Santa Barbara on a Budget: Where To Stay, What To Do and When To Go

Near Motel 6 Golita

• Goleta Beach Park (free, reservations $15): Just a short drive away. This park has a sandy beach, picnic tables, BBQs, chow at The Ellwood and even a long pier where you can go fishing. At Goleta Beach, you can find a huge variety of food. Service ranges from vegan at Natural Café and backyard bowls, to burgers at The Nugget Bar and Grill to Italian at Ca’ Dario. It is a great spot to enjoy a sunset or have a relaxing afternoon by the ocean. It is popular with visitors that want to kayak or paddle board since the Paddle Sports Center is right there and has the rentals needed to get on the water or the biking path! Rentals are between 25 and 80 bucks depending on type and time. You can also find Kayak, Paddleboard and biking tours through the link at the top of this guide!

• South Coast Railroad Museum ($0) – This small but interesting museum is all about the history of trains in the area. You can see an old train depot from 1901 and even take a miniature train ride — great for kids and train lovers!

• If you are in Santa Barbara between November and February, you must check out Goleta Monarch Butterfly Grove at Ellwood Mesa ($0). During winter, thousands of monarch butterflies cover the trees, making it look like something out of a fairy tale. The trails are easy to walk, so it is a great spot for families, nature lovers and anyone who wants cool photos. Even if you come when the butterflies are not there, the area still has awesome ocean views and peaceful hiking trails.

Near Motel 6 Carpenteria:

• Carpinteria State Beach (if camping $40+): This beach is known for its gentle waves, terraced bluffs and a chill beach community. This makes it a great spot for swimming, surf fishing or just relaxing on the sand. If you explore the tide pools, you might even spot some starfish or sea anemones! There are even campsites that are open year-round and reservations can be made through reservecalifornia.com. RV rentals can be made through 101 RV Rentals.

• Carpinteria Valley Museum of History: Want to learn a little about the local area and the town’s past? This free museum hosts monthly events and shares cool stories and artifacts from Carpinteria’s history. This includes exhibits about the Chumash Native Americans and early settlers.

• • The Carpinteria Tar Pits ($10 parking) are one of five natural asphalt lake areas in the world. They are older than the La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles. It is a good place for families and a 30–60-minute stroll during low tide (morning and evening) or just relax since the beach isn’t usually crowded. There is also a walking path along the cliffs. Remember, tar is sticky, so try not to touch.

Near Lemon Tree Inn

• Santa Barbara Botanic Garden ($20/ticket) – A short drive away, this beautiful garden has walking trails surrounded by native California plants and trees, such as redwoods, for both casual and experienced trekkers. The Tipton Trail is about 1.3 miles long and has amazing views from the top of downtown Santa Barbara, the Channel Islands and the Santa Ynez Mountains. The property is a peaceful place to explore nature and snap some great photos.

• The Old Santa Barbara Mission (<$20/ticket) - often called the "Queen of the Missions," is a breathtaking historical landmark that blends Spanish colonial architecture with stunning gardens and ocean views. Founded in 1786, it remains an active parish. It offers visitors a glimpse into California’s early history through its museum, 18th-century artifacts and beautifully preserved church.

• Mission Historical Park (free) – Right next to the famous Santa Barbara Mission, this park is home to a huge rose garden and stunning views of the city. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing walk or a picnic under the trees.

Near Mar Monte Hotel

• East Beach: You do not have to go far to enjoy one of Santa Barbara’s best beaches! This spot is great for sunbathing, beach volleyball or just enjoying the ocean breeze. Often there are little to no waves, so it’s a good place to swim. There’s also a bike path nearby if you want to rent a bike and ride along the coastline. My oldest daughter and I always make it a point to rent bikes and ride them.

• Santa Barbara Zoo ($25-$35) – Just a short walk away, the zoo is home to over 500 animals, including giraffes, lions and penguins. Kids love the interactive exhibits, and the views of the ocean from the zoo are amazing.

• The Funk Zone, Santa Barbara’s trendiest neighborhood, packed with street art, wine tasting rooms, craft breweries and unique boutiques in converted warehouses. Located just a few blocks from the beach, it’s the perfect spot to sip local wines, grab a bite at a hip café and soak in the city’s creative, laid-back vibe.]

The “Strip” of Santa Barbara

• State Street is the heart of Santa Barbara, known for its lively mix of shopping, dining and entertainment set against beautiful Spanish-style architecture. Stretching from Uptown to the waterfront. It’s lined with trendy boutiques, highly rated local ice cream shops like McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams, big-name stores, art galleries and some of the city’s best restaurants and cafés. The pedestrian-friendly State Street Promenade in the downtown area makes it perfect for strolling, people-watching and soaking in the city’s laid-back vibe. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, catching live music or browsing local shops, State Street is where Santa Barbara’s charm comes to life.

• Santa Barbara Certified Farmers' Market: Held every Tuesday evening on the 500 and 600 blocks of State Street, this market features local farmers offering fresh produce, flowers and artisanal goods. It's a great opportunity to support local agriculture and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

• 1st Thursday Art Walk: On the first Thursday of each month, from 5 pm to 8 pm, downtown Santa Barbara transforms into an artistic haven. Galleries, shops and cultural venues open their doors to the public, showcasing the visual and performing arts. The event is free and encourages community engagement with the local art scene.

• There is no shortage of State Street events. For a full list and calendar, visit the downtown website.

• One block up East Sola Street from State Street is Alameda Park. This is one of Santa Barbara’s best free spots for families, featuring Kid’s World, a massive wooden playground with castles, tunnels and slides that keep kids entertained for hours. Spanning two blocks, the park also has picnic tables, large grassy areas and beautiful trees, making it perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is a peaceful oasis found in the same area as Alameda Park. Filled with lush gardens, a koi pond and winding pathways perfect for a relaxing stroll. With its shady picnic areas and a sensory garden designed for the visually impaired, it’s a beautiful and serene spot for nature lovers of all ages.

Near Motel 6 Goleta

• The Habit Burger Grill is famous for its flame-grilled burgers.

• For fresh seafood, check out Nikka Fish Market and Grill, where you can get everything from fish tacos to grilled salmon.

Near Motel 6 Carpenteria

• Teddy's By The Sea serves up delicious seafood, including clam chowder and fish & chips. Price is mid-range. It has great reviews and I can say this, everything from the ceviche to the salads to the chicken sandwich is a home run.

• Lao Thai Restaurant has amazing Thai food, from Pad Thai to spicy curries. Thailand is close to my heart as I have family there. Trust me, if you like Thai food or are a fan of new experiences, you will leave nothing to clean off the plate.

Near Lemon Tree Inn

• Los Agaves is a must-visit and known for its delicious tacos and enchiladas. Great service, good portions, excellent taste, free chips.

• Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro has amazing French pastries and sandwiches. Skip the coffee chains. Start your morning here. My daughter loves their lattes with oat milk.

Near Mar Monte Hotel

If you’re looking for a fancy but casual dining experience, Convivo Restaurant and Bar serves incredible Italian-inspired coastal food. Wood-fired pizzas, wood-grilled steaks, housemade pasta, local and Italian wines. Brunch on the weekends and happy hour 3 pm–6 pm daily. There is no excuse to pass up Convivo.