Places to go in Santa Barbara, CA?

Hello,

I'm planning a weekend trip to Santa Barbara with my family. I've read that there are nice beaches there, so we will mostly stay in a hotel close to the beach. Hotel, beach, sand, checked.

Other than the beach, I want my family to enjoy something else. I will also practice with my DSLR camera. What are the places in Santa Barbara and surroundings that I shouldn't miss? Any Shops, parks and scenic places do you recommend? I will be bringing my truck so slight off-road is not a problem.

Thanks in advance.

 

there is not much to do here...down town there is the peir and beaches

 

There's actually a lot to do here... (I've lived here for 18 years)
The Zoo is amazing for its size, complete with a little train ride the kids love.
Drive up Gibraltar Road and then along Camino Cielo, for views of the city and coast 4000' below and the immense mountain wilderness that occupies most of the northern part of the county.
If it's foggy, just drive over San Marcos Pass, for sun, warmth and a fine little river. And wine country and little cute towns if that's your thing. (Or say you're catering to your wife's needs!)
Shopping, people-watching, restaurants and the like are abundant on State Street.
Rent sea kayaks at the downtown beaches if conditions are good.
Lots of cultural things, museums and things, if that's of interest.
Great hiking trails right behind town - up shady canyons with nice creeks.
And more. No shortage of interesting things to do!

 

Lots of interesting things indeed!
I'll pretty much wanna check those trails. Where can I get more info about them? Can you point me to a website?

Thanks!

 

Pismo beach (beach driving)..Solvang(touristy).. Its beautiful up there. the downtown is really neat. also check out the mission.

 

you could go up to red rock. its pretty fun up ther, hiking trails,swimming.

 

For lots of hiking info, you can go to http://santabarbarahikes.com/
Maps are available for purchase at 2 or 3 downtown hiking/biking shops.
Good luck in your visit! Hope the fog clears early!

 

go to Ojai for a day. it's about 30 min away from SB. great small town w/ lots of hiking. i live there