Santa Barbara

The tide matters if you're heading for the rocks, the tide pools or a long beach walk. Check the Santa Barbara tide chart before you go, and the swell and wind as well if you plan to surf or paddle. Early mornings are quieter for walks and photos. Late afternoon puts low sun on the bluffs and around the wharf.

Santa Barbara sits between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific, with palm-lined beaches and Spanish Colonial Revival buildings. Its coast faces south and stays mild most of the year, so a beach day or a meal outside works in most seasons.

Downtown, climb the clock tower of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse for the view, and stop at the Mission Santa Barbara.

Beaches and waterfront spots:

• East Beach - wide sand and volleyball nets, a short walk from the wharf.
• West Beach - next to the harbor and the bike path.
• Leadbetter Beach - calmer water that beginners like, with Shoreline Park close by for sunset.
• Arroyo Burro (Hendry's) Beach - for beach walks; on some days you can watch the shorebreak.
• Butterfly Beach - palms and evening light in Montecito; go at sunset.
• Goleta Beach Park - just north of town, with a long pier and plenty of room.

Away from the sand, walk the harbor paths around Santa Barbara Harbor, then head inland to State Street and the Funk Zone for galleries and tasting rooms. The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden has native plants and quiet trails, and Shoreline Park runs along the bluff above the beach.

You can rent a bike for the waterfront path, or climb to the Inspiration Point area for a view. In the warmer months, wildlife tours and Channel Islands trips leave from the harbor.