Looking for the best family friendly things to do in Santa Barbara? This stunning coastal city, known as the “American Riviera,” blends ocean views, outdoor adventures, and cultural gems perfect for families. But where can you find the top spots that keep both kids and adults entertained?
In this blog, you’ll uncover the most popular family activities in Santa Barbara—from exploring the Santa Barbara Zoo and the MOXI Museum to kayaking along the coast and strolling Stearns Wharf. Whether your family loves nature, art, or seaside fun, Santa Barbara offers endless ways to create lasting memories together.
But that’s just the beginning! As family travel expert Colleen Lanin says, “Santa Barbara area combines relaxation and discovery like no other California destination.” So, pack your sunscreen and curiosity—let’s dive into the must-visit family attractions that make Santa Barbara truly unforgettable!
The 10 Best Family Friendly Things to Do in Santa Barbara
To get you started, here’s an overview of the top 10 family-friendly activities in Santa Barbara. We’ll dig into Family Things to Do in Santa Barbara for a great family vacation:
- The Santa Barbara Zoo
- Walk Along Stearns Wharf
- Play at Alameda Park (Kids’ World)
- Downtown Santa Barbara (State Street + Paseos)
- Santa Ynez Mountains (easy hikes + viewpoints)
- Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
- Santa Barbara Harbor & Sea Center on Stearns Wharf
- Explore exhibits at the MOXI Museum
- Sunrise Beach Walk
- Shipwreck Playground + Pedal along the Waterfront
Each of these combines accessibility, appeal, educational or recreational value, and family safety.
What to Do in Santa Barbara with Kids?
Santa Barbara is uniquely suited to families: the climate is mild, many attractions are outdoors or semi-outdoors (so kids can burn energy), and the city is walkable and bike-friendly. Visit Santa Barbara highlights “kid-friendly itineraries” including building sandcastles, visiting interactive museums, and cruising along the Cabrillo bike path.
When you ask “What to do in Santa Barbara with kids?”, plan a mix: one big activity (museum or zoo) + low-key breaks (parks, beach strolls) + flexible downtime. That ensures no one (especially the younger ones) gets burned out. Also consider logistics: park early, bring snacks, and schedule around nap times or rest windows.
Below, we break down the Top 10 Family Friendly Things to Do in Santa Barbara for family in detail.
TOP 10 Family Friendly Things to Do in Santa Barbara
Here’s a curated list of the top ten UC Santa Barbara Family Activities to make your visit to Santa Barbara unforgettable.
The Santa Barbara Zoo
Perched on a bluff near the ocean, the Santa Barbara Zoo spans about 30 acres and houses over 160 species. One of its charms is how compact and walkable it feels — you’re never too far from shade, paths, or rest areas. Children especially love the narrow-gauge Zoo Train that loops through parts of the grounds.
Don’t miss the giraffe feeding experience and the “African Veldt,” “Australian Walkabout,” and “Cats of Africa” sections. Because of its location, you often get ocean breezes and views as you stroll between exhibits. Many families report it as one of Santa Barbara’s most memorable experiences.
Tips:
- Arrive early to beat crowds and midday heat.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy the grassy areas.
- Use stroller-friendly paths.
- Check for behind-the-scenes or keeper chat events (often time-based).
Walk Along Stearns Wharf
Stearns Wharf is a classic Santa Barbara icon, and walking its length is practically a rite of passage. As you stroll, you’ll find souvenir shops, casual restaurants, fishing off the railings, and gorgeous views out to sea and of the coastline.
At the end of the wharf is the Sea Center, run by the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History — a small marine interactive aquarium where kids can touch sea stars, learn about tide pool life, and enjoy live dive presentations.
Also nearby is the Lil’ Toot Water Taxi, which runs narrated short boat rides between the harbor and Stearns Wharf. SantaBarbara.com It’s a fun diversion, especially for kids who enjoy being on the water.
