7 Best Things to Do in Spring in Santa Barbara

Spring in Santa Barbara is pure magic. The days are warmer, the flowers burst into color, and there’s an undeniable energy in the air. If you’re looking for things to do in spring, you’ll find no shortage of activities to make your visit memorable. This season is packed with relaxation and the right amount of adventure, with plenty of activities to do. Ready to soak up the best Santa Barbara has to offer? Let’s go!

1. Explore Local Farmer’s Markets

Nothing beats the charm of a bustling farmer’s market. The smell of freshly baked goodies and the local artisans showcasing their crafts make it one of Santa Barbara’s top activities. Walk through the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market, where you’ll find the tastiest strawberries, avocados, locally made treats, and fresh produce available six days a week. Local farmers harvest this tasty, diverse, and nourishing produce from as far away as California’s Central Valley and as near as the foothills.

Stock up for a beach picnic, pick out souvenirs, or simply soak in the warm, welcoming community atmosphere — this is Santa Barbara at its best and most colorful.

2. Bike Along the Coast

Santa Barbara’s coastline is made for biking. Rent a scooter, or guests of The Eagle Inn can borrow one of the property’s bikes at no cost. Hit the Cabrillo Bike Path, which runs along the sparkling Pacific. Feel the salty air against your skin as you pedal past Stearns Wharf, the harbor, and the beaches you’ll want to snap many photos of. Stop for a coffee at a waterfront café or park your bike and dip your toes in the ocean.

If you want to add more adventure to your day, take a detour through Shoreline Park for unforgettable views you’ll always remember, or ride out to the Andree Clark Bird Refuge to catch sight of local wildlife. The path is mostly flat, perfect for a leisurely ride whether you’re a casual cyclist or a seasoned pro. Let time slow down, capture some memorable photos, and drink in the beauty of Santa Barbara’s coast.

3. Sip Through Wine Country

Spring is a known sweet spot for wine lovers. The vineyards are lush, the crowds are smaller, and the tastings are indulgent. Santa Ynez Valley, just a short drive away, offers rolling hills sprinkled with family-owned wineries that pour world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Hop on a wine tour or go through Los Olivos, Solvang, and Santa Ynez. Each tasting room has a unique charm, and the wine is delicious.

But it’s about more than just the wine; it’s about the whole experience. Take in the feeling of the vineyards and chat with the winemakers while enjoying a charcuterie board with local cheeses. Some wineries even offer picnic spots to sip your favorite vintage under the warm Santa Barbara sun. No matter how you do it, wine country in spring is a special treat for the senses.

4. Watch a Sunset at Butterfly Beach

Butterfly Beach isn’t just any beach. It’s a front-row seat to gorgeous sunsets on the California coast. Bring a blanket, lie back, and watch the golden hour before sunset. Locals love it, and visitors quickly understand why. The gentle ocean breeze and the sound of the waves make it the perfect spot to pause and reset. This is one of the top activities in Santa Barbara that requires zero effort on your part — just good company and maybe a glass of wine.

5. Stroll Through Blooming Gardens

Spring means flowers, and Santa Barbara surely delivers. Make your way through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden to view native plants. The Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is another gem, with winding paths, koi ponds, and a sensory garden if that’s more your speed. If you love a peaceful escape, these spots offer a break from the busy bustle of downtown.

6. Go Whale Watching

Santa Barbara weather in spring is ideal for one of the most thrilling ocean experiences — whale watching. Gray whales migrate south through the Santa Barbara Channel to the warm-water lagoons of Baja California in late November through April. Sign up for a boat tour and witness these mysterious creatures breach and glide through the waves. Dolphins often join in on the fun, making the experience unforgettable. Bring a camera because this is one of those moments you’ll want to relive again and again.

7. Join Spring Festivals & Events

Spring in Santa Barbara is festival season. The Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival is a must. It has live music, eco-friendly vendors, and an inspiring community vibe. Art lovers? The I Madonnari Street Painting Festival magically transforms sidewalks into chalk masterpieces. Whatever your vibe, there’s an event that’ll make these memories of your trip more meaningful.

Plan Your Perfect Spring Getaway in Santa Barbara

When it comes to things to do in spring, Santa Barbara offers something for everyone. Sip local wine, maybe spot a grey whale, or kick back on the beach as the sky changes over to sunset — whatever you do, it’ll be a memory for the ages.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your stay at The Eagle Inn, and get ready for a season of new experiences. See you soon in Santa Barbara!