Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara, CA, is a city that has something for everyone – and their dog. With a mild Mediterranean climate, beautiful dog-friendly beaches, world-class wineries, and a trendy art and food scene, it’s no wonder why Santa Barbara is often referred to as the “American Riviera.”

We visited Santa Barbara in April 2024 and before our vacation was even over we were planning our return. This coastal destination has a small town feel with beach town vibes but all the attractions of a city with plenty of dog welcoming activities to fill a weekend and beyond.

I assembled this guide with everything you need to know to plan a dog-friendly trip to Santa Barbara, from how to get there and where to stay, to eateries and activities – some we did and some I’d like to do on our next visit.

how to get to santa barbara

By Car

Santa Barbara is easily accessible by car via the US-101, a scenic route that runs along the California coast. It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Los Angeles and roughly 4 to 5 hours from San Francisco.

By Plane

Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is located just 8 miles from downtown Santa Barbara and offers flights from major cities. Many airlines allow pets to fly in the cabin, but be sure to check specific airline policies and book in advance.

By Train

Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner offers a scenic and pet-friendly way to travel to Santa Barbara. Pets are allowed on board for a small fee and with some restrictions, and the journey offers breathtaking coastal views.

What to Expect from the Weather

Santa Barbara boasts a Mediterranean climate with mild, sunny weather year-round. Here’s what to expect by season:

• Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. Light layers are recommended.

• Summer (June to August): Warm and dry with temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Pack sunscreen and comfortable clothing.

• Fall (September to November): Pleasant temperatures similar to spring. Light jackets and layers are ideal.

• Winter (December to February): Cooler but still mild, with temperatures from 40°F to 65°F. A warm jacket and rain gear might be needed.

where to stay in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a variety of dog-friendly accommodations, including the Kimpton Canary Hotel in downtown Santa Barbara, where pets are welcomed with no additional fees and offered beds, bowls, and treats at check-in. The Riviera Beach House, located near the beach and the Funk Zone, provides pet-friendly rooms and easy access to dog-friendly dining spots like The Lark and Loquita. For a luxurious experience, the Hotel Californian offers stylish, pet-friendly rooms and proximity to the waterfront, making it a perfect base for exploring the city’s dog-friendly attractions. Explore additional options below and book your stay. *The links below are affiliate links that I make a small commission on when you book. I always appreciate your support.

1. Hotel Milo

Hotel Milo is a charming beachfront hotel that welcomes dogs of all sizes. The hotel offers pet-friendly rooms and amenities such as pet beds, bowls, and treats. The location is ideal for morning and evening walks along the waterfront, providing plenty of grassy areas for your dog to explore.

Address: 202 W Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Average Nightly Rate: $250-$400
Pet Fee: $50 per stay
Weight/Breed Restrictions: None
Nearby Grass: Waterfront and beach areas

2. Kimpton Canary Hotel

Kimpton Canary Hotel offers luxury accommodations in the heart of Santa Barbara. Dogs are treated like VIP guests with no additional pet fees. The hotel provides pet beds, bowls, and treats. There are several nearby parks and green spaces perfect for your dog to enjoy.

Address: 31 W Carrillo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Average Nightly Rate: $300-$500
Pet Fee: None
Weight/Breed Restrictions: None
Nearby Grass: Nearby parks and green spaces

3. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

This luxurious resort offers expansive grounds for you and your dog to explore. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara provides pet-friendly rooms with amenities such as pet beds, bowls, and treats. The resort’s beautiful setting along the coast offers plenty of space for your dog to roam.

Address: 8301 Hollister Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93117
Average Nightly Rate: $500-$800
Pet Fee: $150 per stay
Weight/Breed Restrictions: 50 lbs maximum
Nearby Grass: Expansive resort grounds

4. Hotel Californian

Hotel Californian combines luxury with a prime location near the Funk Zone. This stylish hotel welcomes dogs and provides amenities like pet beds, bowls, and treats. The nearby park areas offer plenty of space for walks.

Address: 36 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Average Nightly Rate: $400-$600
Pet Fee: $150 per stay
Weight/Breed Restrictions: None
Nearby Grass: Nearby park areas

5. Riviera Beach House

Riviera Beach House is situated in a convenient downtown location, close to the beach and parks. The hotel offers pet-friendly rooms and amenities like pet beds, bowls, and treats. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore the city with their dog.

