Santa Barbara Zoo

Perched above the Pacific Ocean at 500 Ninos Drive in Santa Barbara, California, the Santa Barbara Zoo is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful zoos in the world. Spread across 30 acres of lush, coastal landscape, this family-friendly destination offers breathtaking ocean views, diverse wildlife, and engaging experiences that delight both locals and visitors to Santa Barbara year-round.

A Santa Barbara Icon

Just minutes from East Beach, Stearns Wharf, and Downtown Santa Barbara, the zoo combines natural beauty with an intimate, walkable layout that makes it easy to explore in a single afternoon. More than 500 animals representing over 100 species call the zoo home — from African lions and Western lowland gorillas to California condors, Humboldt penguins, giraffes, amur leopards, and giant anteaters. Each habitat is designed with care, emphasizing the zoo’s dedication to animal welfare, education, and conservation.

Family-Friendly Activities & Experiences

Visitors can do more than just observe — they can interact and engage. The Giraffe Feeding Experience is one of the most popular attractions, offering guests the rare opportunity to hand-feed Masai giraffes while enjoying a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. The Zoo Train, a miniature railway that circles the property, is another favorite among families and children, offering scenic rides through the zoo’s lush grounds.

Educational programs, zookeeper talks, and animal encounters are available daily, helping visitors of all ages learn more about wildlife and conservation efforts. For younger guests, the Kallman Family Play Area provides a safe and fun environment to climb, crawl, and explore.

Events & Memberships

Throughout the year, the Santa Barbara Zoo hosts a range of popular community events that draw both locals and tourists. Seasonal favorites include:

• Boo at the Zoo – A family-friendly Halloween celebration filled with costumes, candy, and spooky fun.

• ZooLights – A dazzling holiday light experience that transforms the zoo into a glowing wonderland.

• Zoo Brew – A craft beer festival for adults, featuring local breweries, food vendors, and live music with views of the ocean and the animals.

Local residents can enjoy year-round access through annual memberships, which include unlimited admission, guest passes, discounts on events, and early access to ticketed programs.

Commitment to Conservation

Beyond entertainment, the Santa Barbara Zoo plays an important role in wildlife preservation. It actively participates in breeding programs for endangered species, supports conservation research, and promotes sustainable practices throughout its operations. Its work with the California Condor Recovery Program is especially noteworthy, helping restore populations of one of North America’s most iconic birds.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a school field trip, a romantic date, or even a private event, the Santa Barbara Zoo offers a memorable experience surrounded by ocean breezes and mountain views. The zoo’s scenic lawns and event spaces are frequently used for weddings, corporate functions, and community gatherings.

Plan Your Visit

📍 Address: 500 Ninos Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
⏰ Hours: Typically 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (check the website for seasonal hours)
🎟️ Tickets: Available online or at the gate. Discounts offered for children, seniors, and members.
🌐 Website: www.sbzoo.org
📞 Phone: (805) 962-5339