11 Pawesome Things To Do With Your Dog In Santa Barbara

If you're a proud dog owner living in or visiting Santa Barbara, then you're in for a treat! Your faithful furry friend can be your companion while enjoying a range of exciting and pawesome activities in this beautiful city. From hiking breathtaking trails to savoring delicious meals, Santa Barbara offers a wealth of opportunities for both you and your four-legged companion. Whether you're looking for an outdoor adventure or a quiet stroll, check out these 11 pawesome things to do with your furry buddy in Santa Barbara. Get ready to wag your tails!

Visit the Douglas Family Preserve

If you're planning a trip to Santa Barbara with your furry friend, one of the best things to do is visit the Douglas Family Preserve. This stunning park is a dog-friendly paradise and offers a perfect opportunity for pets and owners to bond. Situated along the coastline, this 70-acre park is a beautiful setting for a day trip with your pooch.

Formerly known as the Wilcox Property, the Douglas Family Preserve was once threatened by commercial developers. However, preservation efforts led by Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones helped save this stunning natural space. Since then, it has been open to the public for all to enjoy - including your four-legged friends!

The park has several hiking trails that lead to some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. From the top of the hill, you can see across the ocean to the Channel Islands. The trails wind through oak groves, coastal meadows, and some of the most beautiful natural vegetation in California.

One of the biggest draws of the Douglas Family Preserve is its off-leash policy for dogs. As long as your furry friend is well-behaved and responds to commands, you can let them roam free. This will give them the opportunity to run, play, and socialize with other dogs. There's a lower level of the park near the beach that is a popular spot for dogs to swim, cool down, and enjoy some playtime.

The Douglas Family Preserve is open every day from dawn to dusk, and there are no fees to enter the park. However, it is always a good practice to keep an eye on your dog and be respectful of other visitors while enjoying the park. You'll want to make sure that you bring lots of water and waste bags to clean up after your dog. Restrooms are available near the park entrance.

In conclusion, the Douglas Family Preserve is an excellent destination for a day trip with your furry friend in Santa Barbara. This off-leash park offers stunning views, diverse hiking trails, and plenty of opportunities for your dog to play and socialize. So next time you're in Santa Barbara with your four-legged friend, don't miss the chance to visit the Douglas Family Preserve!

Hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains

If you're looking for a scenic hike in Santa Barbara and want to bring your furry best friend along for the adventure, then you'll definitely want to consider heading up into the Santa Ynez Mountains. With miles of trails and stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and valleys, there are many opportunities to explore the great outdoors with your dog. However, it is important to remember that dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and you should bring along plenty of water and snacks for both you and your pup.

One of the most popular trails in the Santa Ynez Mountains is the Romero Canyon Trail, which is about 2.5 miles long and leads up to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is moderate difficulty, so be prepared for a good workout, but the payoff is worth it. Along the way, you'll see plenty of wildflowers, trees, and wildlife. Take some time to rest at the waterfall and let your dog drink from the crystal clear waters.

Another great hike is the Cold Spring Trail, which is about 2.5 miles long and takes you to a scenic lookout called Montecito Peak. This trail is a bit more challenging with some steep switchbacks, so make sure to bring plenty of water for you and your pup. Along the way, you'll enjoy beautiful views of the ocean and the surrounding hills. Once you reach the top, take a break and enjoy the scenery while your dog catches its breath.

If you're looking for a shorter hike, the Douglas Family Preserve is a popular spot with locals. This park has several trails and is easily accessible from the Mesa neighborhood. The trails are mostly flat and easy, making it a great option for all ages and skill levels. You'll enjoy beautiful views of the ocean and the city as you walk through this scenic park with your dog.

No matter which trail you choose, make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog. Also, be courteous to other hikers and keep your dog on a leash at all times. With a little preparation and some adventurous spirit, you and your furry companion are sure to have an unforgettable experience in the Santa Ynez Mountains.

