Santa Barbara Area Information for Visitors

Downtown Waterfront District
The heart of the city of Santa Barbara, the waterfront district stretches along East and West Beach. Cabrillo Boulevard offers a pedestrian walkway that allows for easy walking along the coast. From this area you may stroll along the walkway to the pier and harbor area in West Beach to the beach volleyball courts and bird sanctuary of East Beach. State Street, with a multitude of shops, boutiques and restaurants, divides these two scenic areas.

Montecito
This small, upscale beach community maintains all the charms of a quiet community. Coast Village Road runs parallel to the beach and offers a variety of beautiful boutiques, cafés and restaurants. The Upper Village, closer the foothills, also has several lovely shops and restaurants to choose from. Perhaps the most appealing aspect of Montecito are its beautiful beaches, from Butterfly Beach down to Fernald’s Point, beachcombers may enjoy a long leisurely stroll in the sun and a dip in the Pacific Ocean.

The Riviera
Overlooking the city of Santa Barbara, the Riviera is famous for its spectacular views of the city and harbor. Nestled into the hillside above the bustle of the city, this prestigious area offers a quiet respite for those looking for a peaceful, idyllic vacation.

The Mesa
Hugging the bluffs above Santa Barbara beaches lies the Mesa area. This residential neighborhood offers a wonderful walking path along Shoreline Drive, with several access points to various beaches. There are restaurants, cafés, a gourmet grocery store and more along Cliff Drive and Meigs Road. The Mesa is close to the beaches and downtown area but retains a sense of a safe, residential community.