Upper Riviera
Santa Barbara
Visit Upper Riviera
Popular places to visit
Santa Barbara Zoo
Why not meet the animals who call Santa Barbara Zoo home during your holiday in Santa Barbara? Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Santa Barbara Harbor
Explore the waterfront in Santa Barbara with a trip to Santa Barbara Harbor. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
See the best views of Santa Barbara and enjoy a stunning variety of architectural styles at the city’s historic courthouse.
Upper State Street
During your visit to Santa Barbara, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Upper State Street. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its cosy cafes.
Butterfly Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Butterfly Beach during your travels in Santa Barbara? Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Stearns Wharf
Explore the waterfront of Stearns Wharf and enjoy other activities such as cycling in Santa Barbara. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Things to do
Santa Barbara: Full-Day 7-Speed Bike Rental with Area Map
Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board Rental
Santa Barbara: Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop
Top hotels in Upper Riviera
El Encanto Santa Barbara
Lovely resort with beautiful grounds
Reviewed on 26 Dec 2025
Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn
Courtesy staff. Everyone nice.
Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026
Hotel Santa Barbara
Location, staff, and the immaculate accommodations.
Reviewed on 8 Jan 2026
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
I thought the room was fine but my wife thought it was really small and dated. You could tell that the walls had been painted several times , but overall it looked clean and well maintained. I recommend getting a room on the pool side as the landscaping is actually pretty nice and very tropical and ...
Reviewed on 7 Jan 2026
Inn By The Harbor
Liked that it was close to the beach and other areas
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
Sandpiper Lodge
4th stay at the lodge. Stayed in the family room this time. clean, comfy and good space. Nice management.
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Upper Riviera
Laguna
Laguna might not have many top sights, but Presidio Santa Barbara and Lobero Theater are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Upper East
While visiting Upper East, you might make a stop by sights like Mission Santa Barbara and Santa Barbara Natural History Museum.
Eastside
While Eastside isn't home to many top sights, Santa Barbara Zoo and East Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.
Mission Canyon
Visitors to Mission Canyon enjoy its gardens, and if you want to do some exploring, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is worth a stop.
Downtown Santa Barbara
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Presidio Santa Barbara might round out your trip.
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Historic Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Granada Theatre might round out your trip.