Address: 121 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Average Nightly Rate: $250-$450
Pet Fee: $75 per stay
Weight/Breed Restrictions: None
Nearby Grass: Waterfront park areas

6. Hyatt Centric Santa Barbara

Located along the waterfront, the Hyatt Centric offers pet-friendly accommodations with easy access to beachside parks. The hotel provides pet beds, bowls, and treats, making it a comfortable stay for your dog.

Address: 1111 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Average Nightly Rate: $200-$350
Pet Fee: $100 per stay
Weight/Breed Restrictions: 50 lbs maximum
Nearby Grass: Waterfront park areas

Where to eat in santa barbara

Santa Barbara has a pretty great food scene and many of the restaurants have dog-friendly patios, whether you’re in the mood for casual bites, fine dining, or something in between. Here’s a selection of top dog-friendly spots around town:

1. Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company – A relaxed brewery with a spacious, dog-friendly patio, perfect for enjoying craft beers and casual bites.

2. The Brewhouse – Known for its warm, welcoming vibe, this local favorite offers a dog-friendly outdoor area and a diverse menu, including comfort food and craft brews.

3. Lama Dog Tap Room – Located in the Funk Zone, Lama Dog has a dog-friendly atmosphere where you can sample a rotating selection of craft beers and enjoy food from local food trucks.

4. The Cruisery – A lively spot on State Street with a dog-friendly patio, offering craft beers, cocktails, and a menu filled with pub favorites. They even have a “dog bar” at their entrance that’s a row of several water bowls for all their furry customers.

5. Third Window Brewing Co – Situated in The Mill, this brewery has a dog-friendly outdoor patio where you can enjoy innovative beers in a laid-back setting.

6. Louie’s California Bistro – Set in the historic Victorian Upham Hotel, Louie’s offers Californian cuisine with a peaceful, dog-friendly patio surrounded by lush greenery.

7. Arigato Sushi – A popular sushi spot on State Street with a dog-friendly outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying fresh sushi and sashimi with your pup.

8. The Lark – A trendy, dinner-only restaurant in the Funk Zone, The Lark welcomes dogs on its stylish outdoor patio, making it a great spot for an evening out.

9. Loquita – Another Funk Zone gem, Loquita serves up Spanish-inspired cuisine and offers a dog-friendly outdoor dining area that’s perfect for a chic dinner.

10. Goat Tree – Located at the Hotel Californian, this casual café is dog-friendly and known for its great kale Caesar salad, pastries, and relaxed vibe.

11. The Dining Room and Terrace Restaurant at El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel – Offering one of the best views in town, this upscale dining spot welcomes dogs on its terrace, making it a perfect place for a luxurious meal. This is definitely a splurge meal.

12. Los Agaves – Enjoy flavorful Mexican cuisine at this popular spot, which offers a dog-friendly outdoor seating area.

13. Scarlett Begonia – Famous for its irresistible cinnamon buns, this café’s dog-friendly outdoor patio is charmingly decorated, making it a great spot for brunch.

14. Lucky Penny – Known for delicious pizza and beer, Lucky Penny offers a dog-friendly patio where you can enjoy a casual, tasty meal.

15. Stonehouse at San Ysidro – Set in a historic building with beautiful outdoor seating, Stonehouse is dog-friendly and offers an elegant dining experience. This was our favorite meal of the trip. We went for a special occasion and the bill reflected that, but the ambiance, the food, and the service were immaculate. They even have a dog menu.

16. Dart Coffee – A cozy coffee shop with a dog-friendly patio, Dart Coffee is perfect for grabbing a morning brew with your pup by your side.

17. Hook & Press Donuts – Satisfy your sweet tooth at this dog-friendly spot known for its creative and delicious donuts. Don’t sleep on their breakfast sandwiches.

18. Oliver’s – A vegan restaurant in Montecito with a peaceful, dog-friendly outdoor seating area, ideal for a healthy, plant-based meal.

19. Third Window Brewery – Another great option for beer lovers, this brewery in The Mill offers a dog-friendly outdoor space where you can relax and enjoy craft beers.

