Standout Hikes in our Coastal Paradise.
Here are 6 standout hikes curated from the “Best Hikes in Santa Barbara” page on Cristal Clarke’s website.
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1) Seven Falls: A Refreshing Hike with Natural Pools
Seven Falls is a local favorite that combines moderate effort with big rewards. Located off Tunnel Road, this 3.4-mile roundtrip trail draws hikers who love waterfalls, rocky scrambles, and the chance to cool off in natural pools.
The adventure begins where the pavement ends. From there, you leave the city behind and step into chaparral country, with the scent of sage and coastal scrub guiding your way. The trail weaves through native plants and crosses seasonal streambeds as you gradually climb.
About halfway in, you’ll reach the namesake falls—a series of small cascades feeding into inviting pools. On warm days, this spot becomes a natural oasis, perfect for dipping your feet or pausing for a snack. Those who continue upward are rewarded with expanding views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean beyond.

2) La Cumbre Peak: A Panoramic Journey to Santa Barbara’s Highest Point
If you’re ready for a challenge, La Cumbre Peak is a must. This intermediate 10-mile roundtrip hike leads you to Santa Barbara’s highest point at 3,995 feet, offering some of the most spectacular views in the region.
Starting from the end of Tunnel Trail, you’ll wind through classic Santa Ynez terrain—chaparral-covered slopes, hardy manzanita, and aromatic sagebrush. As you climb, the views open up: rugged mountains behind you, coastline and Channel Islands stretching out in front.
The steady incline makes this a serious workout, but the payoff at the peak is worth every step: a 360-degree panorama that reminds you why people fall in love with Santa Barbara.
3) Inspiration Point: A Classic Santa Barbara View
True to its name, Inspiration Point delivers one of the most inspiring vistas around—about 1,800 feet above sea level. There are two main routes to get there, each with its own personality.
- Via San Roque Road & Jesusita Trail
This route is just under 8 miles roundtrip, with about 1,400 feet of elevation gain. You’ll pass under oak and sycamore canopies, enjoy shaded stretches, and move through a landscape full of local flora and birdlife.
- Via Tunnel Road & Jesusita Trail
Looking for something shorter? Start at Tunnel Road and connect to the Jesusita Trail for a more direct 3.75-mile roundtrip. You won’t get as many coastal views on the way up, but you’ll still end at the same breathtaking lookout.
Whichever path you choose, the final view from Inspiration Point—city, ocean, islands, and distant Los Padres peaks—is pure Santa Barbara magic, especially at sunrise or sunset.
4) Lizard’s Mouth: A Scenic, Easy Escape
If you want big views with minimal effort, Lizard’s Mouth is your spot. Just off West Camino Cielo Road, this short, roughly quarter-mile trail leads to dramatic sandstone boulders and a rock formation that looks like a lizard’s open mouth.
Once you reach the main rock outcrop, you’re treated to wide-open vistas over Santa Barbara, the coastline, and the Channel Islands. It’s an ideal place to bring a blanket, a picnic, or a simple charcuterie board and linger as the light changes.
Photographers love Lizard’s Mouth for its sculpted rocks and radiant sunsets; locals love it as an easy, stunning escape above the city.
5) Rattlesnake Canyon: A Shaded, Family-Friendly Adventure
Don’t let the name scare you—Rattlesnake Canyon is one of Santa Barbara’s most beloved family-friendly hikes. This 4.5-mile roundtrip trail begins next to Skofield Park, clearly marked by a prominent trail sign.
The path meanders along a shaded canyon, crossing a creek in wetter months and threading through oaks, sycamores, and lush greenery. Gentle ups and downs make it accessible for a wide range of hikers, including older kids and leashed dogs.
If you’re craving a peaceful, forested feel without leaving town, Rattlesnake Canyon is an excellent choice.
6) Tunnel Trail: A Local Favorite with Big Payoff
There’s a reason Tunnel Trail is a go-to for Santa Barbara locals. With sweeping city views, dramatic rock features, and seasonal waterfalls nearby, this trail offers a little bit of everything.
From the end of Tunnel Road, the trail climbs into the Santa Ynez range, giving you glimpses of the mountains around East Camino Cielo Road as you go. The main hike is about 7.5 miles roundtrip, but if you’re in the mood for a longer adventure, you can continue all the way to La Cumbre Peak.
Be sure to bring sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and your camera—the combination of elevation, vistas, and diverse terrain makes Tunnel Trail an unforgettable outing.
READY FOR A VIEW OF YOUR OWN?
If the allure of these hikes has you dreaming about a home with its own mountain or ocean views, explore Cristal Clarke’s listings of Santa Barbara real estate or utilize the property search tool on he comprehensive website. Call her at (805) 886-9378 or via email at Cristal@montecito-estate.com for a complimentary consultation. Meantime, see you on the trail!
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