Cabrillo Boulevard and East Beach Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara's iconic East Beach and Cabrillo Boulevard offer sun-drenched shores, scenic promenades, and breathtaking ocean sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Cabrillo Boulevard and East Beach Santa Barbara
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Santa Barbara's iconic East Beach and Cabrillo Boulevard offer sun-drenched shores, scenic promenades, and breathtaking ocean sunsets.
"The sunsets over the ocean are breathtaking. Find a good spot along Cabrillo Blvd for an unforgettable view.
"🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunsets over the ocean are breathtaking. Find a good spot along Cabrillo Blvd for an unforgettable view .
🚶♀️ Stroll or Bike the Path
Enjoy the coastal breeze and scenic views by walking or renting a bike along the promenade .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
East Beach
Adjacent to Cabrillo Boulevard
Expansive sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games. A quintessential California coastal experience.
Cabrillo Boulevard Promenade
Along the waterfront
A vibrant stretch for leisurely walks, bike rides, and enjoying ocean views. Lined with palm trees and offering access to various amenities.
Cabrillo Pavilion
1118 E Cabrillo Blvd
A historic venue hosting events and offering stunning ocean vistas, especially at sunset .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Beach Vibe
Navigating the Waterfront
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunsets over the ocean are breathtaking. Find a good spot along Cabrillo Blvd for an unforgettable view.
🚶♀️ Stroll or Bike the Path
Enjoy the coastal breeze and scenic views by walking or renting a bike along the promenade.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tricky. Arrive early or consider using ride-shares for easier access.
🏖️ Beach Essentials
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Tar balls can sometimes be an issue on the sand.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunsets over the ocean are breathtaking. Find a good spot along Cabrillo Blvd for an unforgettable view.
🚶♀️ Stroll or Bike the Path
Enjoy the coastal breeze and scenic views by walking or renting a bike along the promenade.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tricky. Arrive early or consider using ride-shares for easier access.
🏖️ Beach Essentials
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Tar balls can sometimes be an issue on the sand.
🌮 Taco Break Nearby
For a taste of local flavor, consider a short trip to La Super-Rica Taqueria, a Julia Child favorite.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the classic California beach experience at East Beach and the scenic beauty of Cabrillo Boulevard. The sunsets are consistently praised, and the promenade is ideal for leisurely activities. Some find parking challenging, and occasional tar balls on the sand can be a minor inconvenience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
East Beach is easily accessible via Cabrillo Boulevard. If driving, there are parking lots along the boulevard, though they can fill up quickly. Public transportation options are available, and many visitors opt for ride-sharing services for convenience. Biking is also a popular way to reach the beach.
Yes, there are several parking lots and street parking available along Cabrillo Boulevard. However, during peak times and events, parking can be scarce and metered. Arriving early or considering alternative transportation is often recommended.
Absolutely! Cabrillo Boulevard features a beautiful promenade perfect for walking and biking. Many visitors enjoy renting bikes or simply strolling along the waterfront to enjoy the ocean views and fresh air.
The most enjoyable ways to explore the waterfront are by walking or biking along Cabrillo Boulevard. This allows you to take in the scenery at your own pace and easily access different points of interest.
Santa Barbara has a public bus system that serves the downtown and waterfront areas. Check the local transit authority's website for routes and schedules that can take you near Cabrillo Boulevard and East Beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, East Beach itself is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and ocean freely. Parking fees may apply in the adjacent lots.
Cabrillo Boulevard is a public street and promenade, so there's no cost to walk or bike along it. Some venues or attractions along the boulevard may have their own admission fees, and parking will incur charges.
The Cabrillo Pavilion is primarily a venue for events. If you plan to attend a specific event, you will need to purchase tickets for that event. Otherwise, it's a landmark to view from the outside.
Yes, enjoying the beach, swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and walking along the promenade are all free activities at East Beach and along Cabrillo Boulevard.
East Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. Specific facilities like restrooms or lifeguard stations may have their own hours of operation.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
At East Beach, you can swim, sunbathe, play beach volleyball, build sandcastles, or simply relax by the ocean. The adjacent Cabrillo Boulevard promenade is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling.
Yes, public restrooms and outdoor showers are typically available at East Beach, making it convenient for a day of sun and surf.
East Beach is very family-friendly, with plenty of space for kids to play in the sand and shallow areas in the water suitable for younger swimmers. Lifeguards are often on duty during peak seasons.
The Cabrillo Pavilion hosts a variety of events, including sports competitions like the Fiesta Invitational,
community gatherings, and private functions. Check local listings for upcoming events.Yes, there are usually several places along Cabrillo Boulevard where you can rent bicycles, perfect for exploring the waterfront.
🍽️ 🌮 Food & Dining
Yes, there are several dining options along Cabrillo Boulevard, ranging from casual cafes to restaurants. For a highly recommended local experience, consider La Super-Rica Taqueria on Milpas Street, a favorite of Julia Child.
Along Cabrillo Boulevard, you'll find various casual eateries and cafes. For a unique local taco experience, La Super-Rica Taqueria is a must-try, though it's a short drive from the immediate beachfront.
Food availability at the Cabrillo Pavilion depends on the event being held. For general access, dining options are more readily found along Cabrillo Boulevard itself.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to East Beach for a picnic. Remember to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
The legendary Julia Child's favorite taco shop in Santa Barbara is La Super-Rica Taqueria, located on North Milpas Street.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of East Beach offers beautiful ocean views. For iconic shots, capture the palm trees lining Cabrillo Boulevard, the Cabrillo Pavilion, and the stunning sunsets over the water.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset provides the most magical light for photography, casting a warm glow over the beach and ocean.
Weekday mornings offer softer light and fewer people for unobstructed shots.Yes, the vibrant atmosphere of Cabrillo Boulevard, with its palm trees, beachgoers, and ocean backdrop, offers many unique photo opportunities. The architecture of the Cabrillo Pavilion is also a notable subject.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing distant surfers. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the blue of the sky and water.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with the City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department for any restrictions or permit requirements before flying a drone in this area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing beach toys, sunscreen, and snacks. While parking can be a challenge, arriving earlier in the day can help secure a spot. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to spend a full day enjoying the sun, sand, and sea without feeling rushed.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Look for happy hour deals at waterfront restaurants if you decide to dine out. Many of the most memorable experiences here, like the stunning ocean views and the vibrant beach atmosphere, don't cost a dime.
couples
For a memorable dining experience, explore the charming restaurants in the nearby Funk Zone or enjoy a casual, yet iconic, meal at La Super-Rica Taqueria for a taste of local flavor.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Santa Barbara Coastline
Visitors often highlight the relaxed yet lively atmosphere of this coastal stretch. The presence of the historic Cabrillo Pavilion adds a touch of architectural charm and serves as a venue for local events, including sports competitions like the Fiesta Invitational. The boulevard is also lined with palm trees, enhancing the quintessential California beach vibe. For those looking to explore further, bike rentals are readily available, allowing for an easy exploration of the coastline and nearby Stearns Wharf.
While the beach itself is free to access, be mindful of parking, which can be challenging during busy periods. Some visitors have noted occasional issues with tar balls on the sand, so it's wise to be prepared. Despite these minor considerations, the overall experience of the Santa Barbara coastline is overwhelmingly positive, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Culinary Delights Near the Waterfront
Beyond this iconic taqueria, the area along Cabrillo Boulevard itself features a range of casual dining establishments, cafes, and ice cream parlors. These spots are perfect for grabbing a quick bite, a refreshing drink, or a sweet treat while enjoying the ocean views. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, classic American fare, or international flavors, you'll find options to satisfy your appetite. Many of these eateries offer outdoor seating, allowing you to soak in the coastal ambiance while you dine.
For those seeking a more local, community-driven food experience, exploring the Milpas Street corridor, where La Super-Rica is located, can yield further discoveries. This area is known for its diverse range of ethnic restaurants and markets, offering a glimpse into Santa Barbara's multicultural culinary landscape. Remember that La Super-Rica Taqueria is cash-only, so be sure to bring some bills with you.
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