East Mesa Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Popular places to visit
Shoreline Park
Shoreline Park is just one of the places to see in Santa Barbara, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the top-notch restaurants in this walkable area or seek out the cycling trails.
Santa Barbara Zoo
Why not meet the animals who call Santa Barbara Zoo home during your holiday in Santa Barbara? Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Santa Barbara Harbor
Explore the waterfront in Santa Barbara with a trip to Santa Barbara Harbor. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
See the best views of Santa Barbara and enjoy a stunning variety of architectural styles at the city’s historic courthouse.
Upper State Street
During your visit to Santa Barbara, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Upper State Street. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its cosy cafes.
Butterfly Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Butterfly Beach during your travels in Santa Barbara? Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Activities
Santa Barbara: Full-Day 7-Speed Bike Rental with Area Map
Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board Rental
Santa Barbara: Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop
Our pick of the best East Mesa Hotel Deals
Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn
Nice Stay and plenty of variety for breakfast
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Hotel Santa Barbara
Nice staff, very convenient location, smaller rooms
Reviewed on 14 Jan 2026
Sandpiper Lodge
My stay at Sandpiper Lodge went very well. Bed was great and the room was very clean. The location itself is very close to downtown Santa Barbara.
Reviewed on 16 Jan 2026
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Clean room, very spaciuos, friendly and patient staff. Nice breakfast
Reviewed on 15 Jan 2026
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Definitely one the better hotels I've used on this trip. Not a great view but onsight parking was a must for me and the room was newly remodeled, fresh, and modern. Warm jacuzzi and decent breakfast. Only one block from the main street to pick up a bike path.
Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026
Inn By The Harbor
nice hotel
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around East Mesa
The Mesa
While visiting The Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Leadbetter Beach and Arroyo Burro Beach.
Alta Mesa
When in Alta Mesa, you can plan a visit to 1000 Steps Beach and Leadbetter Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
West Beach
If you're spending some time in West Beach, Santa Barbara Harbor and Carriage and Western Art Museum are top sights worth seeing.
West Mesa
While there might not be top attractions in West Mesa, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Arroyo Burro Beach and Leadbetter Beach.
Lower State
While visiting Lower State, you might make a stop by sights like MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation and Paseo Nuevo Mall.
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Historic Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Granada Theatre might round out your trip.