Play at Alameda Park for toddler
One of Santa Barbara’s gems is Alameda Park, home to the beloved Kids’ World Playground. The 8,000-square-foot wooden playground is designed for children ages 2 to 12, featuring castles, swings, slides, bridges, towers, and shady spots. Parks and Recreation
Because it’s centrally located near downtown, it’s an ideal spot for a break between museum stops or shopping. Many parents mention how kids can expend energy here while adults rest nearby.
Tip: bring sunscreen, water, and perhaps a snack — there are benches and shady trees around.
Downtown Santa Barbara
Downtown Santa Barbara, especially State Street and its attached paseos (arcade alleys), is full of pedestrian charm and family-friendly exploration. You’ll find shops, cafes, fountains, street musicians, and access to plazas like Plaza de la Guerra.
You can also discover hidden alleys, boutique galleries, and side streets that kids might find amusing. The underpasses and murals provide fun photo ops and diversions.
Downtown is also the walking route to get to Stearns Wharf, MOXI, and many dining destinations; it acts as a connector zone. And when children need downtime, a café or ice cream shop gives a comfortable rest point.
Santa Ynez Mountains
For families who enjoy a bit of nature, the Santa Ynez Mountains to the north offer accessible trails, viewpoints, and fresh air. Hikes such as those leading to Lizard’s Mouth Rock give panoramic vistas over the city, and it’s usually a short, manageable walk.
If your family is comfortable with slightly steeper grades, paths toward Inspiration Point or the foothills above Santa Barbara offer rewarding views without overexertion.
Tip: start early, bring water, and choose trails rated easy to moderate for children.
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
This is a must on your list. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History offers interactive exhibits, displays of local wildlife, paleontology, geology, and even a planetarium.
Kids are particularly drawn to the floor-level displays, the Creek Trail behind the museum, and the museum backyard where native plants and nature exploration await.
Also associated is the Sea Center located on Stearns Wharf (mentioned above), extending the natural history experience to the marine realm.
Plan for 1–2 hours here, and consider joining a guided program or star-gazing event if your schedule allows.
Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns wharf
Beyond the Wharf walk itself, the Santa Barbara Harbor is an active, lively zone. You’ll find fishing boats, charter tours (e.g. whale watching and kayaking), the Maritime Museum, docks full of marine life, and the Lil’ Toot water taxi as mentioned earlier.
The Maritime Museum offers hands-on exhibits — like a periscope that gives a 365° view of the harbor — which fascinates older kids.
Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available in the harbor, offering guided or independent watercraft tours.
If the kids are up for it, riding a surrey bicycle or cruiser bike from the harbor along the beachfront is a relaxing alternative to walking.
Explore the exhibits at the Moxi Museum
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, is a relatively new and vibrant interactive science museum in Santa Barbara. Designed with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) in mind, the museum spans roughly 17,000 square feet of engaging exhibits.
Highlights include hands-on building stations, musical and sensory displays, and a rooftop Sky Garden with views over the city.
MOXI is a perfect rainy-day option or a midday stop to break up outdoor touring. It provides stimulation for both younger and older kids.
Sunrise Beach Walk:
Start early and enjoy a peaceful sunrise stroll along one of Santa Barbara’s beaches — East Beach, Leadbetter Beach, or Butterfly Beach in nearby Montecito are popular choices.
Morning light, calm waves, and cooler air create an ideal moment for family bonding. Bring a light breakfast or coffee, and plan for building sandcastles or shallow paddling with kids. It’s a low-stakes but high-reward experience that sets the tone for the rest of the day.
Shipwreck Playground
Located along Cabrillo Boulevard, just east of Stearns Wharf, Shipwreck Playground is designed around a shipwreck concept.
The playground includes two climbing structures (one for ages 2–5, one for older kids), slides, nets, and sculptural features like whales and lighthouse elements — all set in soft white sand. It’s a fun place to let kids roam while parents relax nearby.
Pedal along Breezy Waterfront
Santa Barbara’s Cabrillo Bike Path runs parallel to the shoreline and is mostly flat, making it ideal for families. You can rent cruiser bikes, tandem bikes, surreys, or even four-person bikes to traverse from the harbor to nearby beaches.