Enjoy the beach at Arroyo Burro Beach Park

Santa Barbara is one of the most beautiful cities on the west coast of California. With its expansive beaches, rolling hills, and laid-back vibe, it's a great place to visit with your furry friends. If you're looking for a place to enjoy the sun, sand, and water with your dog, then look no further than Arroyo Burro Beach Park.

Located on the western edge of Santa Barbara, Arroyo Burro Beach Park, also known as Hendry's Beach, is a top spot for beachgoers and dog lovers alike. This off-leash beach is one of the few in the area where dogs are allowed to run free, play in the water, and soak up the sun alongside their owners.

But it's not just the freedom for dogs that makes Arroyo Burro Beach Park a winner; it's also the stunning scenery. The beach is flanked by gorgeous sandstone cliffs and overlooks the sparkling Pacific Ocean. The views here are simply breathtaking and create a sense of peace and tranquillity.

Of course, activities abound at Arroyo Burro Beach Park, making it a fun-filled destination for humans and dogs alike. The surfing is great, so if you're an avid surfer, you'll want to catch a few waves. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball are also popular ways to enjoy the beach.

But if you're more into relaxation than activity, that's okay too. Arroyo Burro Beach Park has plenty of picnic sites, barbeque grills, and beach chairs for you to kick back and enjoy the sun. It's a great place to spend a lazy afternoon, reading, sunbathing, or simply watching the waves.

When it comes to visiting Arroyo Burro Beach Park with your dog, just remember to follow the leash laws and clean up after your furry friends. The park has doggy bags and trash cans throughout, so there's no excuse not to clean up.

So if you're in Santa Barbara and want to enjoy a beautiful beach with your dog, head to Arroyo Burro Beach Park. It's an experience you and your furry friend won't soon forget.

Explore the trails at Elings Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	Elings Park
Type	Park in Santa Barbara County, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 574
Address	1298 Las Positas Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Phone	(805) 569-5611
Profiles

Santa Barbara is a beautiful city located on the coast of California. It is known for its Mediterranean climate, beaches, and mountains. The city is also home to numerous parks and hiking trails, many of which are dog-friendly. If you're visiting Santa Barbara with your furry friend, one trail that you should definitely explore is Elings Park.

Elings Park is a 230-acre park located in the heart of Santa Barbara. It was named after Virgil Elings, a local philanthropist who donated the land to the city. The park has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. The best part is that these trails are open to dogs, so you and your pup can explore the park together.

To access the trails, you can enter the park from Cliff Drive or Las Positas Road. There is a parking lot at each entrance, and both are free to use. Once you're inside the park, you'll find several trails that range in difficulty from easy to moderate. The trails are well-marked, so it's easy to find your way around.

One of the most popular trails at Elings Park is the Ridgetop Trail. This trail is a moderate hike that offers panoramic views of the city and the ocean. It's about 2.5 miles round trip, and it takes about an hour to complete. The trail is mostly uphill, so it's a good workout, but it's worth it for the views.

Another great trail to explore with your dog is the Off-Leash Dog Park Trail. This trail is a dog-friendly area where your furry friend can run around off-leash. The area is fully fenced, so you don't have to worry about your dog running away. There are also benches where you can sit and watch your dog play.

If you and your dog are up for a challenge, you can try the Park Traverse Trail. This trail is a 7.5-mile loop that takes you through the park's most scenic areas. It's a strenuous hike, but it's worth it for the breathtaking views.

Before you go, make sure to bring plenty of water for you and your dog. It can get hot in Santa Barbara, especially in the summer, so it's important to stay hydrated. Also, remember to clean up after your dog. Elings Park is a beautiful natural space, and we want to keep it that way. Bring poop bags and dispose of them properly.

In summary, if you're visiting Santa Barbara with your dog, be sure to explore the hiking trails at Elings Park. With stunning views and plenty of trails to choose from, this park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry friends.

