Let’s soak up the coastal charm

A dreamy blend of coastal calm and mountain magic—visit storybook towns, explore tide pools, and picnic among palm trees and Spanish-style charm.

MOXI – The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation

Location: 125 State St, Santa Barbara

Best For Ages: 3–12

Why It’s Awesome: Hands-on exhibits meet science and creativity in a light-filled building right by the beach—launch stuff, build stuff, play music with your feet!

Pro Tip: Head to the rooftop for the coolest views and wind-powered play.

Icon Tags: Creative Play, Indoor Fun, Science Buff

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History + Sea Center

Location: 2559 Puesta Del Sol + 211 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara

Best For Ages: 3+

Why It’s Awesome: Touch sharks, hike nature trails, and explore a life-size blue whale at this split-location museum made for curious minds.

Pro Tip: Bundle admission for both locations for a full science day!

Icon Tags: Animal Lover, Outdoor Learning, Educational Fun

Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry’s Beach)

Location: 2981 Cliff Dr, Santa Barbara

Best For Ages: All Ages

Why It’s Awesome: A kid- and dog-friendly beach with gentle waves, tide pools, and a beachfront café for sandy snack breaks.

Pro Tip: Arrive at low tide for the best tide pooling + less crowded sand.

Icon Tags: Beach Day, Nature Explorer, Chill Vibes

Solvang Danish Village Adventure

Location: Solvang (Downtown Area)

Best For Ages: All Ages

Why It’s Awesome: Wander a storybook Danish town—windmills, aebleskivers (Danish pancake balls), horse-drawn trolleys, and mini museums galore.

Pro Tip: Visit the Solvang Park playground and grab a Danish pastry picnic.

Icon Tags: Quirky Spot, Foodie Fun, Cultural Fun

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Location: 1212 Mission Canyon Rd, Santa Barbara

Best For Ages: All Ages

Why It’s Awesome: Wind through California-native trails, bridges, and meadows with sweeping canyon views and hummingbirds galore.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars and sketchbooks—perfect for a slow-paced adventure.

Icon Tags: Botanical Beauty, Chill Vibes, Nature Walk

El Capitan Canyon Nature Glamping & Day Visits

Location: 11560 Calle Real, Santa Barbara

Best For Ages: 5+

Why It’s Awesome: Stay or day-trip to this luxury campground with hiking, llama visits, and beach access nearby—camping without the gear stress.

Pro Tip: Day passes are limited—call ahead to confirm availability!

Icon Tags: Glamping Vibes, Outdoor Adventure, Hidden Gem

Lompoc Murals + Art Alley Walk

Location: Downtown Lompoc

Best For Ages: 4+

Why It’s Awesome: A scavenger hunt-style walk through vibrant murals that tell the town’s story, with pops of history and colorful backdrops.

Pro Tip: Pair this with a trip to Ryon Park for playtime and local eats.

Icon Tags: Artsy Spot, Free Entry, Local Vibes

Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum + Carriage House

Location: 3596 Sagunto St, Santa Ynez

Best For Ages: 5+

Why It’s Awesome: Peek into old Western life with vintage carriages, cowboy tools, and old-town charm—all under one small roof.

Pro Tip: Kids love pretending they’re on a wagon trail—bring bandanas for extra cowboy flair!

Icon Tags: History Buff, Immersive Fun, Quick Stop

Los Olivos Picnic & Lavendar Field Stop

Location: Downtown Los Olivos + Clairmont Farms

Best For Ages: All Ages

Why It’s Awesome: Grab picnic snacks in this cute wine-country town and head to nearby lavender fields for photos and peaceful play.

Pro Tip: Late spring = peak bloom. Bring bubbles and a blanket!

Icon Tags: Chill Vibes, Floral Fun, Insta Moments

Jalama Beach County Park

Location: 9999 Jalama Rd, Lompoc

Best For Ages: All Ages

Why It’s Awesome: Rustic and wild beach vibes + the world-famous Jalama Burger + sunsets worth the drive = family beach magic.

Pro Tip: No cell service—download maps and bring cash for burgers!

Icon Tags: Beach Day, Scenic Drive, Hidden Gem