9 Incredible Stops to Make on an LA to Santa Barbara Drive (2023)

Planning on venturing up north with an LA to Santa Barbara drive? Then you’ll need this Los Angeles to Santa Barbara drive itinerary, which features the best places to stop along your multi or single-day trip.

This itinerary ensures you won’t miss out on the best of what Southern California offers, regardless of your travel logistics. The focus will be the Pacific Coast Highway instead of Highway 101 because you just can’t skip over Cali’s beaches. This means you’ll get the low-down on the best coastal towns, attractions, and activities found along the way.

So, sit back, relax, and read further to know where to go on your drive to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles.

If you plan to travel south of LA anytime soon, then I’d recommend reading this piece for the best stops on a LA to San Diego drive.

1) Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a quintessential stop for any LA to Santa Barbara road trip or any West Coast visit. The city has a ton of things to do, all of which have helped it get its icon status. These attractions make it a perfect start for road tripping to Santa Barbara.

Visit Third Street Promenade to experience all the fun the area has, which caters to movie lovers, shopping enthusiasts, and party animals. Of course, a journey to Santa Monica pier is a must. The wooden wharf offers an aquarium, a roller coaster, a massive Ferris wheel, and more. Then make your way to one of the several sandy beaches in Santa Monica to swim, tan, and everything in between.

I’d also recommend renting a bike to get some exercise and travel along a 26-mile bike path through Venice and Marina del Rey. Just imagine all the splendid views along the way. But the views are even better at the Santa Monica Mountains, with the most popular being a view of the Pacific.

Of course, you’ll need to grab some fresh produce for the drive at the Santa Monica Farmers Market before leaving.

Where to stay in Santa Monica: Casa Del Mar

Many Hollywood stars called this fine hotel home, and now it’s your turn. It has two on-site restaurants, a pool, and a tub. Plus, it offers fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean.

If you prefer something a little more homey, take your pick from one of these Santa Monica Airbnbs.

2) Getty Villa

Obviously, you can’t just go from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara when there are stops totally worth stopping for. One of these is the illustrious Getty Villa, a popular spot in Southern California.

Nestled in Pacific Palisades, this fantastic art gallery is an excellent stop for a drive from LA to Santa Barbara. The museum features many ancient relics from the Greeks, Romans, and others, with some dating as far back as 400 CE. The beautiful Getty Villa is modeled after the Villa of Papyri at Herculaneum, giving you a European feel when you visit.

Take a stroll outside to view the gardens and grounds, which have the most amazing flora and a number of statues, all inspired by the Romans. Afterwards, stop by the Getty Villa cafeteria to enjoy a delectable meal and fuel up for the road trip before taking pictures beside the life-size sculptures.

3) Malibu

Malibu is a seaside SoCal town as famous as the celebrities that live in the area, making it an essential stop during a road trip to Santa Barbara from LA. It’s primarily renowned for its beautiful beaches. So, take your pick from the white sand of Zuma Beach, the rugged El Matador Beach, quiet Carbon Beach, rocky Point Mugu Beach, and so much more.

I’d recommend a visit to Malibu Pier, which is a haven for shopping, dining, fishing, or just relaxing. Plus, it offers amazing views of the Southern California coastline in an uncrowded space.

Since you’re in a celebrity town, how about seeing how they live with a celebrity home tour? Unfortunately, you won’t be in the houses, but you’ll be able to see where the who’s who of Hollywood live.

If the glitz and glamor don’t sound enticing, you can opt for something rugged and tackle one of the area’s many hiking trails. Two good picks include the Nicholas Flat Trail and Escondido Falls, which ends at a small waterfall. Need some more convincing? How about a vineyard hike with incredible views and two glasses of wine in wine-tasting rooms?

For a quieter time, visit the Malibu Contemporary Art Gallery, Frederick Weisman Museum of Art, Adamson House, and Malibu Lagoon Museum to view some great pieces. You can also see Malibu in a different way than on foot. Take in views of the town from the sky on a Fly-in Malibu paragliding experience.

