Upper Riviera Travel Guide
Santa Barbara
Visit Upper Riviera
Popular places to visit
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.
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 Bowl
Enjoy a show at Santa Barbara Bowl, a popular theatre in Santa Barbara. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
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.
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: Beach and Coastline Helicopter Tour
Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara Downtown Self Guided Walking Tour
Santa Barbara: Guided Tour on electric bikes (private)
Top hotels in Upper Riviera
El Encanto Santa Barbara
beautiful property, with many separate cottages, beautifully kept property, gorgeous views.
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026
Hotel Santa Barbara
It was such a treat to stay at the Hotel Santa Barbara with friends. The hotel is quite charming. Ate dinner across the street at Joe’s Cafe which is a must do. Had a wonderful meal. Such a great location. We will be back 😃
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2026
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
continental breakfast was great the property was well taken care of room was very clean
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2026
Sandpiper Lodge
The rooms and lobby look nothing like the picture. The description gave the impression that the room was much larger than it was in reality. The furniture was in so so condition. The breakfast area was quite mess on the day that we went.
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2026
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
Great room with a partial view of the ocean. Staff was really nice and the check in and out was super easy.
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2026
Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn
We stay here at least once a year on our way to Big Sur. In theoast we have always had the room facing the courtyard and its perfect. This time the room faces the parking lot and street and it was very noisy all night. Still a charming place with beautiful courtyard and friendly staff.
Reviewed on 29 Apr 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
Mission Canyon is noteworthy for its gardens, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and The Children's Centennial Maze.
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 Arlington Theater might round out your trip.
