Eastern Goleta Valley

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Eastern Goleta Valley's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Goleta Beach
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along Goleta Beach and enjoy the serene ocean views. Grab a coffee from a local café as you soak in the morning sun.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a beachside picnic with friends or family. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline.

evening
:

Watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean for a perfect ending to your day. Dine at a nearby restaurant to savor local seafood.

day 2
Bike Ride through Santa Barbara
morning
:

Rent a bike and ride the scenic coastal path towards Santa Barbara. Experience the refreshing ocean breeze as you pedal along the beach.

afternoon
:

Stop by the Santa Barbara Mission to appreciate its history and architecture. Lunch at a charming café in the Funk Zone is a must.

evening
:

Return if you have time to catch a local event or concert in the city. Wind down with ice cream from a famous local parlor.

day 3
Nature Walk in Ellwood Mesa
morning
:

Explore the trails of Ellwood Mesa, where you’ll discover beautiful landscapes and local flora. Look for monarch butterflies during certain seasons.

afternoon
:

Picnic under the shade of the trees and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Take a short hike to the bluffs for stunning coastal views.

evening
:

Relax in the evening with a book or some quiet time at the beach. Consider dining at a seafood place known for its ocean-fresh dishes.

day 4
Wine Tasting in the Valley
morning
:

Visit local vineyards in the Valley for a guided tour and tasting. Learn about the wine-making process and savor some samples.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a vineyard with outdoor seating. The picturesque views make it a perfect spot for relaxation.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a gourmet restaurant featuring wine pairings. Relish the flavors of your favorite selections.

day 5
Day at Goleta Beach Park
morning
:

Settle in at Goleta Beach Park where you can enjoy volleyball or sunbathing. Bring your beach gear and let the fun begin.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely swim or engage in beach games with family or friends. Grab lunch from a food truck nearby for a tasty treat.

evening
:

General beach activities continue until sunset, so stay and enjoy the evening glow. Head out for casual dining at a nearby grill.

day 6
Kayaking the Coast
morning
:

Start your day with kayaking along the Goleta coastline. Look out for boats and sea life as you navigate the waters.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a local café before heading to explore more coastal spots. Don’t forget your camera for picturesque views.

evening
:

Unwind after a busy day with a casual beach bonfire with s'mores. It’s a great way to end your outdoor adventure.

day 7
Hiking in the Mountains
morning
:

Get an early start to hike the nearby mountains for breathtaking views of the valley. Bring plenty of water and snacks for energy.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the summit and enjoy a well-deserved break while taking in the panoramic scenery. Descend slowly and capture photographs along the way.

evening
:

Return to Goleta and dine at a cozy eatery. Relish your hiking stories over delicious comfort food.

day 8
Visit UCSB
morning
:

Explore the University of California, Santa Barbara campus for its stunning architecture and gardens. Visit the UCSB Lagoon for a lovely morning walk.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a student-favored spot to taste local flavors. Wander through the campus bookstores for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Catch a cultural event or show at the UCSB performing arts theater. Wrap up the evening with local craft cocktails at a nearby bar.

day 9
Surfing Adventure
morning
:

Kick off your day with a surfing lesson at one of Goleta's surf spots. Enjoy the thrill of catching waves under expert guidance.

afternoon
:

Grab a bite at a beachside café and discuss your surfing experience. Relax on the beach while watching others ride the waves.

evening
:

Take part in a beach clean-up as the sun sets, giving back to the environment. Conclude your day with a casual dinner at a seafood joint.

day 10
Sunset at Gaviota State Park
morning
:

Spend the morning hiking the trails at Gaviota State Park, enjoying the diverse wildlife. Prepare for a day filled with exploration.

afternoon
:

Relax on the beach and have a packed lunch while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Consider swimming if the weather permits.

evening
:

Stay for an enchanting sunset that paints the sky with colors. End the day with a charming restaurant meal nearby.

Discover Eastern Goleta Valley

Read more in our Eastern Goleta Valley 2024 Travel Guide.

Eastern Goleta Valley Travel Guide