Southern California is synonymous with sunshine, towering palms, scenic highways, and stunning coastline. But the most coveted beaches are those clustered in Santa Barbara (aka the ‘American Riviera’) and nearby communities of Montecito and Carpinteria. Backed by the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara has been a much-loved beach destination since the silent-movie era when then film legend Charlie Chaplin helped to create the Montecito Inn (in 1928) and chose the city as the destination for his marriage to Oona O’Neill. Today, Hollywood’s Rob Lowe, Gwyneth Paltrow, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and George Lucas are among the celebrities who call Santa Barbara home.
My personal discovery of the area came in the 90s when a friend moved (back) to this playground by the sea. Though originally from New England, she had lived most of her life in Santa Barbara and deeply missed its natural mountain-to-sea beauty. On my first visit — noting the trees bursting with avocados and lemons in the backyard of her sweet Carpinteria home — I understood why she’d left the east coast. Every year, like clockwork, I would visit her — and every year, she would share her newest finds: shopping and art galleries, the freshest Mexican food, and always, a different beach. Among her (and now my) favorites:
Butterfly Beach, Montecito

My friend’s favorite (and possibly mine too), Butterfly Beach — named after the monarch butterflies that once inhabited the native grasses here — sits just across the street from the Four Seasons Resort, The Biltmore Santa Barbara. The historic Spanish Colonial Revival-style hotel reopens later this year (with a new Nobu restaurant) following a four-year renovation. Watch for celebrities strolling incognito along the bougainvillea-lined promenade with their furry friends. Dogs are not only welcome but allowed to run leash free on the beach here. The calm waters make this a perfect beach for swimming.
Insider’s Tip: Butterfly Beach faces west, making for a truly spectacular sunset.
Miramar Beach, Montecito

Although it moonlights as private property (it’s not), this intimate, tucked-away beach overlooks the gorgeous Rosewood Miramar Beach (which recently debuted FronteMare by Caruso’s in its new outdoor dining space), and borders an upscale residential neighborhood. Ideal for swimming, Miramar Beach is also a walker’s dream. Walk to the west and find Hammonds Beach, popular among surfers, and Hammonds Meadow Trail, fringed with bougainvillea; or head east to check out the million-dollar beachfront homes at Fernald Point. Dogs are welcome — but must be leashed.
Insider’s Tip: Oprah, Harry and Meghan, Tom Cruise, and Kevin Costner are just a few of the celebs who live in Montecito.
East Beach

One of Santa Barbara’s best-known beaches, this 1.6-mile stretch of sand runs east from Stearns Wharf and is a favorite spot for volleyball — major tournaments are held throughout the year. The calm waters also make this a popular beach for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking (rental equipment is available), as well as cycling along the scenic bike-to-sea path.
Insider’s Tip: Watch for tarballs, the result of the oil released from natural offshore seeps. Baby wipes do wonders to clean off the feet.
Arroyo Burro Beach County Park (Hendry’s Beach)
Arroyo Burro Beach (aka. “Hendry’s Beach”) is a local’s favorite — especially among dog owners. Head left to let furry friends run free; go right and keep leashed. Other frequent mammal sightings include dolphins, seals, and whales. So keep an eye out.
Insider’s Tip: Bathe Fido at the self-serve dog-washing station in the parking lot.
Leadbetter Beach

Also part of the ‘downtown’ waterfront area, Leadbetter is a curving slice of soft white sand that’s perfect for sunbathing. Dramatic cliffs shelter the western end of the beach, where you can spot beginner surfers practice the art of catching waves. It’s also fun to watch the joggers, cyclists, and students; the beach is located close to Santa Barbara City College.
Insider’s Tip: Walk up to Shoreline Park and follow the paved path for a birds-eye view of the Channel Islands.
Carpinteria City Beach

Gently sloped and with a laid-back vibe, this beach is perfect for long strolls and toes-in-the-sand gatherings. There are restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, and the quirky beach town of Carpinteria has cute snack shacks and cafes. Stroll to neighboring Carpinteria State Beach for picturesque views from bluffs overlooking the ocean.
Insider’s Tip: Visit the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary, home to 100 adult seals which give birth to their cubs here every spring.
Mesa Lane Beach
Locals — and especially surfers — love the wild feel of Mesa Lane. Set in a quiet residential area (tourists have no idea it is here), the entrance to this narrow beach is via a steep flight of steps followed by a pathway lined with bougainvillea. Although never crowded, surfers carrying their boards flock here when the swell picks up. Rugged cliffs provide protection from the wind, adding to the feeling of privacy and seclusion.
Insider’s Tip: For walking or sunbathing, be sure to visit during low tide as the shoreline (and staircase) practically disappear at high tide.
Feature image courtesy of Viavado, iStock