Best Dog Friendly Activities in Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara, California, is a beautiful resort and beach destination on the Pacific Ocean. Its climate is almost Mediterranean-feeling, and there are lots of outdoor locations for visitors to get some exercise with their canine companions. This city is full of pleasant nature and gardens, as well as some nice restaurants that welcome dogs.

Top Dog Friendly Activities in Santa Barbara in 2024

Attractions

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is an aesthetically-pleasing science and education institute with over 1,000 species of California plants. It is sprawled out over 65 acres, with over 5 miles of trails to explore the different sections. Dogs must be leashed to join their owners at this garden.

Stearns Wharf

Stearns Wharf is one of the longest deep-water piers in California. It is a historic wharf; its construction started in 1872, and it has since been damaged, closed and reopened many times. Today, Stearns Wharf is the biggest tourist spot in Santa Barbara, full of interesting shops, restaurants and other entertainment. Dogs may not be on the sandy areas by the wharf, but are allowed to walk around on its upper premises.

Municipal Winemakers

Leashed dogs may walk around the beautiful grounds of Municipal Winemakers, but must stay away from the indoor wine tasting area.

Parks

Plaza del Mar

Plaza del Mar is one of the oldest parks in Santa Barbara. It is a small park that has a grassy area, a band shell and several trees for shade. Dogs are welcome on leash.

Shoreline Park

Shoreline Park is one of the most popular parks of the city. It is located across some bluffs that overlook the beach and water. Shoreline Park has many features, such as walking paths, a playground, grassy areas, whale watching opportunities and gardens. There are also designated areas that can be reserved for picnics and barbecues. Dogs are welcome so long as they are leashed.

Outdoor Restaurants

Tupelo Junction Cafe

The Tupelo Junction Cafe offers breakfast, lunch and dinner options on most days of the week. Their food is healthy and often loaded with vegetables. This cafe provides happy hour on Thursdays from 5:00-7:00 PM. Leashed dogs are allowed on their patio.

The Brewhouse

The Brewhouse Brewery has a patio that welcomes leashed dogs, and is a fine place to enjoy some cold beers. There is also live music Wednesday through Saturday.

Esau’s Cafe

Esau’s Cafe is a downtown spot that has specialized pancakes and welcomes leashed dogs.

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