Things to do / Travel Guide
Address:Montecito, California
Welcome to Butterfly Beach, a beach as beautiful and glamorous as it sounds! Located in Santa Barbara, this is a true local's beach. You won't find any amenities, just families playing in the sand and surf, people walking their dogs (on and off the leash), and people getting their morning dose of fresh air and exercise. Join the locals (and the occasional movie star or two) and enjoy frolicking in this long stretch of sand. And best of all, this western facing beach provides some of the most stunning sunsets you'll ever see, so plan your day accordingly!
Tip: Bring your own lunch, water, and sunscreen since there are no public facilities. Butterfly Beach is, however, just across from the Four Seasons Biltmore so you may be able to sneak in and get some water if your stock runs out. (While you're in there, keep your eyes peeled for movie stars – it's a favorite spot for the stars!) Also, because of the offshore oil wells (which don't make the most pleasant of scenery), visitors to the beach should be careful of balls of oil and tar that tend to wash ashore. Wear old or inexpensive shoes and try not to get the oil on your skin – it's not too good for you and is a pain to get off.
To get to Butterfly Beach, take the 101 to Olive Mill Road in Montecito and then head towards the ocean. Have fun beachin' it up with the locals…and don't forget that sunset!
From Butterfly Beach - Santa Barbara (Montecito), California:
Butterfly Beach is the most west-facing beach in Santa Barbara. This makes it the best beach to watch a sunset, complete with incredible views of the city and the wharf.