I highly recommend Shoreline Park for the best views of Santa Barbara. This 14-acre bluff-top park has an incredible vantage point overlooking Santa Barbara, with sweeping views of both the city and Pacific Ocean.
There are two parking lots on the bluff for easy access, or a walking path up to the bluff along Shoreline Drive.
Most of the bluff is covered in grass, perfect for playing ball games, or throwing frisbees. I noticed a few family groups in the BBQ area, utilizing the picnic tables while their kids hung out in the playground. The beach can also be reached down a long stairway.
Shoreline Park also allows on-leash dogs.
5 best attractions at Shoreline Park Santa Barbara
1. Explore the half-mile, paved path along the bluff at Shoreline Park.
2. Savor incredible views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and Channel Islands.
3. Take the Shoreline Park stairs down to a tidal beach.
The beach at the base of the stairs is narrow, and only accessible at low tide. Dogs are allowed off-leash on this beach, west of the stairs.
The Japanese Torii Gate marks the entrance to these stairs, and is midway along the park.
4. Walk down to Leadbetter Beach from Shoreline Park.
It's only a 5 minute walk downhill to reach Leadbetter Beach, where you can dine on the sand at the Shoreline Beach Cafe. If you're feeling energetic, follow the waterfront path for 30 minutes all the way to Stearns Wharf.
5. Shoreline Park has a picnic and grilling area, and a lovely playground for kids.
The Tots Playground has swings, slides and a tower to climb on, and an oversized turtle and dolphin. Best of all there's an extended seating area for parents. It's at the west end of Shoreline Park.
The picnic tables are midway along the park, next to the Torii Gate with stairs that lead to the beach.
Know before you go
- Parking: Two parking lots along Shoreline Drive.
- Restrooms: two restrooms
- Playground: yes.
- Picnic tables: yes.
- Dogs: Allowed on-leash at the park.
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