Located between Santa Barbara’s iconic Stearns Wharf and the bustling Harbor, West Beach offers a picture-perfect slice of California’s Central Coast. With a wide sandy shore, calm waters, and easy access to some of Santa Barbara’s most famous landmarks, West Beach is an ideal destination for beach-goers, food lovers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant waterfront scene.
Things to Do at West Beach Santa Barbara
Enjoy Water Sports and Outdoor Fun
West Beach’s gentle surf and centralized location make it an excellent spot for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and even guided sailing lessons. Head over to the Santa Barbara Sailing Center to rent gear or book an excursion—they offer whale watching, sunset cruises, and private charters that let you experience the coastline from a fresh perspective.
Explore Stearns Wharf & Santa Barbara Harbor
Just steps from the sand, you’ll find Stearns Wharf—California’s oldest working wharf—filled with specialty shops, ice cream parlors, and local seafood spots. Stroll out over the Pacific for beautiful views, or continue on to the Santa Barbara Harbor, where you can watch fishing boats unload their catches and admire luxury yachts. The Harbor’s Maritime Museum and a variety of sightseeing cruises ensure there’s always something new to discover.
Bike or Stroll Along the Cabrillo Bike Path
The scenic Cabrillo Bike Path, which stretches along the waterfront, provides a perfect setting for a leisurely bike ride or walk. Rental options abound, and you can easily connect to East Beach, Chase Palm Park, and the Funk Zone, where wine-tasting rooms and local art galleries await.
Best Restaurants Near West Beach Santa Barbara
Toma Restaurant & Bar
At 324 W Cabrillo Blvd, Toma is a beloved waterfront eatery offering Italian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. With fresh, locally sourced ingredients, an impressive wine list, and romantic harbor views, it’s a favorite for date nights and special occasions.
Bluewater Grill
Situated in the Harbor at 15 E Cabrillo Blvd, Bluewater Grill serves sustainably caught seafood, chowder, and oysters in a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy panoramic views of sailboats and the Channel Islands in the distance, and sip a handcrafted cocktail as you savor the catch of the day.
Moby Dick Restaurant
On Stearns Wharf, Moby Dick Restaurant delivers classic seafood fare and all-day breakfast with front-row views of the Pacific. This casual spot is a great choice for families, and those looking to dine just steps away from their next ocean adventure.
Top Hotels Near West Beach Santa Barbara
Hotel Milo Santa Barbara
Located at 202 W Cabrillo Blvd, Hotel Milo offers a chic, boutique-style experience right across from the beach. Rooms feature coastal-inspired décor, and guests can enjoy complimentary bike rentals, a pool, and easy access to the waterfront’s best attractions.
Harbor View Inn
Just down the street at 28 W Cabrillo Blvd, the Harbor View Inn provides a luxurious stay with ocean-view rooms, a full-service spa, and an inviting pool area. The on-site restaurants and lounges mean you’re never far from a great meal or a refreshing drink.
The Eagle Inn
Tucked on a quiet residential street at 232 Natoma Ave, The Eagle Inn is a charming boutique hotel offering a more intimate experience. Warm, friendly service, complimentary breakfast, and a cozy ambiance make it a favorite among travelers who appreciate a home-away-from-home feel.
Plan Your Perfect Day at West Beach Santa Barbara
Whether you’re renting a paddleboard, sampling local flavors at the Harbor, or simply relaxing on a lounge chair while the world goes by, West Beach offers an authentic taste of Santa Barbara’s coastal lifestyle. From its easy access to Stearns Wharf and the Harbor to an array of hotels and dining options just steps from the sand, West Beach makes it easy to explore, unwind, and enjoy the best that Santa Barbara has to offer.