Goleta, California

Goleta Beach

Comprising a park, slough, and wetlands, Goleta Beach is a manmade beach that was established in 1945. No matter what time of the year you visit, you’ll be met with gentle breezes and a quiet surf, making it a laid-back place to enjoy your day with family and friends. Bring along a picnic basket as there are several designated picnic areas on the beachfront or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many bars and restaurants that line the place. Though surfing is not extremely popular on the waters here, you may catch a short wave. Other activities that are available include bodyboarding, water polo, kayaking, swimming, and beach volleyball. There’re also several horseshoe pits, a playground for younger visitors, and a pier to relax on.

5986 Sandspit Rd, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-568-2461

Goleta Butterfly Grove

Goleta Butterfly Grove, which can be found in the Ellwood Main Monarch Aggregation, is a popular attraction with both locals and visitors. The best time to visit is from November through February, when you can witness the amazing migration of Monarch butterflies to the grove. Visitors can spend the day there just exploring the large outdoor space, getting up close with the butterflies, and viewing several different species of birds. Adjacent to the grove, you will find the Ellwood Mesa, which is a 137-acre open space full of trails, a beach, and several amenities to assist you.

7559 Palos Verdes Dr, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-961-7571

Circle Bar B Guest Ranch & Stables

The Circle Bar B Guest Ranch & Stables has been owned and operated by the Brown family for four generations. Circle Bar B was established in 1939 as a way of sharing the area’s pristine beauty with people so that visitors can enjoy it as much as they do. The ranch now spans nearly 1,100 acres and has so much for you to see and experience; you can spend your time there walking the coastal mountain paradise, looking out for local flora and fauna, going horseback riding, or relaxing in the beautiful guest ranch. You can enjoy some delicious food and outstanding service as you make some unforgettable memories while in Goleta.

1800 Refugio Rd, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-968-1113

Coronado Butterfly Preserve

The Coronado Butterfly Preserve spans 9.3 acres and houses an array of woodlands, meadows, and eucalyptus groves. You will see and experience so much in this urban community treasure, from several species of wildlife and birds to one of the largest Monarch butterfly groves in the state. It’s a popular place to explore as you come across several native trees and plants during your adventure. Spend your time walking by the serene Devereux Creek, hiking through the innumerable trails, or having a picnic in the designated outdoor gathering areas. The trails line to several other sites such as Devereux Slough, Ellwood Shores coastal bluffs, and Goleta Monarch Grove.

495 Coronado Dr, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-966-4520

Rancho La Patera & Stow House

Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, the Rancho La Patera & Stow House is a historical landmark that was formerly the headquarters of Rancho La Patera. It is now home to the Goleta Historical Society, who invite visitors from all over to come explore and experience the amazing structure and surrounding grounds. You can go on a guided tour of the Stow House, learn interesting facts at the Visitor Interpretive Center, and get up close with the hands-on exhibits that are on display in the History Education Center. You’ll be able to see family photographs, period furniture, and hear stories about Sherman and Ida Stow and their family.

304 N Los Carneros Rd, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-681-7216

South Coast Railroad Museum

Focusing on the history, technology, and adventure of railroading, the South Coast Railroad Museum is housed in the Goleta Depot, which is a Southern Pacific Railroad train station that was established in 1901. The depot is listed on the California Registry of Historical Resources and the National Register of Historic Places; within the museum you’ll be able to see several photographs and artifacts about the depot, the railroad industry, and the many people behind it. Kids will enjoy learning about the railroad’s contributions to local history and its impact on rural communities across the United States. Additional features also include seeing model train sets, a Southern Pacific caboose, and going on a miniature train ride.

300 N Los Carneros Rd, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-964-3540

Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve

The Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve is one of the best current examples of a coastal-strand environment in Southern California. You’ll be able to explore a largely undisturbed stretch of coastal dunes, shoreline, and estuarine habitats. In the heart of the reserve, you’ll be able to explore Devereux Slough, which is a flooded tidal lagoon that forms seasonally before drying out to form hypersaline ponds and salt flats. It’s a wonderful place to visit for those who want to observe the area’s flora and fauna; ornithology aficionados should definitely come with a pair of binoculars as there are thousands of migratory birds that visit the reserve.

Draughtsmen Aleworks

Draughtsmen Aleworks is a micro craft brewery and taproom in Goleta that is just ten minutes from downtown Santa Barbara. They specialize in small batch beers made with familiar IPAs and ales, as well as the occasional experimental brew. All their beers are approachable and have distinct taste that makes it a popular choice with the people of the community as well as visitors of the area. Great beers of theirs that you should try include the Perseverance light lager, Buxom Blonde blonde ale, and Nama Biru Japanese rice lager. Head on over to their tap room, which is often visited by food cart of all sorts and hosts events like trivia night and performances by local musicians.

53 Santa Felicia Dr, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-387-2577

Ice in Paradise

Ice in Paradise is a public skating sports and recreational facility that is operated by the Greater Santa Barbara Ice Skating Association. The award-winning arena spans 46,500 square feet and is open to residents and visitors all year long. Inside, you’ll find two rinks: the Snider Rink, which is an NHL size rink, and the Norqual Rink, which is a smaller studio ice skating rink. Additional facilities that are available at Ice in Paradise are six team locker rooms, a specially-equipped adaptive sports locker room, a figure skating room, a meeting room, food concessions, and rental skates. There are several organized programs and events for skaters of all ages available throughout the year.

