Santa Barbara Cemetery
A historical cemetery with stunning ocean cliffside views, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into Santa Barbara's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer visitors
Santa Barbara Cemetery
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer visitors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historical cemetery with stunning ocean cliffside views, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into Santa Barbara's past.
"The most beautiful cemetery I've ever seen. Historical SB architecture, gorgeous grounds and best views."
📸 Respectful Photography
Photos are generally allowed. If questioned, confirm with the main office. Be respectful of the grounds.
🚶♀️ Stroll for Peace
A beautiful and serene place for a quiet walk and reflection, offering unique historical insights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ocean Cliffside Vistas
Western edge of the cemetery
Spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Barbara Channel Islands.
Historical Tombstones
Throughout the cemetery
Discover centuries-old headstones and monuments, many dating back to the 1800s.
Architectural Entrance
Main entrance
Admire the beautiful and historical Santa Barbara architecture at the cemetery's entrance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity and Views
Navigating the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hidden Cemetery "discovered" after some good mowing. Anyone have the history?
📸 Respectful Photography
Photos are generally allowed. If questioned, confirm with the main office. Be respectful of the grounds.
🚶♀️ Stroll for Peace
A beautiful and serene place for a quiet walk and reflection, offering unique historical insights.
Calvary cemetery overgrown…
Presidio Photos
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be found within the cemetery grounds.
⛰️ Scenic Overlooks
Enjoy stunning views of the ocean and Channel Islands from the cliffside sections.
Chumash Memorial Bear Sculpture Installed in Old Mission Cemetery
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Respectful Photography
Photos are generally allowed. If questioned, confirm with the main office. Be respectful of the grounds.
🚶♀️ Stroll for Peace
A beautiful and serene place for a quiet walk and reflection, offering unique historical insights.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be found within the cemetery grounds.
⛰️ Scenic Overlooks
Enjoy stunning views of the ocean and Channel Islands from the cliffside sections.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Santa Barbara Cemetery for its breathtaking ocean views and historical significance, calling it one of the most beautiful cemeteries they've seen. While some note concerns about groundskeeping practices, the overall atmosphere is described as peaceful and serene, making it a unique place for reflection and photography.
"A very historical and beautiful place to visit. When I lived here some decades ago I would come here to find a moment in peace (yes in a cemetery). Now that I have moved away from Santa Barbara I still come here to visit when I'm in town. My friends think I'm nuts when I first bring them here but afterwards appreciate the history and beauty of this place. This cemetery ends at the sea cliffs for a spectacular view. So many old tombstones here of famous people and many date back to the 1800's. Don't let the groundskeeper prevent you from taking photos here. They tried to tell me that once so I called the main office and said it was absolutely fine to take photos (respectfully of course).
If you get the chance I highly recommend to take a stroll here. You will be amazed by it's peace and beauty."
Rad Radster
"It’s OK. Coming from the northeast I expected a lot more trees and sculpture. Not really a cemetery to visit for a stroll as many of them are in other parts of the country.
Nice views of the landscape outside the cemetery from the top
There were a ton of people there working on the grass. I feel like they would be better off, getting a few goats and moving them around the property. Cheaper, better for the environment, and would provide something interesting to see when you visit the cemetery. Currently, every single gravestone is being ground down by weed whackers. Sad. And so noisy and disrespectful of the dead as well. I don’t think those souls resting there would mind visit from a cute
goat quietly trimming the grass instead."
Say M
"I never thought that I would give a cemetery a review, however this incredibly beautiful and serene place is in a class by itself and reserves recognition. The staff are excellent, of course but it is the location, overlooking the ocean and the Santa Barbara channel Islands can help a mourning a soul to find solace in the most of turbulent times.
It is also amazing place for photographs and tombstone rubbings."
Geoffrey B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Santa Barbara Cemetery is located at 1000 E Mountain Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93108. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach this historical site.
Yes, there is parking available within the cemetery grounds, making it easy for visitors to access the site.
Depending on your starting point in Santa Barbara, walking might be an option, but it's a significant distance from the downtown area. Biking is also a possibility, as mentioned by some visitors exploring the hills.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to visit the Santa Barbara Cemetery. It is a public space open for visitors to explore and appreciate its historical significance and natural beauty.
The cemetery is generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check for specific hours if you plan to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, though it's a place best enjoyed during the day.
Yes, photography is permitted at the Santa Barbara Cemetery, provided it is done respectfully. Some visitors have encountered groundskeepers who initially questioned photo-taking, but the main office confirmed it's acceptable.
Information regarding Santa Barbara Cemetery plot costs and availability for sale can typically be obtained by contacting the cemetery's administrative office directly.
A Santa Barbara Cemetery map might be available on-site or through their official website. For specific plot locations, services like 'Find a Grave' can be helpful resources.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore historical tombstones dating back to the 1800s, admire the unique architecture of the entrance, and enjoy spectacular ocean views from the cliffside. It's a place of peace and historical reflection.
Many visitors find the Santa Barbara Cemetery to be a very peaceful and beautiful place for a stroll, offering a serene environment and historical interest.
Yes, the cemetery is the final resting place for many notable individuals, with tombstones of famous people and historical figures dating back to the 19th century.
The cemetery offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Barbara Channel Islands, especially from its location on the sea cliffs.
The Santa Barbara Cemetery is a historical site with a long history, featuring graves that date back to the 1800s. It's a significant part of the city's heritage.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The cemetery is renowned for its stunning ocean views, historical tombstones, and beautiful architecture, making it a fantastic spot for photographers.
The cliffside overlooking the ocean offers breathtaking backdrops. The historical entrance and the intricate details on older headstones are also popular subjects.
While generally permitted, always practice respectful photography. Avoid disturbing services or other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to set expectations for children about the nature of the location and to emphasize respectful behavior. The open spaces and scenic beauty can be appealing, but the primary purpose is remembrance. Consider visiting during a quieter time to ensure a more peaceful experience for everyone.
📸 Photographers
Remember to be respectful of the grounds and any ongoing services. While photography is generally allowed, always prioritize reverence. The unique combination of history, art, and natural beauty makes this cemetery a standout subject for any photographer's portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Historical Significance and Notable Burials
Exploring the cemetery allows for a unique historical journey. The Santa Barbara Cemetery California location provides a serene backdrop for contemplating the lives of those who shaped the region. It’s a place where history is not just read about, but can be felt through the weathered stones and the stories they silently tell.
Breathtaking Ocean Views
Many visitors are surprised by the beauty of the cemeteries in Santa Barbara California, particularly this one. The juxtaposition of solemn remembrance with the vibrant, expansive ocean vista creates a powerful and unique atmosphere. It’s a place where one can find solace not only in history but also in the natural beauty surrounding it.
Visitor Experience and Groundkeeping
Despite these specific concerns, the overall sentiment from reviews highlights the cemetery's historical architecture, immaculately kept grounds, and unparalleled views. Visitors are encouraged to approach their visit with an appreciation for the history and beauty, while being mindful of the ongoing maintenance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit