Location: Isla Vista
Top Things to do in Isla Vista
Top 10 Things to do in Isla Vista, United States
Isla Vista is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Santa Barbara County, California in the United States. As of the 2010 census, the CDP had a population of 23,096. The majority of residents are college students at nearby University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB, located to the east of the community) or at Santa Barbara City College. The beachside community lies on a flat plateau about 30 feet (9 m) in elevation, separated from the beach by a bluff.
Restaurants in Isla Vista
1. Goleta Beach
Overall Ratings
4 based on 144 reviews
A long sandy beach near Goleta Point.
Reviewed By Miranda C - Newport Beach, California
My favorite part about this place is there are benches very close to the water. When sitting, you get to see the never-ending ocean accompanied by blue sky and sun. The breeze adds to the scene, and it is also a great place to just relax. The pier is also nice, but I would say not as nice as the beach. A pleasant walk is all it has to offer. The wood is uneven and easy to trip. Fishing is an activity to do, but some fishers swear-- be careful around children. Although another plus is that you can get quite close to seagulls and pigeons, and they won't be fazed. It takes more than walking by them to disturb them. It is really the beach that makes Goleta worth visiting.
2. UCSB Lagoon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 11 reviews
Reviewed By lfiebert - Lansdale, Pennsylvania
Since we did not have a car, the shuttle from our hotel dropped us at The UCSB campus which was short walk to the trail around the lagoon. The Lagoon trail was a fascinating brief wildlife experience which allowed us to see several Great Blue Heron, a few grebes, and many cormorants. After walking around the lagoon, we continued on the trail that skirts the dunes along the shoreline. We were able to see some lovely colorful wild flowers and other plants. The views of the ocean were often quite amazing. We spent an enjoyable two hours and had a good time.
3. Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Designed by William Mooser III in the Spanish-Moorish architectural style, this working courthouse is surrounded by landscaped gardens and lawns.
Reviewed By Annick831 - Ventura, California
This is a free tour to do in Santa Barbara! It's a beautiful building, during opening hours you can pop your head in some of the surrounding attached buildings and offices, it's well worth exploring. Don't be surprise to see a wedding ceremony happening on the grounds or an engagement picture shoot (especially during the weekend) it's such a beautiful place... Climb to the top to see a wonderful view of the city, the ocean (on a clear day), the mission, etc. If you climb by stairs you will see the clock room with the bells that rings every hour.
4. Goleta Butterfly Grove
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 74 reviews
The Goleta Butterfly Grove is currently closed to public access. The Ellwood Mesa has a significant number of dead and dying trees that are at risk for falling. The City is working on a Monarch Butterfly Habitat Management Plan to restore this area as a overwintering location for these beautiful creatures
Reviewed By David L - Goleta, California
This and "Coronado Butterfly Preserve" are essentially the same place. A long drought has killed many trees and caused damage to plants. As a result, some of the trails are considered by the City to be in danger of falling trees. Despite that, it is a charming open space with easily accessible trails and beautiful views. What I like the most is the quiet and natural surroundings. For now I am giving a four. It will return to a five when the area heals after a few more years of normal rain.
5. Coronado Butterfly Preserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 35 reviews
Reviewed By OldOldBob - Gallatin, Tennessee
Those who were here in the 1980's remember the trees covered with life. Now a remnant returns but may not persist. Before the eucalyptus trees were introduced they were not here and now milkweed is disappearing. Still not to be missed.
6. Reagan Ranch Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 231 reviews
The Reagan Ranch Center in downtown Santa Barbara, California is open to the general public for tours and visitation Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. These galleries feature original Reagan Ranch artifacts matched with state-of-the-art, interactive, multimedia exhibits that highlight the history of Ronald Reagan’s quarter-century at Rancho del Cielo and the accomplishments of his presidency.Over six hours of dynamic multimedia exhibits provide access to exclusive speeches, interviews, radio addresses, and original video presentations. The centerpiece of the gallery is a 28-foot-long interactive “timeline” that gives users the ability to explore the “Western White House” during the 1980s.
Reviewed By RGTravelIng - Rochester, Minnesota
Worth a quick stop to learn more about the Ranch of Regan. This is not an equivalent to the Reagan Library in Simi Vally. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. It’s free easy to navigate. Couple of videos worth watching. Overall if you want more info on the Regan years do stop. Only takes an our or so.
7. Fairview Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 20 reviews
Come visit the farm! Founded in 1895, Fairview Gardens is one of the oldest organic farms in southern California and preserved for all to enjoy. Fairview Gardens is a non-profit organization and plays a unique role in the community, providing its neighbors with food, educational events, and a connection to the land. Pack a picnic, visit our farm stand, and take a self-guided tour through our fruit orchards and open space. Bring a camera and get ready for some delicious fun.
Reviewed By Loveworldtravel - Santa Barbara, California
I love buying produce, bread, and eggs at Fairview Gardens. We've been customers for well over a decade. The fruit and veggies are as fresh as can be. Some years back, we asked if eggs were available. They said we can come back in a little while because the hens were still sitting on them. The hens get to run around outside the cage much of the day. The food is excellent.
8. Cold Spring Tavern
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 460 reviews
A popular mountain for hiking outside of Santa Barbara.
Reviewed By Gerry H
This is a lace worth visiting, especially on the weekend when they BBQ tri-tip outside on the grill. Then there is the local bands that play, and a tone of bikers in a serene setting
9. Santa Barbara Island
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By rita2seahorse - Ventura, California
It's a beautiful place to see in nature. I've seen the island as part of a whale watch and tour. If you get a chance to visit this island, I would take it.
10. Rancho La Patera & Stow House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17 reviews
aka Stow House or Rancho La Patera
Reviewed By OldOldBob - Gallatin, Tennessee
We lived nearby in the 1970's and walked the lake trails many an afternoon. Over the years the house and lawn have been the site of many weddings and community events. Today the drought has brought the lake low, but the many acres still provide a scenic ramble.
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