Discover the Santa Barbara Coastline
With so many attractions, it's hard to pinpoint the one that gives Santa Barbara so much sizzle. We think a gorgeous palm-lined beach is a pretty safe bet though. This epic crescent of sand, just a mile from the hotel, has drawn everyone from Conquistadors to kayakers. Now it's your turn. What you'll find is an activity for every budget and interest from watersports and sunset strolls to wine tasting in the Waterfront district. And what State Street is to the rest of the city, the Cabrillo Bikeway is to the beachfront.
If you’re looking for Santa Barbara hotels near the beach, look no further. We’re not on the beach, but we’re so close that you can easily get there on foot or on your Kimpton bicycle, then brake for that perfect stretch of sand or a latte at a beachside café. Here you’ll find a beach for every pursuit from volleyball (East Beach) to people watching (Butterfly Beach). You can also surf, stand-up paddleboard, sail, snorkel, and scuba dive with local operators who will provide instruction and show you the area hotspots. Book your stay near the Santa Barbara beach today.
East Beach
Walking distance: 2.0 miles
A beach volleyball mecca with more than a dozen courts, East Beach is separated from West Beach and the Santa Barbara Harbor by Stearns Wharf. Highlights include a pedestrian and bicycle path, playground, skate park, grass park, East Beach Grill, and Cabrillo Pavilion Bathhouse, which offers showers, lockers, and volleyball rental.
Butterfly Beach
Walking distance: 4.6 miles
One of the few west-facing beaches in the area, Butterfly Beach is a great spot to take in the sunset over the water. A true locals beach (there are no public facilities) located along Channel Drive in Montecito, this mile-long beach is perfect for people watching, sunbathing, swimming, biking, and off-leash pets.
Hendry’s Beach
Walking distance: 3.2 miles
Officially known as Arroyo Burro County Beach, Hendry’s Beach is located on Cliff Drive next to the Boathouse, an upscale seafood restaurant with a popular happy hour. This off-leash pet friendly beach is ideal for surfing, swimming, picnics and nearby equestrian trails. Overlooking the beach with access from Cliff Drive is the 70-acre Douglas Family Preserve which makes for great wildlife viewing, hiking, or even hang-gliding.
