Things to do in Goleta

Activities, attractions and tours

Panoramic View of More Mesa Shores, Santa Barbara County
C95MX5 Preserved railroad station in Goleta, California
NA, USA, California, Santa Barbara, Goleta; Sandpiper Golf Course
#goldenhour #socal #california
An hour long boat ride away from Oxnard harbor, Anacapa Island is the second smallest island in the Channel Islands National Park. It has spectacular sunset and sunrise views and has dark blue clear water to kayak, snorkel or scuba dive. Has historical importance of Chumash tribe believing that human life originated on these islands. A must go for a nice overnight camping, be sure to carry water and eatables with you. There are absolutely no stores of any kind on the mile long island.
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Most popular experiences in Goleta

Tours & day trips

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Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
9.4 out of 10 with 241 reviews
Price is P 1,674 per adult
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Food, drink & nightlife

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3-Winery Santa Ynez Tour with Picnic Lunch & Tasting Fees

3-Winery Santa Ynez Tour with Picnic Lunch & Tasting Fees

Activity duration is 5 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 16 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 8,910 per adult
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History & culture

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Los Angeles Day Trip to Santa Barbara via Oxnard-Amtrak Coast Starlight

Los Angeles Day Trip to Santa Barbara via Oxnard-Amtrak Coast Starlight

Activity duration is 10 hours and 55 minutes
6.6 out of 10 with 4 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 13,156 per adult
Los Angeles Day Trip to Santa Barbara via Oxnard-Amtrak Coast StarlightOpens in new tab

Water activities

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Sunset Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

Sunset Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 22 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 5,322 per adult
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Wildlife & nature

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Santa Barbara: Full-Day 7-Speed Bike Rental with Area Map

Santa Barbara: Full-Day 7-Speed Bike Rental with Area Map

10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is P 2,093 per adult
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What to do in Goleta

Popular places to visit

Santa Barbara, United States - Febriary 16, 2018: Panorama Skyline of University California Santa Barbara seen from across Goleta Bay off Goleta Pier. Blue water and sky. Henley Gate on the right.

University of California, Santa Barbara

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit University of California, Santa Barbara, during your travels in Goleta. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the biking trails.

University of California, Santa Barbara
Isla Vista beach scene California

Isla Vista Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Isla Vista Beach during your trip to Goleta?

Isla Vista Beach
El Capitan State Beach, Shutterstock ID 735550597, Purchase Order: SP-1891 Wave 0, Client/Licensee: Hotels.com

El Capitan State Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at El Capitan State Beach during your travels in Goleta? While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

El Capitan State Beach
A group of Birds play on the ocean surf - Blue skies on a summer day

Refugio State Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Refugio State Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Goleta. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Refugio State Beach
Couldn’t resist this rock formation that looks like an eye. Had my wife complete the Iris.

Gaviota State Park

You can take time to visit Gaviota State Park during your travels to Goleta. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Gaviota State Park
Short walk from parking, very scenic little spot.

Nojoqui Falls Park

Explore the great outdoors at Nojoqui Falls Park, a lovely green space in Goleta. Check out the casinos and wineries in this walkable area.

Nojoqui Falls Park
You can walk for miles and not see another person! This is an old pier that has largely been abandoned after a storm took out part of it. #Festival

Gaviota Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Gaviota Beach during your trip to Gaviota?

Gaviota Beach

Sandpiper Golf Club

Play a round of golf in Goleta at Sandpiper Golf Club, and enjoy other activities such as biking. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.

Sandpiper Golf Club

UC SB Events Center

Catch an event at UC SB Events Center during your trip to Goleta.

UC SB Events Center
La Purisima Conception mission CA

Lompoc

SOLVANG, SANTA YNEZ VALLEY, SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, CA -2021 The shops of this historic Danish tourist community can seen in this 22021 Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, California,

Solvang

Patchwork Of Vineyards Is Seen In Early Summer, Trees, Farm Buildings And Rolling Hillsides In The Background, Santa Ynez Valley; Los Olivos, California, United States Of America

Santa Ynez

Frequently asked questions

Is Goleta worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Goleta is explore Stearns Wharf. Tick this major attraction off your to-do list, then experience more of this area's markets and family-friendly attractions.
How do I spend a day in Goleta?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Stearns Wharf and Santa Barbara Natural History Museum, spend some time discovering Goleta's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Goleta?
The top tourist attraction in Goleta is Stearns Wharf, so make sure to put it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Goleta?
Three days in Goleta is enough to visit the city's key attractions. Many travelers stay for two days on average. Hendrys Beach, Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park and More Mesa Beach are among the most popular sights. Want to see more? Hang around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Santa Barbara.
Is Goleta a walkable city?
If discovering on foot sounds like your kind of vacation, Goleta is an ideal destination. Find major sights, including More Mesa Beach, within walking distance of downtown. You can also enjoy a stroll through Isla Vista, a vibrant neighborhood located about 3 kilometers from downtown.
What are some activities to do in Goleta with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a fun-filled itinerary takes your trip to the next level. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Goleta with kids.

What to do in Goleta for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Goleta, with experiences for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at UC SB Events Center or Cold Spring Tavern.
Are there free things to do in Goleta?
From enjoying parks to strolling around hip neighborhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Goleta. If you're in need of ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Hendrys Beach is a great spot for anyone wishing to save on their travel adventures.

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