Play in the off-leash area at Shoreline Park

Are you planning a trip to Santa Barbara with your furry friend? Look no further than the off-leash area at Shoreline Park. This beautiful park, located in the heart of Santa Barbara, welcomes dogs to run and play freely in a designated off-leash area.

Shoreline Park is well-known for its stunning views of the ocean, and it's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The off-leash area is located at the eastern end of the park, next to the bike path. The area is fully fenced, making it a safe and secure place for dogs to play. There are benches for owners to relax and watch their pets, and water fountains for dogs to stay hydrated.

The off-leash area at Shoreline Park is spacious and perfect for dogs of all sizes. Whether your pup loves to fetch, run, or just explore, there's plenty of room for them to do it. The soft grassy terrain is easy on their paws, and there are even some trees for shade on hot days.

The best part about the off-leash area at Shoreline Park is the sense of community it fosters. Dog owners come from all over Santa Barbara to let their pets play together, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. It's a great place to socialize your dog and to meet other dog owners.

However, it's important to note that the off-leash area is not a dog park. Dogs must still be under voice control and well-behaved. Owners are responsible for their pets' behavior and must pick up after them to keep the area clean.

Overall, if you're planning a trip to Santa Barbara with your dog, be sure to check out the off-leash area at Shoreline Park. It's a beautiful, welcoming, and safe place for your furry friend to play, exercise, and socialize. Your dog will thank you for it!

Have a picnic at Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens

Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, but it's even better when you can bring your furry best friend with you! If you're looking for a great spot to have a picnic with your pup, Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens is the perfect destination.

Located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, these botanical gardens are filled with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and plenty of open space to spread your blanket and enjoy a snack with your canine companion. The park also features a duck pond, a koi pond, and a beautiful gazebo that make for great photo opportunities.

One of the best things about Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens is that it is dog-friendly, meaning that you can bring your four-legged friend along for the adventure. Of course, this means you'll need to be responsible and pick up after your pup, but there are plenty of trash cans throughout the park to help make this easier.

In addition to having a picnic, you and your furry friend can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, enjoy the scenery, and relax in the peaceful atmosphere. The park is also filled with shade trees, so you can find a cool spot to enjoy your meal on a hot day.

Another great feature of Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens is that it is free to the public, so you don't have to worry about spending a lot of money to have a fun day out with your pup. All you need is a picnic blanket, some food, and your furry friend to enjoy a wonderful afternoon in the beauty of Santa Barbara.

Overall, if you're looking for a destination where you can enjoy a picnic with your dog, Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens is the perfect spot. With its beautiful scenery, dog-friendly atmosphere, and free admission, it's the ideal place to spend a relaxing day with your pup in Santa Barbara.

Go stand-up paddleboarding at Goleta Beach

Santa Barbara is a beautiful place to explore with your furry friend. With its scenic beaches and plenty of dog-friendly activities, it's an ideal destination for pet parents. One such activity that you and your dog can enjoy together is stand-up paddleboarding at Goleta Beach.

Located just 15 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara, Goleta Beach is a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. Its calm waters and stunning views make it an ideal place to go paddleboarding. And the best part is that your dog can come along for the ride!

Before you head out, it's important to make sure that your pup is comfortable around water and enjoys being on a board. You don't want to force your dog into doing something they're not comfortable with. So if they seem hesitant at first, take it slow and introduce them to the board gradually.

Once your dog is ready to go, you can rent a stand-up paddleboard and set off on your adventure. Make sure to bring a leash, life jacket, and plenty of water for both you and your pup. It's also a good idea to pack some snacks to keep your energy levels up during the ride.

As you paddle out into the calm waters of Goleta Beach, you and your furry friend will be treated to breathtaking views of the California coastline. You might even spot some dolphins or sea lions along the way. And with the gentle waves lapping at the board, your dog will have a blast feeling the wind in their fur.

Finally, don't forget to capture the moment by taking some photos of you and your dog on the board. This is a memory that you'll both cherish for years to come.

In conclusion, stand-up paddleboarding at Goleta Beach is a fun and unique way to explore Santa Barbara with your dog. So grab a board, your furry friend, and set off on an adventure you won't soon forget!

Walk around State Street and explore dog-friendly shops

If you're looking for a great day out with your furry friend, then look no further than Santa Barbara. With its mild climate, stunning scenery and plenty of pet-friendly establishments, it's the perfect place to explore with your four-legged companion. One of the best ways to explore the city is to take a stroll down State Street, the main thoroughfare in downtown Santa Barbara. Here's what you can expect during your Santa Barbara adventure with your furry friend.

State Street is home to a wide range of shops, many of which allow dogs inside. This means you can browse to your heart's content while your canine companion explores, sniffs and investigates the different products available. Some of these shops even provide water bowls so your pup can stay hydrated while out and about. Walking down State Street, you'll find a great mix of local boutiques, art galleries, and national retailers. It's a great chance to grab a few souvenirs or find something unique for yourself, all while enjoying the company of your furry friend.

Some of the most dog-friendly shops on State Street include Noah's Anchorage, a pet supply store that offers a wide range of treats, toys, and accessories for your dog. Chef's Kitchen, a gourmet food store that is well-known for its dog-friendly policy, allows dogs to sample some delicious treats while their owners browse around. Sun & Selene, a jewelry store specializing in astrology-inspired pieces, also welcomes dogs inside with open arms.

If you're a book lover, be sure to check out Chaucer's Books, which is also dog-friendly, so you can browse through the latest fiction and non-fiction releases while your furry friend keeps you company. And if you're looking for some new artwork for your home, Opera Gallery offers an impressive collection of contemporary art and has no problem with you bringing your dog inside.

Of course, Santa Barbara is much more than just State Street. The surrounding areas offer plenty of dog-friendly experiences too, from beaches to hiking trails. When you're ready to take a break from walking and shopping, the nearby Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens offers a beautiful green space where you and your pup can relax and soak up the sun. The gardens are a popular spot for local dog owners to bring their pets, so your furry friend can mingle with some other pups.

If you're in the mood for a bit of exercise, Santa Barbara has plenty of hiking trails to explore with your furry friend too. Lookout Park near Summerland has a dog-friendly beach where you can enjoy a paddle in the sea with your canine companion, or if you're feeling a bit more adventurous, head to Tunnel Trailhead in the mountains above Santa Barbara and hike along the scenic ridgeline.

In conclusion, exploring Santa Barbara with your dog is a great way to spend a day. Taking a stroll down State Street and visiting the various dog-friendly shops is an essential part of any dog owner's itinerary. You can grab a bite to eat in many of the dog-friendly cafes and restaurants or simply enjoy a coffee while your pet relaxes by your side. With so many pet-friendly options available in Santa Barbara, it's the perfect place to enjoy a fun day out with your furry friend.

Relax in the sun at Chase Palm Park

If you're a dog owner living in or visiting Santa Barbara, you'll be glad to know that there are plenty of dog-friendly activities to enjoy. One of the best ways to relax with your pup in the sun is by heading down to Chase Palm Park.

Located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, Chase Palm Park is a popular spot for families, couples, and dog owners. The park is split into two sections by a creek, with a playground, picnic tables, and a beach on the north side, and a large grassy area and palm trees on the south side.

Dogs are welcome in most areas of the park but must remain leashed at all times, except in the designated off-leash dog area on the south side. The dog area is fully fenced and provides plenty of room for dogs to run and play while their owners relax on the grass.

One of the best things about Chase Palm Park is that it's located right next to the beach, making it easy to take a dip in the ocean on hot days. However, dogs are not allowed on the beach during the summer months (from Memorial Day to Labor Day), so be sure to check the regulations before heading down.

