Location: Goleta
Top Things to do in Goleta
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10 Things to Do in Goleta That You Shouldn't Miss
Goleta, home to University of California at Santa Barbara (UCSB) and the Santa Barbara Airport, hugs the coast 12 miles west of Santa Barbara. First called "The Good Land" by the Spanish, Goleta was once known for its rich agriculture, and smaller scale farms still pepper the landscape. The California Lemon Festival at Girsh Park is a must-see every October. Visitors seeking outdoor adventure can fish off Goleta Pier, surf at Campus Point and hike along bluffs overlooking untrammeled coastline.
Restaurants in Goleta
1. Goleta Beach
Overall Ratings
4 based on 144 reviews
A long sandy beach near Goleta Point.
Reviewed By Miranda C - Newport Beach, California
My favorite part about this place is there are benches very close to the water. When sitting, you get to see the never-ending ocean accompanied by blue sky and sun. The breeze adds to the scene, and it is also a great place to just relax. The pier is also nice, but I would say not as nice as the beach. A pleasant walk is all it has to offer. The wood is uneven and easy to trip. Fishing is an activity to do, but some fishers swear-- be careful around children. Although another plus is that you can get quite close to seagulls and pigeons, and they won't be fazed. It takes more than walking by them to disturb them. It is really the beach that makes Goleta worth visiting.
2. UCSB Lagoon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 11 reviews
Reviewed By lfiebert - Lansdale, Pennsylvania
Since we did not have a car, the shuttle from our hotel dropped us at The UCSB campus which was short walk to the trail around the lagoon. The Lagoon trail was a fascinating brief wildlife experience which allowed us to see several Great Blue Heron, a few grebes, and many cormorants. After walking around the lagoon, we continued on the trail that skirts the dunes along the shoreline. We were able to see some lovely colorful wild flowers and other plants. The views of the ocean were often quite amazing. We spent an enjoyable two hours and had a good time.
3. Goleta Butterfly Grove
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 74 reviews
The Goleta Butterfly Grove is currently closed to public access. The Ellwood Mesa has a significant number of dead and dying trees that are at risk for falling. The City is working on a Monarch Butterfly Habitat Management Plan to restore this area as a overwintering location for these beautiful creatures
Reviewed By David L - Goleta, California
This and "Coronado Butterfly Preserve" are essentially the same place. A long drought has killed many trees and caused damage to plants. As a result, some of the trails are considered by the City to be in danger of falling trees. Despite that, it is a charming open space with easily accessible trails and beautiful views. What I like the most is the quiet and natural surroundings. For now I am giving a four. It will return to a five when the area heals after a few more years of normal rain.
4. Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Designed by William Mooser III in the Spanish-Moorish architectural style, this working courthouse is surrounded by landscaped gardens and lawns.
Reviewed By Annick831 - Ventura, California
This is a free tour to do in Santa Barbara! It's a beautiful building, during opening hours you can pop your head in some of the surrounding attached buildings and offices, it's well worth exploring. Don't be surprise to see a wedding ceremony happening on the grounds or an engagement picture shoot (especially during the weekend) it's such a beautiful place... Climb to the top to see a wonderful view of the city, the ocean (on a clear day), the mission, etc. If you climb by stairs you will see the clock room with the bells that rings every hour.
5. Refugio State Park and Beach
Overall Ratings
4 based on 102 reviews
Reviewed By BlakievanHemert - Santa Barbara, California
It`s special to be able to drive right to the ocean and set up a campsite, fix your own meals and walk on the beach and swim in the water all in a moment. This is well maintained, very popular and reservations are essential.
6. Coronado Butterfly Preserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 35 reviews
Reviewed By OldOldBob - Gallatin, Tennessee
Those who were here in the 1980's remember the trees covered with life. Now a remnant returns but may not persist. Before the eucalyptus trees were introduced they were not here and now milkweed is disappearing. Still not to be missed.
7. Fairview Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 20 reviews
Come visit the farm! Founded in 1895, Fairview Gardens is one of the oldest organic farms in southern California and preserved for all to enjoy. Fairview Gardens is a non-profit organization and plays a unique role in the community, providing its neighbors with food, educational events, and a connection to the land. Pack a picnic, visit our farm stand, and take a self-guided tour through our fruit orchards and open space. Bring a camera and get ready for some delicious fun.
Reviewed By Loveworldtravel - Santa Barbara, California
I love buying produce, bread, and eggs at Fairview Gardens. We've been customers for well over a decade. The fruit and veggies are as fresh as can be. Some years back, we asked if eggs were available. They said we can come back in a little while because the hens were still sitting on them. The hens get to run around outside the cage much of the day. The food is excellent.
8. Cold Spring Tavern
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 460 reviews
A popular mountain for hiking outside of Santa Barbara.
Reviewed By Gerry H
This is a lace worth visiting, especially on the weekend when they BBQ tri-tip outside on the grill. Then there is the local bands that play, and a tone of bikers in a serene setting
9. Rancho La Patera & Stow House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17 reviews
aka Stow House or Rancho La Patera
Reviewed By OldOldBob - Gallatin, Tennessee
We lived nearby in the 1970's and walked the lake trails many an afternoon. Over the years the house and lawn have been the site of many weddings and community events. Today the drought has brought the lake low, but the many acres still provide a scenic ramble.
10. South Coast Railroad Museum
Overall Ratings
4 based on 12 reviews
Reviewed By Bob T - San Diego, California
This is going to be particularly exciting for small children. A local business has subsidized the attraction, so the miniature train ride (which is cheap enough as it is) will be free on weekends this year. It's a nice ride that lasts a while because they have built several loops of track into their limited acreage.
The one piece of real rolling stock -- a "bay window" caboose -- is badly in need of refurbishing. Displays in the old Goleta station, which has been moved here, are interesting, but will not hold children or adults for too long.
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