic setting that has hosted legends like Igor Stravinsky and Dizzy Gillespie.

Useful Information:

• Cost: $25-75 depending on performance and seating
• Schedule: Year-round calendar featuring approximately 150 performances annually
• Duration: Most performances run 1.5-2.5 hours
• Location: 33 East Canon Perdido Street in downtown Santa Barbara

Extra Tips: Check the schedule well in advance as many performances sell out. Arrive early to enjoy the Spanish courtyard entrance with its fountain and historical displays. The theater is walking distance from many downtown restaurants, perfect for pre-show dining. Dress tends toward California casual, even for classical performances.

5. Tour the Underground Speakeasy Tunnels

Beneath Santa Barbara’s pristine streets lies a hidden history that counts among the most intriguing unique things to do in Santa Barbara. During Prohibition, a network of tunnels connected various establishments, allowing illicit drinking to continue away from authorities’ watchful eyes. Today, specialized historical tours reveal this underground world that contrasts dramatically with the city’s sun-soaked image.

While many original tunnels have been sealed for safety, several locations provide access to these forgotten spaces. The Santa Barbara Presidio area features sections of accessible passages, while certain downtown businesses like the El Paseo Restaurant incorporate preserved tunnel sections into their architecture. These subterranean explorations teleport visitors back to the Roaring Twenties when Santa Barbara harbored a lively speakeasy culture beneath its law-abiding surface.

Useful Information:

• Cost: $25-45 for guided historical tours
• Hours: Tours typically offered weekends or by appointment
• Duration: 1-2 hours per tour
• Notable Access Points: El Paseo Restaurant basement, certain downtown wine cellars

Extra Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as tunnels may have uneven surfaces. Some spaces may be tight or dark, so consider claustrophobia concerns. Photography is often permitted but check with your guide. Several tour companies combine tunnel visits with ghost stories and local legends for added entertainment value.

6. Experience the Summer Solstice Parade

Santa Barbara’s Summer Solstice Celebration has evolved from a small street performance in 1974 to one of California’s largest arts events, offering visitors a colorful, creative spectacle that should feature among the unique things to do in Santa Barbara. This vibrant parade showcases giant puppets, elaborate costumes, dance troupes, and creative floats expressing a different theme each year.

Unlike traditional parades, Summer Solstice emphasizes artistic expression and community participation over commercial sponsorship. The joyful procession moves down State Street to Alameda Park, where a three-day festival continues with live music, performance art, craft vendors, and food stalls. The celebration typically attracts over 100,000 spectators who line the parade route, creating a carnival atmosphere throughout downtown.

Useful Information:

• Cost: Free to watch; festival entry by suggested donation ($10)
• Dates: Nearest weekend to the actual solstice (around June 21)
• Parade Route: From Cota Street along State Street to Alameda Park
• Duration: Parade lasts approximately 2 hours; festival runs Friday through Sunday

Extra Tips: Arrive early to secure viewing spots along State Street. Bring portable chairs and sun protection for comfortable viewing. Parking fills quickly, so consider using public transportation or parking several blocks away. The festival continues after the parade with family-friendly activities during the day and more adult-oriented music performances in evenings.

7. Visit the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Beyond the famous Mission and beaches, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden offers a uniquely Californian natural experience, earning its place among the most enriching unique things to do in Santa Barbara. This 78-acre living museum showcases the extraordinary diversity of California’s native plants in thoughtfully designed landscapes that range from redwood groves to desert cactus gardens.

The garden’s meadow section provides stunning mountain-to-ocean views, while the historic Mission Dam (built 1807) connects visitors to the region’s colonial past. Five miles of walking paths lead through different ecological zones, demonstrating sustainable landscaping practices applicable to home gardens. Unlike typical botanical gardens, the emphasis here is on California’s native species and their adaptation to local conditions—particularly valuable as water conservation becomes increasingly important.

Useful Information:

• Cost: $14 adult admission; $10 for seniors and students
• Hours: Open daily 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (summer); 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (winter)
• Notable Areas: Redwood section, Meadow, Channel Islands garden, Desert section
• Getting There: Located in Mission Canyon, approximately 10 minutes from downtown

Extra Tips: The garden changes dramatically with seasons—spring brings wildflower displays, while fall features golden grasses and autumn colors. Early mornings offer the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures for comfortable walking. Docent-led tours provide deeper insights into plant adaptations and ecological relationships. The garden shop offers unique native plants that make sustainable souvenirs.

FAQ

Is Santa Barbara expensive for tourists?

Santa Barbara tends toward the premium end of California destinations. Budget travelers can manage on $100-150 daily (plus accommodation), while mid-range experiences might cost $200-300 per day. Luxury experiences are readily available but come with corresponding price tags. Accommodations particularly command premium rates, especially during summer and special events.

How many days should I spend in Santa Barbara?

A minimum of 2-3 days is recommended to experience the highlights of Santa Barbara, including these unique activities. However, 4-5 days would allow for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to incorporate day trips to nearby wine country or Channel Islands National Park. The city’s relaxed atmosphere encourages a slower exploration style.

What’s the best time to visit Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara enjoys pleasant weather year-round, but September and October offer ideal conditions with warm days, cool evenings, and fewer tourists after the summer rush. Spring (April-May) brings beautiful flowering gardens and comfortable temperatures. Winter months can be slightly rainy but remain mild, while summer sees peak crowds and higher prices.

How do I get around in Santa Barbara without a car?

Santa Barbara is surprisingly navigable without a car. The downtown area is highly walkable, and the waterfront shuttle costs just 50 cents per ride along the main tourist corridor. The MTD bus system serves broader areas effectively. Bicycle rentals provide an excellent transportation option, with dedicated lanes throughout the city. Rideshare services operate efficiently for destinations beyond walking distance.

Is Santa Barbara good for families with children?

Santa Barbara offers numerous family-friendly activities beyond these unique experiences. The MOXI Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation provides interactive science exhibits, while the Santa Barbara Zoo is small but well-designed for younger visitors. Beaches offer safe swimming areas with lifeguards, and most restaurants accommodate children comfortably. The weather and outdoor orientation of many activities make it particularly suitable for families.