Things To Do
in Isla Vista
Isla Vista is a small unincorporated community located in Santa Barbara County, California, near the University of California, Santa Barbara campus. It has a young population due to its proximity to the university and is known for its vibrant college town atmosphere. Isla Vista is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the south and is popular for its beach access and outdoor recreational activities.
The community also has a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops catering to the college student population.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early at Isla Vista Beach, soaking up the sun and taking in the ocean breeze. Bring a picnic for breakfast to enjoy on the sand.
After some sunbathing, explore the nearby shops for lunch or grab a smoothie from a local café. Spend the afternoon playing beach volleyball or frisbee with friends.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beach bonfire with s'mores and good company. Capture the picturesque view as the sky turns vibrant colors.
Rent a bike and ride along the scenic Coastal Path, enjoying the lovely ocean views. Stop by local eateries for a quick breakfast before hitting the trails.
Cycle through the picturesque State Street area, exploring boutiques and lunch spots. Make a pit stop at the Santa Barbara Harbor for some incredible views.
Return to Isla Vista just in time for dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Wind down with a stroll along the shore, listening to the sound of the waves.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant college town atmosphere with a strong sense of community.
- Proximity to the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), providing educational and cultural opportunities.
- Access to beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational activities, including surfing and biking.
- Rich diversity of restaurants, cafes, and shops catering to a wide variety of tastes.
- Mild coastal climate conducive to year-round outdoor activities.
- High cost of living and housing, making it less affordable for some residents.
- Heavy traffic and parking challenges, especially during the school year.
- Party culture that can lead to noise and disturbances for some residents.
- Limited job opportunities outside of seasonal and service industry positions.
- Occasional issues with overcrowding, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Best Activities in Isla Vista
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a game of beach volleyball on the sandy shores of Isla Vista Beach. The courts are often lively and a great way to socialize.
Explore Isla Vista and the nearby coastline on bike or scooter. There's a scenic bike path that runs along the beach.
Pack a lunch and relax in Depressions Park, which features ample green space for picnicking and enjoying the outdoors.
Take a hike along the Isla Vista bluffs for stunning ocean views and a chance to see local wildlife.
Catch some waves at one of the local surf spots. Beginner lessons and board rentals are often available.
Gather friends for a beach bonfire at night. Bring your own fire pit, or use designated areas for a cozy evening.
Join a beach yoga class to stretch and relax while enjoying the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Participate in local community events and festivals, fostering a sense of community while enjoying outdoor activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Isla Vista with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Isla Vista
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful beach park with stunning ocean views, ideal for sunset photography and capturing the natural beauty of the coastline.
The main beach in Isla Vista, known for its panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. A great spot for sunrise and sunset photos.
Located near the UCSB campus, this rocky point offers a picturesque backdrop for ocean views and is popular for surf photography.
A unique natural area with sand dunes and coastal vegetation, providing a perfect environment for nature photography.
A lookout point with sweeping views of the ocean and the Channel Islands in the distance, perfect for landscape photography.
A vibrant community space that often features local art installations against the backdrop of Isla Vista's unique architecture.
A small park that offers lush greenery and views of the surrounding hills, ideal for capturing nature and candid moments.
Food in Isla Vista
Isla Vista Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This substantial burrito typically contains a choice of protein, rice, beans, and fresh salsa. It can be found at several local taquerias, such as Freebirds World Burrito and Cantina.
Must-Try!
Isla Vista's proximity to the ocean ensures access to delectable, freshly-caught seafood. The local fish tacos, often served with a zesty slaw and chipotle crema, are a must-try. Look for these at institutions like Silvergreens and The Habit.
In this region known for its avocado orchards, dishes featuring this creamy fruit abound. The avocado toast at local cafes, like The Good Cup, brilliantly showcases the creamy simplicity of this local produce.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Isla Vista better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Saturday, this market offers an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat foods. It's a great place to explore local flavors and pick up fresh ingredients for a beachside picnic.
Isla Vista's street food culture thrives, with food trucks and stands offering diverse fare. Look out for taco trucks dishing up authentic Mexican street food and the Kebab Café's delectable Mediterranean-inspired offerings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Familiarize yourself with the local customs and traditions in Isla Vista, such as community events, clothing styles, and social gatherings. Being aware of these can help you blend in and show respect for the culture.