The path connects many of the major attractions, making it both scenic and practical. Take in ocean views, stop at the bird refuge (Andrée Clark Bird Refuge), or loop to parks and piers.
Tip: bring helmets (often provided by rental shops), water bottles, and plan to stop frequently for photos or snacks.
The Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Santa Barbara
Your family adventures will build up appetites, so here are some family-friendly dining highlights in Santa Barbara (with local flavor):
- Santa Barbara Public Market — a food hall with many kid-friendly options (pizza, Mexican, sandwiches) and communal seating.
- Santa Barbara FisHouse — open-air coastal seafood fare with a relaxed vibe, suitable even for picky eaters.
- Lucky Penny (in the Funk Zone) — casual and pizza-forward, with an energetic outdoor patio.
- Shellfish Company (on Stearns Wharf) — fresh seafood right on the wharf, great for a casual meal with a view. (Adjacent to Sea Center)
- Corazón Cocina (Public Market / downtown) — elevated but still approachable Mexican fare, with gourmet touches.
- For dessert, McConnell’s Ice Cream is a local institution (two locations) with small-batch, artisan flavors that children adore.
Tips for dining with kids in Santa Barbara:
- Choose restaurants with patio or outdoor seating — sunlight and space help children feel free.
- Go early (5 pm) to beat dinner crowds.
- Many places near the waterfront or downtown are walking distance from your daytime itinerary.
- Grab a quick snack or ice cream between major meals to avoid meltdowns.
Commom Questions about Things to do in Santa Barbara with Kids (FAQs)
What are some family-friendly activities in Santa Barbara?
There are a variety of things to do with kids in Santa Barbara that cater to families. You can explore the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, visit the Natural History Sea Center for close encounters with marine animals, or spend a day at Arroyo Burro Beach, where kids can play in the sand and surf.
How can I book my stay in Santa Barbara?
You can easily book your stay in Santa Barbara through various travel websites or directly via hotel websites. Consider options near the end of State Street for proximity to attractions and family-friendly amenities.
What outdoor activities are available for families in Goleta?
Goleta, located just north of Santa Barbara, offers several outdoor activities for families. You can hike at the Douglas Family Preserve or enjoy a picnic along the beach. The area is perfect for kids to run around and explore nature.
What is there to do at the Museum of Natural History Sea Center?
The Museum of Natural History Sea Center is a fantastic spot for families. Kids can learn about marine life, engage in hands-on exhibits, and participate in educational programs that focus on ocean life and conservation efforts.
Are there fun activities for older children in Santa Barbara?
Yes, older children can enjoy a range of fun activities in Santa Barbara, such as whale watching excursions in the Santa Barbara Channel, surfing lessons, and exploring the historic Stearns Wharf. There are also various outdoor adventures available in the Channel Islands.
What can families do at the Santa Barbara Zoo?
The Santa Barbara Zoo is a great family-friendly destination where kids can see a variety of animals and participate in fun activities. The zoo also offers educational programs that teach about species survival plans and conservation.
How do I get to Santa Barbara from the Santa Barbara Airport?
The Santa Barbara Airport is conveniently located close to the city. You can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a rideshare service to reach your destination. Many hotels also offer shuttle services to and from the airport.
What should be included in a family itinerary for a trip to Santa Barbara?
A family itinerary for a trip to Santa Barbara should include visits to the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, the Natural History Sea Center, and a day at the beach, like Arroyo Burro Beach. Don’t forget to allocate time for exploring State Street and enjoying the scenic views along Cabrillo Boulevard.
Conclusion
Santa Barbara is a treasure trove of family-friendly things to do, offering a perfect blend of education, adventure, and relaxation. From the Santa Barbara Zoo to the beautiful beaches, there’s no shortage of activities that cater to families. Plan a family trip using this guide, and you’ll create lasting memories in this charming Californian city. Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of the Santa Ynez Mountains or enjoying a fun day at the MOXI Museum, Santa Barbara promises a delightful experience for families of all shapes and sizes.
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