Where to stay in Malibu: The M Malibu

This modern motel features an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen cable TV, plus some rooms offer balconies with ocean views. It’s a great budget stay and Malibu Pier and most beaches are just around a 20-minute walk away from the motel. Alternatively, choose to stay at one of these Malibu Airbnbs.

4) Thousand Oaks

Surprisingly not a tourist destination, inland Thousand Oaks has plenty of jam-packed fun that excites different kinds of visitors. It’s a great stop for navigating the road from Malibu to Santa Barbara, excellent for single, couple, or family travelers. On this drive, you’ll detour from the Pacific Coast Highway and drive along Decker Rd to Thousand Oaks.

Do you love all things flora? Perfect, head to the Gardens of the World or Conejo Valley Botanic Garden to take in their wonderful flower collections.

If you’re a history buff, then make sure to visit the Chumash Indian Museum. It features countless artifacts and anecdotes about how the Native American Chumash group lived harmoniously with nature. It also features some life-size replicas of the Chumash people and their village.

If your legs allow, scenic natural views are just a hike away in Wildwood Regional Park. You can’t forget to visit Paradise Falls to see the beautiful cascading waterfalls.

For some family fun to get your blood pumping and face smiling, visit DojoBoom. It offers a ton of fun activities, including a dodgeball court, trampolines, rock walls, and more. Trust me. You don’t want to miss out.

Where to stay in Thousand Oaks: Palm Garden Hotel

This small hotel is a great location in Thousand Oaks, first and foremost for the daily hot breakfast buffet they serve. Free Wi-Fi, a large flat-screen TV, and beautiful decor add to the hotel’s allure. The real kicker, though, is the outdoor swimming pool, perfect for combating the California sun.

5) Sycamore Cove Beach

While driving straight ahead from Thousand Oaks is okay, I’d recommend making your way back to the Pacific Coast highway. The Los Angeles to Santa Barbara drive is more scenic on this coastal road.

Your next stop will be quiet Sycamore Cove Beach, which features a long stretch of sand and clean water. It doesn’t have much going for it in terms of amenities. But, it’s a perfect stop to catch a breather and enjoy the sound of waves crashing on the Pacific Ocean.

It has a picnic table for enjoying your food or just spending a quiet time escaping the hustle and bustle of California.

The beach doesn’t have a nearby place to stay. Honestly, there isn’t much here that warrants an overnight stay. However, you can camp at the nearby Sycamore Canyon Campground, which has a great trailhead to stretch your legs.

6) Oxnard

North of Malibu and on the precipice of Ventura County is coastal Oxnard, a city that doesn’t get many tourists. Well, it’s their loss because the city boasts several beaches, fun activities, and dramatic landscapes, making for a worthy inclusion in a Los Angeles to Santa Barbara road trip.

Pick from Oxnard State Beach and Park and Mandalay State Beach to get a tan. Alternatively, enjoy a stroll on the beautiful shore featuring dunes or swim in the turquoise waters. To get a bit of a buzz, visit one of the several wineries in the area and get a taste of different wines.

If you’re a car enthusiast, two hidden gem automotive museums showcase classic cars – the Mullin Automotive Museum and the Murphy Auto Museum. They feature vintage vehicles, some from the early 1900s, like the Ford Mustang and a vehicle modeled after the Model T, America’s first automobile.

If ships are more your thing, visit the Channel Islands Maritime Museum featuring maritime paintings and scaled ship models. There’s also a Carnegie Art Museum to see if you prefer artistic pieces by some talented artists.

Of course, the beautiful and rugged landscapes of Channel Islands National Park are a must. Finally, tickle your funny bone at Levity Live Comedy Club.

