Santa Barbara East Beach

East Beach is the archetypal Californian beach; the Pacific Ocean, golden sand, tall palm trees line the boulevard behind the beach, beach volleyball courts, lifeguard towers and the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains rising steeply behind the city. The beach here is home to many of Santa Barbara’s most upmarket hotels, however, development has been sympathetic so you won’t find any of the high-rise blocks that blot many of the finest beaches around the world.

Dominating the beachfront is the historic Cabrillo Bathhouse and Gym with its latino styling. The bathhouse is a somewhat incongruous mix of fitness centre, the East Beach Grill and an arts center. Beyond this is the expanse of grass and palms that make up Chase Palm Park with its paths and cycle-ways frequented by those cruising on bikes or skates along with joggers and walkers.

The whole East Beach area is full of family friendly things to do within a stone’s throw. For animal lovers there is the Santa Barbara Zoo and Andree Clark Bird Refuge; Chase Palm Park often holds events on the green and at the western end of the beach is Skater’s Point, a huge skate park.