6985 Santa Felicia Dr, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-879-1550

Arroyo Hondo Vista Point

The Arroyo Hondo Vista Point is a bridge that was built in 1918 to originally serve highway US 101; it did so until 1984 until a bypass was constructed and now serves as a scenic overlook. The overlook is a wonderful place to stop by as you drive through Goleta as it provides stunning views of the Gaviota Coast. Be sure to bring your binoculars so you can scan the ocean and surroundings for interesting landmarks and migrating whales; don’t worry if you do forget though, as the vista is installed with telescopes for public use. Be sure to check out the interpretive panels there which give an overview of the coast’s history and is filled with interesting tidbits on the surroundings.

15550 El Camino Real, Goleta, CA 93117

Goleta Point

Also known as Campus Point, Goleta Point is a small peninsula found off the city of Goleta. The rock formation forms an extension into the Santa Barbara Channel and is popular with several species of shorebirds. You can walk through the beach cliffs, listening to the sound of crashing waves, as you explore this stunning place. Goleta Point is said to be one of Santa Barbara’s best surf breaks, though the conditions are dependent on the direction of the wind and swell. It’s a great place to go exploring and enjoy the lovely outdoors while in the area.

Silver Peak Wilderness

Established in 1992, Silver Peak Wilderness is a lovely outdoor space that is within the Los Padres National Forest. Visitors and locals flock to the area to go hiking, backpacking, horse riding, or camping, all of which can be done safely and surrounded by the stunning beauty the wilderness offers. While there, you’re sure to come across steep canyons, waterfalls, coastlines, and an expansive array of flora and fauna. It is one of the best places to see trees such as the big leaf maple, red alder, gray pine, and the California sycamore. Kids of all ages are sure to have a great time exploring the outdoors.

Rock Star Trolley

Voted as Santa Barbara’s ‘Best Trolley Company”, Rock Star Trolley is a wonderful way to go sightseeing while in Goleta. The unique open-air trolleys are sure to make your trip memorable as you go on their spectacular tour through Santa Barbara and all the sights there are to see. There are special trolley events throughout the year such as their Christmas Lights Tour and Brewery Tour which includes tastings at three different local craft breweries. Their Wine Trolley Tours are a popular choice as they take passengers through Santa Barbara’s stunning wine country and includes complimentary refreshments and snacks such as cheese, crackers, and chocolates.

217 West Gutierrez, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, Phone: 805-451-9999

The Bistro at Bacara

Housed in The Ritz-Carlton, the kitchen at The Bistro at Bacara is run by renowned chef Umit Kaygusuz who partners with sustainable food sources and local partners to create mouthwatering dishes. Sit out on their oceanfront terrace for a romantic dinner complete with wood-burning fireplace and overlooking the hotel swimming pool and bar. The traditional bistro has a casual dining atmosphere and offers a menu filled with seasonal salads, brick-oven pizzas, and their signature Bistro burger which shouldn’t be missed. It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and dishes that have proven popular with their patrons include the California Florentine, the crab cake sliders, and the seafood paella served over Spanish bomba rice.

The Ritz-Carlton: 8301 Hollister Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93117, Phone: 805-571-3018

Kyle's Kitchen

Awarded ‘Best New Restaurant in Santa Barbara’ by the Santa Barbara News Press and ‘Innovative Business of the Year’ by the Goleta Valley Chamber of Commerce, it’s no surprise that you’re in for a marvelous dining experience with a visit to Kyle's Kitchen. The restaurant was inspired by Kyle, a 14-year-old boy who was born with special needs and loves cheeseburgers; each time you dine at the restaurant, a portion of the proceeds go to organizations that help people with special needs reach their potential. In addition to doing something great, you will also be feasting on delicious items from their menu like the seared ahi tuna burger, the Earth Burger with a handmade veggie patty, and the Firefighter which is a grass-fed beef patty topped with bacon, ranch, and cheese.

Calle Real Shopping Center: 5723 Calle Real, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-845-2260

Jane at The Marketplace

Jane at The Marketplace is a family owned and operated restaurant that is dedicated to Jane Moody, a loving and warm person who enjoyed travel and good food. The restaurant reflects her character by providing a cozy atmosphere in which you can enjoy family recipes that have been passed down for years. Their lunch and dinner menu are filled with mouth-watering favorites such as brick-oven pizzas, hearty sandwiches, and plates of grilled duck breast, veal puttanesca, and grilled filet mignon. If you get the opportunity, stop by for their weekend brunch which is filled with traditional and modern offerings like goat cheese pancakes, Idaho trout salad, and Chinese bay scallops.

Camino Real Marketplace: 6940 Market Pl Dr, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-770-5388

Bowlero

Home to 24 of the most stylish and advanced bowling lanes in the region, Bowlero is a great option for bowling enthusiasts. Each of the lanes features black lights, soft seats and huge video walls where you can watch a game, music videos or even family movies. Bowlero is perfect for kids, teens and adult parties – all you need to do is round up some of your friends or work-mates and Bowlero’s dedicated event planners will do the rest. Party packages include bowling, meals and drinks and can be tailored to suit your event. There is a great Sports Bar where you can enjoy craft beers, wines and special cocktails.

Bowlero, 5925 Calle Real, Goleta, CA 93117, 805 967 0128