1. Soak Up Sun and Sand at Goleta Beach
Comprising a park, slough, and wetlands, Goleta Beach is a manmade beach that was established in 1945. As a beach lover, I knew I needed to start my Goleta itinerary here!
No matter what time of the year you visit, you’ll be met with gentle breezes and a quiet surf, making it a laid-back place to enjoy your day with family and friends. Bring along a picnic basket as there are several designated picnic areas on the beachfront or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many bars and restaurants that line the place. Though surfing is not extremely popular on the waters here, you may catch a short wave. Other activities that are available include bodyboarding, water polo, kayaking, swimming, and beach volleyball. There’re also several horseshoe pits, a playground for younger visitors, and a pier to relax on.
5986 Sandspit Rd, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-568-2461
2. If You Love Nature Walks, Wander Through Goleta Butterfly Grove
Goleta Butterfly Grove, which can be found in the Ellwood Main Monarch Aggregation, is a popular attraction with both locals and visitors. The best time to visit is from November through February, when you can witness the amazing migration of Monarch butterflies to the grove. Visitors can spend the day there just exploring the large outdoor space, getting up close with the butterflies, and viewing several different species of birds. Adjacent to the grove, you will find the Ellwood Mesa, which is a 137-acre open space full of trails, a beach, and several amenities to assist you.
7559 Palos Verdes Dr, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-961-7571
3. Ride and Relax at Circle Bar B Guest Ranch & Stables
The Circle Bar B Guest Ranch & Stables has been owned and operated by the Brown family for four generations. Circle Bar B was established in 1939 as a way of sharing the area’s pristine beauty with people so that visitors can enjoy it as much as they do. The ranch now spans nearly 1,100 acres and has so much for you to see and experience; you can spend your time there walking the coastal mountain paradise, looking out for local flora and fauna, going horseback riding, or relaxing in the beautiful guest ranch. You can enjoy some delicious food and outstanding service as you make some unforgettable memories while in Goleta.
1800 Refugio Rd, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-968-1113
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
4. Witness Nature’s Magic at Coronado Butterfly Preserve
The Coronado Butterfly Preserve spans 9.3 acres and houses an array of woodlands, meadows, and eucalyptus groves. You will see and experience so much in this urban community treasure, from several species of wildlife and birds to one of the largest Monarch butterfly groves in the state. It’s a popular place to explore as you come across several native trees and plants during your adventure. Spend your time walking by the serene Devereux Creek, hiking through the innumerable trails, or having a picnic in the designated outdoor gathering areas. The trails line to several other sites such as Devereux Slough, Ellwood Shores coastal bluffs, and Goleta Monarch Grove.
495 Coronado Dr, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-966-4520
5. Step Into Local History at Rancho La Patera & Stow House
Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, the Rancho La Patera & Stow House is a historical landmark that was formerly the headquarters of Rancho La Patera. It is now home to the Goleta Historical Society, who invite visitors from all over to come explore and experience the amazing structure and surrounding grounds. You can go on a guided tour of the Stow House, learn interesting facts at the Visitor Interpretive Center, and get up close with the hands-on exhibits that are on display in the History Education Center. You’ll be able to see family photographs, period furniture, and hear stories about Sherman and Ida Stow and their family.
304 N Los Carneros Rd, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-681-7216
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
6. All Aboard for Fun at South Coast Railroad Museum
Focusing on the history, technology, and adventure of railroading, the South Coast Railroad Museum is housed in the Goleta Depot, which is a Southern Pacific Railroad train station that was established in 1901. The depot is listed on the California Registry of Historical Resources and the National Register of Historic Places; within the museum you’ll be able to see several photographs and artifacts about the depot, the railroad industry, and the many people behind it. Kids will enjoy learning about the railroad’s contributions to local history and its impact on rural communities across the United States. Additional features also include seeing model train sets, a Southern Pacific caboose, and going on a miniature train ride.
300 N Los Carneros Rd, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-964-3540
7. Explore Untouched Beauty at Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve
The Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve is one of the best current examples of a coastal-strand environment in Southern California. You’ll be able to explore a largely undisturbed stretch of coastal dunes, shoreline, and estuarine habitats. In the heart of the reserve, you’ll be able to explore Devereux Slough, which is a flooded tidal lagoon that forms seasonally before drying out to form hypersaline ponds and salt flats. It’s a wonderful place to visit for those who want to observe the area’s flora and fauna; ornithology aficionados should definitely come with a pair of binoculars as there are thousands of migratory birds that visit the reserve.
8. Sip and Savor Small-Batch Brews at Draughtsmen Aleworks
Draughtsmen Aleworks is a micro craft brewery and taproom in Goleta that is just ten minutes from downtown Santa Barbara. They specialize in small batch beers made with familiar IPAs and ales, as well as the occasional experimental brew. All their beers are approachable and have distinct taste that makes it a popular choice with the people of the community as well as visitors of the area. Great beers of theirs that you should try include the Perseverance light lager, Buxom Blonde blonde ale, and Nama Biru Japanese rice lager. Head on over to their tap room, which is often visited by food cart of all sorts and hosts events like trivia night and performances by local musicians.
53 Santa Felicia Dr, Goleta, CA 93117, Phone: 805-387-2577
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