10 Best Spots To Watch The Sunset In Santa Barbara
Located about 100 miles from LA, Santa Barbara is the ultimate vacation spot. From world-class vineyards at its doorstep, to fresh seafood, to views for days, this beach town is often overlooked but worth stopping by if you’re traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway. While the PCH offers other scenic gems like the Big Creek Bridge and hiking spots in Monterey, there’s nothing quite like the simple experience of watching the sun go down on a late afternoon in Santa Barbara.
Thankfully, you’re spoiled for options. From beaches to national parks, we’ve compiled a list of our 10 favorite spots to catch the sunset in Santa Barbara.
1. Shoreline Park
Leadbetter Beach, from Shoreline Park in Santa Barbara
Shoreline Park perfectly embodies what it means to live in a coastal city like Santa Barbara. On any given day, cyclers, runners, and surfers enjoy the sea breeze, stunning ocean views, and mountains.
If you're looking to chase the sunset in motion, we recommend renting a bike and cycling from Butterfly Beach to Shoreline Park along the coast. The journey will take about 4 miles, and you'll be able to soak in incredible views while zooming by several beaches. This includes East Beach, West Beach, and Leadbetter Beach—the place where all failed leaders go for some intense training. Okay, not true. We have no idea why it’s called that.
Anyway, here’s where you’ll come across a wetland known as the Andree Clark Bird Refuge here. On any given day, the gorgeous sunset hues reflect beautifully against its waters.
Location: Shoreline Dr & Santa Rosa Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
2. Stearns Wharf
Another fantastic place to watch the sunset in Santa Barbara is Stearns Wharf.
As California's oldest working wharf, Stearns Wharf has become one of the most timeless and iconic landmarks in all of Santa Barbara. Named after its builder, local lumberman John P. Stearns, the wharf dating back to 1872, had served California's South Coast passenger and freight shipping needs for over 25 years. This historical site spans East Beach and stretches out into the Pacific Ocean.
The wharf also features several world-class restaurants, specialty shops, and even an aquarium for you to check out while you wait for sunset hour. You know you've reached the area when you spot a dolphin fountain or a replica cannon. For the best view of the city and the ocean, head toward the end of the pier.
3. A Beachside Restaurant
Indulging in mouth-watering seafood and enjoying the sunset in Santa Barbara are two things you've got to do before leaving the coastal city. Thankfully, you get the best of both worlds when you dine at one of the region's many oceanfront restaurants. Here are some of our top recommendations.
Toma Restaurant and Bar
If you're craving Italian, check out Toma Restaurant and Bar, a cozy eatery situated near West Beach and not far from Stearns Wharf. It features authentic Italian dishes and an extensive wine list with harbor vistas. The Lasagna, Gnocchi, and Tuna Cone are all great dishes to try out. For dessert, try the citrus Olive Oil Cake, made from a 25-year-old recipe, or the Phyllo Crisp, a crowd favorite.
As it's one of the most booked restaurants in Santa Barbara, it’s best to make a reservation about a week in advance!
Brothy Bros
Brothy Bros is another lovely place to dine while watching the sun go down, with its lively atmosphere and patio seating options. Here’s where you can get probably the best clam chowder in town. We hear their garlic-baked clams don’t disappoint as well.
Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach
For one of the best sunset-viewing spots in town, grab a glass of wine and head outside to the deck of Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach. This upscale beachside spot serves seafood and brunch food along with unparalleled panoramic ocean views, which you can enjoy from the comfort of their heated outdoor patio. Their seafood pasta is a must-try when you’re there.
Even if you’re not dining during sunset, getting an eggs benedict there for breakfast and heading outside for a morning stroll by the beach is also a great option.
4. Arroyo Burro Beach
Arroyo Burro Beach also goes by the name Hendry's Beach by locals. This public beach off of Cliff Drive is where various coastal bluffs of the Wilcox Property will surround you. Known for its mild surf, proximity to local parks, and winding coastline, Arroyo Burro Beach is the perfect spot for sunbathing or engaging in physical activities. Visitors can also easily access the many trails that lead to other parks.