Isla Vista is a student community known for its lively atmosphere. However, it's important to be considerate about noise levels, especially late at night. Respecting the peace of your neighbors contributes to a more harmonious environment.
Participate in local events and volunteer opportunities to engage with the Isla Vista community. Showing interest in local issues and contributing positively is a great way to demonstrate respect and build relationships.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Isla Vista with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Isla Vista
Ensure a smooth experience
In Isla Vista, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice, particularly in the service industry. Customers typically tip waitstaff at restaurants between 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. Tipping is also common for delivery drivers, bartenders, and other service providers. The culture around tipping reflects appreciation for good service, and it is an integral part of the income for many service workers.
Payment practices in Isla Vista vary depending on the establishment. Most businesses accept credit and debit cards, and some may also accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Cash transactions are less common, but still accepted in many places. For students and residents, convenience in payment methods aligns with their lifestyle, often favoring quick and easy options. Additionally, many restaurants and cafes have been adapting to online ordering and contactless payment systems, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Isla Vista.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a wonderful time to visit Isla Vista. The weather is mild and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Expect blooming wildflowers and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beaches. Events like the Earth Day Festival are popular during this season.
Summer (June to August) is the peak season for Isla Vista, with warm temperatures and bustling beach crowds. Expect lively beach parties, music festivals, and various outdoor events. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices during this time.
Fall (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It's a great time for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere. Expect beautiful sunsets and a vibrant fall foliage. Events may include local harvest festivals and ARTwalk.
Winter (December to February) in Isla Vista is mild and relatively quiet. While it's not the best time for beach activities, it’s perfect for enjoying the local culture, as there are fewer crowds. Expect occasional rain and cooler temperatures, along with holiday events and winter festivities.
Isla Vista at Night
Hiking in Isla Vista
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular trail offering beautiful views of the Santa Barbara coastline and lush wilderness, perfect for a moderate hike.
Located just a short distance from Isla Vista, this park features a variety of trails that provide scenic views of the Stearns Wharf and the Pacific Ocean.
A picturesque hike that leads to a waterfall, ideal for those looking for a unique natural experience not far from Isla Vista.
A scenic coastal hike with views of the ocean and surrounding hills, great for a casual stroll or a more vigorous hike.
A trail that offers a mix of open spaces and shaded areas, perfect for hiking, jogging, or enjoying the outdoors.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Isla Vista through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Isla Vista by plane.
One of the busiest airports in the world, located approximately 95 miles southeast of Isla Vista, serves as a major gateway for international flights.
Located about 9 miles from Isla Vista, it is the nearest airport, offering a mix of domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 85 miles from Isla Vista, this airport is another option for domestic and some international travel.
Located approximately 115 miles southeast of Isla Vista, this airport provides access to both domestic and international destinations.
About 200 miles south of Isla Vista, it is a major airport serving the San Diego area with various international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Caucasian residents, often comprising a significant portion of the demographic.
A growing population that includes residents of various Hispanic backgrounds.
Includes various Asian ethnicities, contributing to the diversity of the community.
A smaller demographic in comparison to others, yet an important part of the community.
Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting the demographic complexity.
A very small demographic representing the indigenous peoples of the region.
Includes residents from various Pacific Island nations, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
The Soul of Isla Vista
Discover the essence of Isla Vista through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport played on the sandy beaches of Isla Vista, often played in casual settings as well as organized tournaments.
A team sport that combines elements of soccer and football, played on grassy fields and often organized through community groups or intramural leagues.
Isla Vista's proximity to the ocean makes surfing a favored activity, with many locals hitting the waves regularly.
A widely played sport in Isla Vista, with various pick-up games and organized leagues attracting participants of all skill levels.
Many residents enjoy running along the beachfront paths and through local parks, making it a popular recreational activity.
With many skateboard-friendly areas, Isla Vista has a vibrant skateboarding community, particularly among students.
Cycling is a common activity, with many students utilizing bikes for transportation and recreational rides around town.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Isla Vista.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Isla Vista boasts a plethora of eateries catering to vegetarians and vegans. From fresh salads and plant-based bowls at Silvergreens to the vegan-friendly options at Krishna Cafe, visitors will find numerous choices to indulge in.
Several establishments, such as The Habit and Sorriso Italiano, offer gluten-free alternatives on their menus, ensuring those with gluten restrictions can still savor delicious meals while visiting Isla Vista.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Isla Vista with these cultural adventures.
