The Mesa Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Popular places to visit
Arroyo Burro Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Arroyo Burro Beach during your travels in Santa Barbara? Take in the entertainment choices and sunsets in the area.
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 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.
Santa Barbara Bowl
Enjoy a show at Santa Barbara Bowl, a popular theatre in Santa Barbara. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
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.
Activities
Santa Barbara: Beach and Coastline Helicopter Tour
Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara: Full-Day 7-Speed Bike Rental with Area Map
Our pick of the best The Mesa Hotel Deals
Hotel Santa Barbara
Very nicely remodeled & refurbished old hotel. Great location on State Street - lots of restaurants, bars, and interesting shops. Walking distance to wharf & some historical sites. Hotel could use some sheer shades on windows. Only choice was "no shades/windows totally uncovered," or black out shades ...
Reviewed on 14 May 2026
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Room was clean but the hotel is a little outdated, staff was excellent and the morning spread as very fresh and delicious
Reviewed on 16 May 2026
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Spectacular scenery, so polite and kind and supportive staff, affordable, and cozy.
Reviewed on 16 May 2026
Sandpiper Lodge
Staff was friendly and helpful. Ample parking, breakfast was provided, slightly more than continental.
Reviewed on 16 May 2026
The Milo
Hotel was an easy walk to State St, the Funk Zone and directly across the street from the Bay and Wharf. Though on a very bust street, noise was tolerable. Staff was incredible, especially Jeramiah at the front desk who went above and beyond to satisfy our room needs.
Reviewed on 14 May 2026
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
Everything was perfect. Beach across the street. Bikes available for a quiet ride. Fun time. S’mores on the fire with a beach view. Hard to beat. Back soon!
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around The Mesa
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.
East Mesa
If you're spending some time in East Mesa, Leadbetter Beach and 1000 Steps Beach are top sights worth seeing.
West Mesa
While visiting West Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Arroyo Burro Beach and Mesa Lane Steps Beach.
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.
Westside
While Westside isn't home to many top sights, Arlington Theater and Santa Barbara Public Market are some notable places to visit nearby.
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 Paseo Nuevo Mall might round out your trip.
