Things to do in Goleta

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Visit Goleta

Types of activities

Goleta Travel Guide

C95MX5 Preserved railroad station in Goleta, California

NA, USA, California, Santa Barbara, Goleta; Sandpiper Golf Course

An hour long boat ride away from Oxnard harbor, Anacapa Island is the second smallest island in the Channel Islands National Park. It has spectacular sunset and sunrise views and has dark blue clear water to kayak, snorkel or scuba dive. Has historical importance of Chumash tribe believing that human life originated on these islands. A must go for a nice overnight camping, be sure to carry water and eatables with you. There are absolutely no stores of any kind on the mile long island.

Explore activities
Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
Book with ease
Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
Treat yourself
Members save % or more when you book activities.

Tours & day trips

See all 98 activities

Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

Private & custom tours

See all 36 activities

Self Guided Walking Tour of Solvang: Discover the Danish Charm

Free cancellation available

Water activities

See all 10 activities

Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

Free cancellation available

What to do in Goleta

Discover the most popular places to visit in Goleta

Santa Barbara, United States - Febriary 16, 2018: Panorama Skyline of University California Santa Barbara seen from across Goleta Bay off Goleta Pier. Blue water and sky. Henley Gate on the right.

University of California, Santa Barbara

4.5/5(586 reviews)

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit University of California, Santa Barbara, during your travels in Goleta. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the biking trails.

Isla Vista Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Isla Vista Beach during your trip to Goleta?

El Capitan State Beach

4.5/5(148 reviews)

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at El Capitan State Beach during your travels in Goleta? While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

A group of Birds play on the ocean surf - Blue skies on a summer day

Refugio State Beach

4.5/5(21 reviews)

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Refugio State Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Goleta. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Short walk from parking, very scenic little spot.

Nojoqui Falls Park

4.5/5(17 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Nojoqui Falls Park, a lovely green space in Goleta. Check out the casinos and wineries in this walkable area.

You can walk for miles and not see another person! This is an old pier that has largely been abandoned after a storm took out part of it. #Festival

Gaviota Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Gaviota Beach during your trip to Gaviota?

Couldn’t resist this rock formation that looks like an eye. Had my wife complete the Iris.

Gaviota State Park

You can take time to visit Gaviota State Park during your travels to Goleta. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Sandpiper Golf Club

4.5/5(12 reviews)

Play a round of golf in Goleta at Sandpiper Golf Club, and enjoy other activities such as biking. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.

UC SB Events Center

Catch an event at UC SB Events Center during your trip to Goleta.

Popular day trips from Goleta

Buellton

Flower fields along W. Ocean Ave. towards Surf Beach.

Lompoc

Solvang

Santa Ynez

United States of America which includes farmland

Santa Barbara

Frequently asked questions

Is Goleta worth visiting?

One of the most common things to do in Goleta is explore Stearns Wharf. Tick this major attraction off your to-do list, then experience more of this area's markets and family-friendly attractions.

How do I spend a day in Goleta?

Once you've visited leading attractions like Stearns Wharf and Santa Barbara Natural History Museum, spend some time discovering Goleta's shopping and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Goleta?

The top tourist attraction in Goleta is Stearns Wharf, so make sure to put it on your sightseeing itinerary.

Is three days enough to stay in Goleta?

Three days in Goleta is enough to visit the city's key attractions. Many travelers stay for two days on average. Hendrys Beach, Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park and More Mesa Beach are among the most popular sights. Want to see more? Hang around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Santa Barbara.

Is Goleta a walkable city?

If discovering on foot sounds like your kind of vacation, Goleta is an ideal destination. Find major sights, including More Mesa Beach, within walking distance of downtown. You can also enjoy a stroll through Isla Vista, a vibrant neighborhood located about 3 kilometers from downtown.

What are some activities to do in Goleta with kids?

Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a fun-filled itinerary takes your trip to the next level. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Goleta with kids.

What to do in Goleta for adults?

There's no shortage of things to do in Goleta, with experiences for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at UC SB Events Center or Cold Spring Tavern.

Are there free things to do in Goleta?

From enjoying parks to strolling around hip neighborhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Goleta. If you're in need of ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Hendrys Beach is a great spot for anyone wishing to save on their travel adventures.