Parks Near Santa Barbara, California
The American Riviera offers stunning coastal parks, Channel Islands access, and mountain wilderness.
Popular Parks Near Santa Barbara
Channel Islands National Park
20 miles by boat from Santa Barbara
4.7
National Park
Highlights:
- Island hiking
- Kayaking
- Endemic species
Los Padres National Forest
15 miles from Santa Barbara
4.5
National Forest
Highlights:
- Hot springs
- Condors
- Backcountry
Gaviota State Park
30 miles from Santa Barbara
4.3
State Park
Highlights:
- Secluded beach
- Wind caves
- Coastal trails
Popular Activities
- Kayaking
- Beach activities
- Hiking
- Whale watching
- Wine tasting
Best Times to Visit
- Spring for wildflowers
- Fall for warm water
- Year-round mild weather
Driving Tips
- Island Packers runs boats to Channel Islands
- Book island trips in advance
- Highway 154 over the mountains is scenic
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