20. Helena Avenue Bakery – Is a beloved spot located in the heart of the Funk Zone. Known for its artisanal breads, pastries, and farm-to-table fare, this bakery offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere that perfectly complements its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their patio is a bit small, but dog-friendly and expect this place to be busy early, especially on weekends.

dog-friendly activities in Santa Barbara

go wine tasting in the funk zone

The Funk Zone is a vibrant neighborhood known for its urban wineries, art galleries, and boutique shops. In the Funk Zone, you can kick back on Santa Barbara Winery’s charming outdoor patio, check out Kunin Winery just a few blocks from the beach, or visit Municipal Winemakers located in a former dive shop. Dogs are also welcome at Jamie Slone Wines in the historic El Paseo outdoor shopping plaza. They specialize in small-production, handcrafted wines and have a fenced-in, open-air tasting room. Also in El Paseo is the tasting room for Grassini Family Vineyards, which has water bowls and treats for visiting mutts. Spend the afternoon sampling local wines, enjoying restaurant patios (some of our favorites are in this area!), and exploring the eclectic area with your dog by your side.

take an off-leash walk at Douglas family preserve

The Douglas Family Preserve is a 70-acre park offering off-leash trails with stunning ocean views. This preserve is a favorite among dog owners for its expansive, open spaces where dogs can roam freely. Enjoy a leisurely walk with your dog while taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery. Parking is available at the trailhead.

Douglas Family Preserve was established to preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of a significant coastal area in Santa Barbara. Originally acquired in the early 1990s through the efforts of local residents and conservation groups, the land was designated as a preserve to safeguard it from development and to provide the community with a protected space for recreation and environmental education. The preserve’s creation reflects a commitment to maintaining open spaces that contribute to the quality of life in the area and protect native habitats.

Douglas Family Preserve offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands, and it overlooks the nearby dog-friendly Hendry’s Beach. From the preserve’s bluff-top trails, you can enjoy stunning vistas that stretch across the coastline, with Hendry’s Beach visible below. Hendry’s Beach, also known as Arroyo Burro Beach, is a popular spot for dog lovers, featuring a designated off-leash area where dogs can play freely in the sand and surf. The proximity of Douglas Family Preserve to Hendry’s Beach allows to combine both hiking and romping on the beach. The gentle slope from the preserve to the beach offers a seamless transition from elevated views to sandy shores, ensuring a rewarding outdoor experience for both you and your dog.This is about a 20 minute walk or there is parking available at the beach if you’d prefer to drive over.

romp off-leash on arroyo beach

Arroyo Burro Beach, commonly known as Hendry’s Beach, is a popular dog-friendly beach because it’s the only official beach in the area where dogs are allowed off-leash in designated areas. Your dog can enjoy playing in the surf and sand while you take in the beautiful coastal views. Parking is available in the beach lot, and there is a bath station toward the back of the parking lot that is pay-by-the-minute.

When you first enter the beach from the parking lot, you’re entering the leashed dog area. you’ll need to walk down the coast to your left to get to the off-leash area. At the time when we visited there was quite a treacherous water crossing where our legs got soaked and the current was pretty strong, so dress appropriately, pick up small dogs, and check the tide levels. We visited during high tide and there wasn’t a lot of beach for Rue to play on and as you can tell from the photos it’s also a bit rocky.

Hit up all the photo-worthy spots around the city

Capture memorable moments with your dog at Santa Barbara’s top photo spots. The Chromatic Gate is a colorful, iconic landmark perfect for vibrant photos. The stairs at Paseo Nuevo provide a charming backdrop, and the Arlington Theatre’s historic architecture makes for a great shot.

Other must-visit spots include Chase Palm Park, City Hall, Old Mission Santa Barbara, Hotel Californian, and El Jardin Pequeno House. Visit our Best Photo Spots in Santa Barbara for more details.

walk Shoreline park

Shoreline Drive in Santa Barbara is a scenic coastal route that stretches approximately 1.5 miles along the waterfront, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Barbara coastline. This picturesque drive provides access to several popular attractions and activities. Along Shoreline Drive, you’ll find beautiful beaches like Hendry’s Beach, where visitors can enjoy dog-friendly areas and beachfront fun.

