When you're ready to take a rest from all that exhausting sightseeing, get some fresh air and sunshine at El Capitan Lake. Bring a few snacks or a good book ... Whatever helps you relax!

This Historic Downtown Santa Barbara body of water is an interesting place to start your day of sightseeing. There's plenty to explore in the vicinity, such as Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Mission Santa Barbara, and Presidio Santa Barbara. Wander around at your leisure at El Capitan Lake before heading to these other fine sights.

Plan a trip to see El Capitan Lake

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Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

Downtown Santa Barbara

$862

per person

Dec 14 - Dec 19

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Atlanta (ATL) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

8.4/10 Very Good! (373 reviews)

Quirky hotel with digital check in with reception desk on the street & use PIN code instead of a key to get in room. Made the most of a small room by including a fridge & glass surround shower in middle of room, however the bed only had one way of getting in & out so not easy for couples who may have to climb over their sleeping partner. Lighting very bad for doing makeup as me & my two friends found out who were in other rooms. Friendly staff and ideal location for walking to the beach, going out for dinner and shopping.

Reviewed on Sep 20, 2025

Tide Pool Villas

Santa Barbara Beach

Save 100% on your flight

$1,140

per person

Nov 13 - Nov 19

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Portland (PDX) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

6.2/10 (72 reviews)

This is a 5 star location but a 2 star property.

Reviewed on Jun 23, 2025

Secret Garden Inn and Cottages

Oak Park

$884

per person

Dec 14 - Dec 19

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Atlanta (ATL) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

8/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)

Great place to stay in Santa Barbara.

Reviewed on Oct 4, 2025

Browse tours and tickets to explore El Capitan Lake

Tours & day trips

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Los Angeles Day Trip to Santa Barbara via Oxnard-Amtrak Coast Starlight

Free cancellation available

History & culture

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Los Angeles Day Trip to Santa Barbara via Oxnard-Amtrak Coast Starlight

Free cancellation available

Water activities

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Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

Free cancellation available

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

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Santa Barbara: Beach and Coastline Helicopter Tour

Free cancellation available

Wildlife & nature

See all 3 activities

Santa Barbara: Trolley Tour

Free cancellation available

Popular places to visit

Paseo Nuevo Mall

You can enjoy retail therapy at Paseo Nuevo Mall during your trip to Santa Barbara. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Presidio Santa Barbara

You can study the exhibits at Presidio Santa Barbara, a museum with a story of its own, during your travels to Santa Barbara. Stroll along the area's waterfront, or simply savor its top-notch restaurants.

El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park

Visit this historic landmark to learn about the colonization of the city and see a stunning reconstruction of the colonial era.

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.

Moreton Bay Fig Tree

Explore the lovely green spaces of Moreton Bay Fig Tree and also enjoy the biking trails in Santa Barbara. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Old school theater now featuring Joe Bonamassa!

Arlington Theater

Get tickets for a show at Arlington Theater, a storied theater in Santa Barbara. Stroll along the area's waterfront or experience its lively festivals.