Goleta CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Goleta, California.
1. Ellwood Mesa Butterfly Grove
SEASONAL MONARCH MIGRATION
Ellwood Mesa Butterfly Grove is a natural sanctuary where thousands of monarch butterflies migrate each winter. Visitors can walk along serene trails to witness these colorful insects clustering on eucalyptus trees from November through February. The grove also offers beautiful coastal views and is part of a larger preserve with hiking trails.
2. Goleta Beach Park
COASTAL RECREATION HUB
Goleta Beach Park offers a quarter-mile of sandy shoreline perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and various watersports. The park features a 1,500-foot fishing pier, volleyball courts, and picnic areas with BBQ grills. Families particularly enjoy the playground equipment and the grassy areas for games and relaxation.
3. Haskell's Beach
SECLUDED COASTAL GEM
Haskell's Beach is a less-crowded coastal retreat offering pristine sands and excellent surfing conditions. The beach is accessible via a scenic trail that winds through natural vegetation and offers stunning views of the Pacific. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness, free parking, and the chance to spot dolphins playing in the waves.
4. Rancho La Patera & Stow House
HISTORIC RANCH ESTATE
Rancho La Patera & Stow House is a preserved 1873 farmhouse that offers a glimpse into Goleta's ranching heritage. The historic site includes beautiful gardens, vintage farm equipment, and the Goleta Valley Historical Society's exhibits. Guided tours provide insight into the region's agricultural past and the Stow family's influence on the development of Goleta.
5. South Coast Railroad Museum
RAILWAY HISTORY SHOWCASE
The South Coast Railroad Museum celebrates the rich railway history that shaped the development of the region. Visitors can explore restored railroad artifacts, climb aboard vintage rail cars, and even take rides on a miniature train. The museum offers educational programs and special events that highlight the importance of rail transportation in California's growth.
6. Ice in Paradise
YEAR-ROUND ICE RECREATION
Ice in Paradise is a state-of-the-art ice skating facility featuring two regulation-sized rinks for year-round enjoyment. The center offers public skating sessions, figure skating lessons, hockey leagues, and special events for all ages. This cool escape provides a surprising contrast to the sunny California climate and serves as a community gathering place.
7. The Bistro
UPSCALE CASUAL DINING
The Bistro offers an elevated dining experience featuring American cuisine with Mediterranean influences in a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its quality ingredients, attentive service, and vegetarian-friendly options that cater to diverse palates. Diners particularly enjoy the outdoor patio seating and the well-curated wine selection showcasing local vintages.
8. Gaviota Wind Caves Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN HIKE
The Gaviota Wind Caves Trail is a 2.1-mile hiking path featuring unique wind-carved sandstone formations and spectacular ocean views. The moderately challenging trail winds through beautiful California native plants including wild mustard and Queen Anne's Lace. Hikers who reach the caves are rewarded with natural windows framing breathtaking vistas of the coastline and Channel Islands.
9. Santa Barbara Blueberries
PICK-YOUR-OWN FRUIT FARM
Santa Barbara Blueberries offers a delightful agricultural experience where visitors can hand-pick fresh blueberries during the harvest season. The family-friendly farm maintains sustainable growing practices and provides buckets for collecting the sweet, organic berries. Beyond blueberry picking, the farm has a charming market selling homemade preserves and other locally-sourced products.
10. Folded Hills Farmstead
RUSTIC FARM EXPERIENCE
Folded Hills Farmstead combines a working farm, vineyard, and tasting room offering visitors an authentic agricultural experience. Guests can pet farm animals, sample estate-grown wines, and purchase fresh produce and artisanal goods. The picturesque property embraces sustainable farming practices while providing educational opportunities about local agriculture and winemaking.
11. Circle Bar B Guest Ranch & Stables
WESTERN HORSEBACK ADVENTURES
Circle Bar B Guest Ranch & Stables offers authentic horseback riding experiences through the scenic Santa Ynez Mountains and along coastal trails. The ranch provides guided trail rides suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to advanced riders. Visitors appreciate the well-trained horses, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to experience California's landscape from a unique perspective.
12. Angel Oak at Bacara
LUXURY OCEANFRONT DINING
Angel Oak at Bacara delivers a premium steakhouse experience with breathtaking ocean views at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara resort. The restaurant specializes in prime cuts of meat, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine collection featuring local and international selections. Diners enjoy the sophisticated ambiance, attentive service, and seasonal menu that highlights the best of California's coastal cuisine.
13. Coronado Butterfly Preserve
NATURAL BUTTERFLY HABITAT
Coronado Butterfly Preserve is a protected 9.3-acre habitat where thousands of monarch butterflies overwinter from November to February. The preserve features eucalyptus groves, meadows, and coastal sage scrub connected by a network of well-maintained walking trails. Visitors can observe the butterflies clustering in the trees while learning about conservation efforts to protect these iconic insects.
14. Campus Point
PREMIER SURFING SPOT
Campus Point is a renowned surfing location adjacent to the University of California Santa Barbara offering consistent waves suitable for various skill levels. The beach features a picturesque point break, soft sandy shores, and scenic cliffs that make it popular with both surfers and sunbathers. Visitors enjoy the relatively uncrowded atmosphere compared to other Santa Barbara area beaches, especially during weekdays.
15. Goleta Lemon Festival
CITRUS HERITAGE CELEBRATION
The Goleta Lemon Festival is an annual celebration held each September at Girsh Park honoring the region's citrus-growing heritage. The family-friendly event features lemon-themed food and drinks, live entertainment, carnival rides, and arts and crafts vendors. Visitors particularly enjoy the pie-eating contests, the classic car show, and sampling creative lemon-infused culinary creations from local restaurants.