Discover Goleta: Haskell Beach, Hiking, Restaurants, and Butterflies
The Chill Alternative to Santa Barbara Crowds
Unless you are a local, a student at UC Santa Barbara, or a guest at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Bacara Resort, many visitors to beautiful Santa Barbara remain unaware of the charm of Goleta. Situated just eight miles north of Santa Barbara, Goleta has its own distinct charm, history, and attractions. While Santa Barbara often gets the spotlight, Goleta offers beautiful beaches, nature preserves, and a more laid-back, local vibe.
Santa Barbara will always take the crown, but having lived there, Goleta was just a nice place to “chill,” every now and then. My favorite go-to place was Haskell Beach, in front of the Bacara Resort. Parking is free and easy. Haskell is beautiful, scenic, peaceful, and most of all, often overlooked. Especially when the summer crowds of Santa Barbara can be a bit overwhelming, I couldn’t recommend a more beautiful close-by alternative. There’s free public access with parking, picnic tables, restrooms, and showers. After you park, you will see the Haskell Beach access trail in front of the hotel. This is a free public access trail (0.3 miles out-and-back), offering beautiful ocean views, coastal wildlife sitings, and a peaceful atmosphere. If you aren’t up for the short hike, just sit on the bench and enjoy the views.
If your visit to Goleta falls between October and March, the Goleta Monarch Butterfly Grove is a must.
Goleta also has a great mix of fun and delicious dining. A popular local favorite is Algaves, known for its authentic flavors with an innovative twist. Their Molcajetes and Chiles Norteños are highly praised.
Here are some other favorites:
Jane At The Marketplace – Highly rated for its American and international cuisine.
The Bistro – Located at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, offering Mediterranean and American dishes.
Angel Oak At Bacara – A steakhouse with a refined dining experience.
Nikka Fish Market and Grill – A favorite for seafood lovers.
Timbers Roadhouse – A steakhouse with a cozy, local vibe.
Cajun Kitchen Cafe – Famous for its Southern-style breakfasts and beignets.
Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant – A local institution serving classic Mexican dishes.
CAYA Restaurant – Known for its Latin and Spanish-inspired cuisine.
Lastly, here’s a link from the Tourist Checklist Goleta with 23 things to do!
Goleta isn't just Santa Barbara’s quieter neighbor; it's a destination worth appreciating in its own right. Whether you're here for a weekend, just a few hours, or passing through, you'll quickly see why locals love this underrated stretch of the California coast.
Enjoy!
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