Where to stay in Oxnard: Hilton Garden Inn Oxnard

This inn is a fantastic spot to sleep between the drive from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara because it offers no-frills accommodation at a reasonable price. In addition to the comfy beds and cable TV inside, there’s an outdoor pool and hot tub for relaxation.

7) Golf N Stuff

Whether you’re going LA to Santa Barbara or Santa Barbara to LA, Golf n’ Stuff is a must-do. The Ventura County amusement park has activities for both young and old.

Mimic Tiger Woods when playing miniature golf or put the pedal to the metal on a racing track in a GoKart that accommodates two. Then have fun bumping into each on bumper boats or bumper cars. Afterwards, try your hand at over 50 games with prizes at stake and end your time here with something from the snack bar.

The park opens at 10:00 and closes at 21:00, except on Fridays and Saturdays when it’s open for an extra hour.

8) Ventura

Towards the end of the Los Angeles to Santa Barbara drive stands this bustling city with various activities and attractions. Among the list of things to do is visit the coastal city’s beaches, including Ventura Beach, which features long stretches of golden sand and clean water.

Once you’re at the beach, hop on Ventura Pier and Promenade to enjoy seafood delicacies and tacos at the many restaurants here. A brewery on the pier also offers scenic ocean views if you want to wet your whistle.

I’d recommend a visit to Ventura Harbor Village, where you can enjoy palate-pleasing seafood and art galleries on every corner. Rent an electric boat or kayak and head out on the water to see seals and have family fun playing in the sand or arcade.

If you love flora, then visit the Ventura Botanical Gardens and Serra Cross Park for a stroll through the gardens and beautiful views of the city. Treat the history and art itch with a visit to Ventura City Hall and Ventura County Museum of History & Art.

Where to stay in Ventura: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Ventura Harbor, an IHG Hotel

This modern inn is located a few minutes from Ventura harbor. The hotel is pet friendly, and its rooms boast a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi. They also come equipped with a work desk and seating area.

9) Carpinteria

Before finally covering the total distance from LA to Santa Barbara, you must stop in Carpinteria — a quiet coastal city close to Santa Barbara. Although it has several activities and attractions, it’s the perfect last stop before heading into its fast-paced neighbor.

Take a stroll to the fantastic Carpinteria State Beach via Linden Avenue, dotted with excellent restaurants and cafes serving Thai cuisine, seafood, and sweet delicacies. Visit the Carpinteria Harbor Seal Preserve to see some seals in action, or visit Canzelle Alpacas to pet alpacas.

For a nature-filled visit, journey to the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve and Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park and see beautiful flowers. I also recommend visiting the Wardholme Torrey Pine, the world’s largest Torrey Pine tree. Then explore the rugged landscapes of the city on foot or rent a bike and embark on the Rincon Bike Trail that passes through a beautiful beach.

Want to wet your whistle in Carpinteria? Great, there isn’t a shortage of breweries and wineries here. Visit Island Brewing Company in the downtown area for excellent ales and Apiary Ciderworks & Meadery to taste different wines and drinks.

If you have little kids with you, take them to the Carpinteria Valley Museum of History, which is filled with artifacts. Afterwards, take them to Tomol Interpretive Play Area, which features slides and cool animal statues.

Where to stay in Carpinteria: Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn

Located just a walking distance from Carpinteria State Beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and cable TV. The hotel offers an outdoor pool, hot tub, and on-site restaurants. Towards the end of the night, stroll through the large courtyard, which features a beautiful koi pond.

Los Angeles to Santa Barbara Drive: FAQs

While this guide has covered the top stops for driving to Santa Barbara from LA, here are some answers to your questions.

How Far is Santa Barbara from LA?

The distance from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara is 95 miles. The LA to Santa Barbara drive time is around two hours.

Is the Drive from LA to Santa Barbara Scenic?

Yes. If you drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll be blessed with nothing but beautiful scenery while covering the Los Angeles to Santa Barbara distance.

Planning a trip to California?

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