The drive also leads to the Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf, where you can explore shops, restaurants, and enjoy a leisurely stroll with ocean views. For those interested in outdoor activities, the nearby bike path and walking trails offer a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the area.

explore the santa barbara botanic garden

Santa Barbara’s Botanic Garden, a captivating 78-acre space dedicated to California’s native plants, invites visitors to explore its rich diversity of ecosystems. Entry to the garden is priced at $16 for adults, $10 for children aged 2-17, and is free for children under 2. Parking is conveniently provided in a dedicated lot near the entrance, making access to the garden easy and stress-free. Once inside, visitors can wander through several distinct ecosystems, each offering unique plant life and scenic beauty.

The garden features a lush Redwood Forest with towering trees and a cool, shaded environment, a Chaparral Garden showcasing hardy, drought-tolerant plants native to California’s dry regions, and a Desert Garden that highlights the resilient flora of the state’s arid landscapes. The garden’s network of trails includes the peaceful Meadow Trail, which meanders through open spaces filled with colorful wildflowers, and the serene Mission Canyon Trail, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valley. Dogs are welcome on a leash, allowing your furry besties to explore the garden’s diverse habitats and enjoy the tranquility of nature with you.

picnic on the lawn at old mission santa barbara

Visiting the Old Mission Santa Barbara, often referred to as the “Queen of the Missions,” offers a rich glimpse into California’s history and stunning architecture. Conveniently located at 2201 Laguna Street, the mission provides ample parking in a designated lot adjacent to the historic site, making it easy for visitors to access. The mission’s grand facade and picturesque surroundings offer numerous photo opportunities, including the iconic twin bell towers and beautifully maintained gardens.

Among its notable features is the Rose Garden, a vibrant and fragrant space that showcases an array of colorful roses in full bloom, providing a perfect backdrop for photos and a peaceful spot to relax. We actually did a picnic here for my 31st Birthday and it was the perfect setting.

The mission’s historic buildings and serene grounds make it a must-visit destination for those interested in architecture, history, and photography.

Other dog-friendly activities for next time

1. Visit Stearns Wharf

Stroll along Stearns Wharf, a historic pier with dog-friendly restaurants and shops. Enjoy seafood with your dog at one of the pet-friendly eateries while taking in the ocean views. The wharf offers a unique blend of dining, shopping, and scenic beauty.

2. Hike Rattlesnake Canyon Trail

Rattlesnake Canyon Trail offers a moderately challenging hike with beautiful scenery and a creek. The trail is popular among hikers and dog owners alike. It’s a great way to enjoy Santa Barbara’s natural beauty while getting some exercise. Parking is available at the trailhead.

3. Explore the Urban Wine Trail

Discover more dog-friendly wineries and tasting rooms in downtown Santa Barbara. The Urban Wine Trail offers a convenient way to sample a variety of local wines. Many of the tasting rooms welcome dogs, making it easy to enjoy wine tasting with your pet.

4. Relax at Elings Park

Elings Park is a large, versatile park with off-leash areas, hiking trails, and stunning views. The park’s expansive grounds provide plenty of space for your dog to run and play. It’s a great spot for a relaxed afternoon outdoors. Parking is available on-site.

5. Take a Sunset Cruise

Several boat tours in Santa Barbara allow well-behaved dogs on board. A sunset cruise offers a unique way to see the coastline and marine life while enjoying the company of your dog. It’s a memorable experience that showcases Santa Barbara’s natural beauty.

6. Andree Clark Bird Refuge

Near Montecito, located at 34a Los Patos Way, in an unassuming neighborhood is the Andree Clark Bird Refuge. It’s tranquil and filled with all different kinds of birds and viewing points for photo ops.

7. Rent a bike and dog-friendly sidecar from Mad Dogs & Englishmen Bike Shop

Also in Montecito, Mad Dogs Bike Shop offers a unique and fun way to explore the area with your furry friend by your side. Specializing in stylish, high-quality bikes, this shop provides the option to rent a dog-friendly sidecar, allowing you to bring your dog along for the ride in comfort and style. The sidecars are designed with safety and enjoyment in mind, making it easy to take in the scenic beauty of Montecito while your dog enjoys the fresh air.

Santa Barbara is a fantastic destination for dog lovers, offering a wide range of activities and amenities to ensure both you and your furry friend have a memorable trip. From scenic walks and beach romps to wine tasting and historic sites, there’s something for every dog and their human to enjoy.

Let us know if you have any questions about planning your trip to Santa Barbara or if you have any other recommendations!

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