Discover our favorite Santa Barbara beaches near Spanish Garden Inn

Arroyo Burro Beach

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Arroyo Burro Beach, also known as Hendry's Beach, is located at the mouth of Arroyo Burro Creek just below the Douglas Family Preserve. Many beach goers enjoy the tide pools, swimming, surfing, sun worshipping and dining at The Boathouse Restaurant. Also a dog lovers beach, many people bring their "best friend" to enjoy an off-leash romp among the waves. Parking is free.

Butterfly Beach

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Located in Montecito, this serene spot is perfectly located for beach goers to take in the beautiful, romantic Santa Barbara sunsets. The view of Stearn's Wharf is breathtaking and dolphins are often seen swimming by. With free beachfront and street parking, this is a great choice for a walk or picnic.

Leadbetter Beach

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Perfect for the beginning surfer - wind, kite or boar - for its low waves and frequent winds. Its prime location is up from West Beach, allowing people to avoid some of the crowds that frequent beaches to the east. A stretch of grassy lawn meets the sand along the shore with picnic tables and BBQ's for public use. The Shoreline Café offers classic beach cuisine with indoor and outdoor seating. Parking is available but not complimentary.

West Beach

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This wide stretch of sand in between Stearns Wharf and the harbor is a popular spot for sunbathers, various beach sport players and kayakers. Cabrillo Boulevard borders its north side, where several restaurants can be found. In the Harbor, overlooking the marina is a local seafood favorite, Brophy Bros., known for their clam chowder and shellfish. Parking is located either on Cabrillo Boulevard (90 minutes) or on a side street off the boulevard.

East Beach

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Famous for hosting a national volleyball tournament every year, East Beach is Mecca for the volleyball enthusiast. The bird refuge is across the street and a walking path runs along both sides of the main ocean thoroughfare, Cabrillo Blvd. On Sundays, an art show that lines nearly the entire length of the beach features local artists' work. A hidden breakfast and lunch spot is the East Beach Grill where you can kick back and watch the waves while dining. Parking is found on the street (90 minutes), side streets and in public parking with the first 75 minutes free and $1.50/hour.