If you are looking for a more active way to enjoy the park, you can take advantage of the bike path that runs through it. The path leads to several other parks and beaches in Santa Barbara and is a great way to exercise with your pup while enjoying the scenic views.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a place to relax with your furry friend in Santa Barbara, Chase Palm Park is the perfect spot. With its sunny beach, grassy fields, and off-leash dog area, you and your pup are sure to have a good time. Just be sure to keep your dog leashed in the non-designated off-leash areas and check the beach regulations before heading out.

Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway

Dog owners know the sheer joy of being able to enjoy the outdoors with their furry friend. When it comes to traveling, finding dog-friendly destinations can be challenging. Santa Barbara, however, is a place that you and your dog will love. With a breathtaking coastline, dog-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and a rich cultural heritage, Santa Barbara offers a unique vacation experience for both you and your furry friend.

One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Santa Barbara with your dog is by driving along the Pacific Coast Highway. This scenic drive offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean as well as access to numerous dog-friendly spots where you and your dog can stop and explore.

Start your journey by driving northward on the Pacific Coast Highway from Santa Barbara. As you drive, you will come across various scenic spots that offer breathtaking views of the ocean. The first stop on your journey should be Gaviota State Park, located around 20 miles west of Santa Barbara. Here, you and your dog can take a hike on one of the many trails that wind their way through the park, including a trail that leads to a stunning coastal view.

Continuing northward, you will come across the quaint town of Solvang, which offers numerous dog-friendly cafes and shops. You can park your car and take a stroll through the town, admiring its unique architecture and soaking in the local culture as you go.

Next, head further north to the beautiful town of Pismo Beach, home to one of the most popular dog-friendly beaches in the area. Known for its wide, sandy beach, Pismo Beach welcomes dogs on leashes all year long, and your furry friend will love running and playing in the surf.

As you continue your drive north along the Pacific Coast Highway, you will come across other dog-friendly beaches and scenic viewpoints, including Avila Beach and Morro Bay. With so many different places to explore, you could easily spend days driving along the Pacific Coast Highway.

In conclusion, the scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Barbara is a must-do activity for dog owners seeking a vacation destination that offers a combination of stunning natural beauty and numerous dog-friendly spots to explore. By taking a little bit of time to plan your journey, you and your furry friend will have a memorable experience that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Visit the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

If you're looking for a place to visit in Santa Barbara where you can enjoy a pleasant walk with your furry friend, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a must-see destination. Located just a few miles from downtown, the garden offers a picturesque setting, a diverse array of flora and fauna, and plenty of opportunities for you and your dog to stretch your legs.

Here are a few reasons why the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is the perfect place to visit with your dog:

The garden is dog-friendly.

Unlike many parks and public gardens that have strict rules about dogs, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden welcomes well-behaved canine companions. As long as your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them, they are welcome to join you on your walk through the garden.

There are plenty of trails to explore.

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden covers more than 78 acres, and there are miles of trails to explore. Whether you and your dog are looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, you'll find a trail that suits your needs. Along the way, you'll see a wide variety of California flora, from colorful wildflowers to towering redwoods.

You'll learn about the local ecology.

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is dedicated to preserving the native plants and animals of California. As you explore the garden with your dog, you'll be able to learn about the local ecology and the efforts being made to protect it. With exhibits showcasing the plants and animals of California and educational programs for both adults and children, the garden is a great place to learn about the natural world.

The garden is a peaceful retreat.

If you're looking for a quiet and tranquil place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is the perfect destination. With its lush gardens, babbling creeks, and stunning views of the Santa Ynez Mountains, the garden offers a serene atmosphere that is perfect for relaxing with your dog.

Overall, if you're planning a trip to Santa Barbara with your furry friend, be sure to put the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden on your itinerary. With its dog-friendly policies, stunning scenery, and educational exhibits, it's the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful and informative walk with your four-legged companion.

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