Spend an entire afternoon there paddleboarding, surfing, fishing, strolling along the beach, or simply relaxing as you await the moment when the fiery ball in the sky sinks into the horizon.
As you might've already guessed, Boathouse at Hendry's Beach is also right there, so swing by for happy hour which runs from 3 pm-6 pm most days.
5. Channel Islands National Park
View from Potato Harbor, Santa Cruz Island, Santa Barbara
Located just off the coast of Santa Barbara, you'll find Channel Islands National Park, a collection of five stunning islands that make up the archipelago. Have your pick from the islands of Santa Barbara, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, and Anacapa, all of which you can witness the gorgeous sunset from.
Pro Tip: The islands are not accessible by vehicles, so it’s best to schedule a boat trip there in advance!
Channel Islands National Park protects over 2,000 species of wildlife, 145 of which are native to the area. One is the Island Fox, which you may come across while you're there. The park also stands out for its well-preserved cultural heritage. Some archaeological discoveries made on the island boast a thousand-over-year-long history, which you'll be able to see up close in person.
As the island doesn't have any amenities, you'll have to bring your own camping gear and food. But with stunning sunset views, a chance to spot marine life, and the general calming atmosphere of being surrounded by nature, it’s an experience that leaves little room for regret.
6. Lizard’s Mouth Rock
While the journey to Lizard's Mouth is less of a hike and more of a boulder-hopping experience, it’s perfect for active adventurers seeking a jaw-dropping spot to view the sunset in Santa Barbara. The mountainous rock formation located in the Los Padres National Forest resembles a Lizard's mouth (hence the name) and overlooks the coastal city.
Sunset in Santa Barbara: View from Lizard Mouth’s Rock
Its wind-carved pockets naturally give it its unique animal-like shape. Throughout the hike, you'll also get ample chances to pick the perfect rock to perch yourself on as you admire the views during golden hour and beyond while feeling on top of the world.
7. Inspiration Point
Sunset in Santa Barbara: View from Inspiration Point
Another hike on the list is the one to Inspiration Point. This one may get your heart pumping, being a moderate 3.5-mile trail, but you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Santa Barbara's land, sea, and sky once you're there.
In alignment with its name, Inspiration Point is also where hikers have developed the tradition of using rocks to make words to inspire and encourage other hikers. Pretty neat, huh?
As one of the city's more popular trails, you may have to park slightly further away from the trailhead. Once you've arrived, head uphill on a paved road that will eventually turn into a dirt road. Follow the signs to take a series of trails that will lead you to Inspiration Point.
Pro Tip: There's little shade throughout the trail, so make sure you bring a hat for the journey.
8. East Beach
Sunset in Santa Barbara: View from East Beach
Separated from West Beach by Stearn's Wharf, East Beach is another pleasant spot to watch the sunset. It is a relatively quiet and clean beach, with soft sand to walk on and several big grassy areas for picnics.
On a typical weekend, you may witness special events such as an art show or a soccer game. East Beach also has the full range of amenities every beach lover could ask for: a full beach house, oceanfront restaurants, cycling & rollerblading paths, and even a playground area for kids.
There is free street parking right on Cabrillo Blvd; from there, it's a short one-minute walk to the beach. Walk westwards on the beach for the best views of the sunset.
9. Franceschi Park
Another spot to catch breathtaking views of the sunset in Santa Barbara from high above is Franceschi Park. This tranquil 5-acre urban park on Santa Barbara’s Riviera was once home to the late botanist Francesco Franceschi. If you’ve got green fingers, you’ll be in for a real treat as the park includes various exotic plant species and highlights the unique sights of Mediterranean-climate landscaping.
10. From the Sea
Some residents of Santa Barbara say that the best place to see the sunset is from the waters, where your view is fully unblocked by any structure or vegetation. You can either get your surfs up, get on a sailboat, or go kayaking on one of the many beaches on this list.
Alternatively, a sunset cruise might be right up your alley if you just want to sit back and relax. While you're at it, check out some of the best adventures to embark on in Santa Barbara.
What Time is Sunset in Santa Barbara?
It varies throughout the year, so head over here to get the most accurate sunset or sunrise timings in Santa Barbara.
