The Best Short Hiking Trails in Santa Barbara County

By Jane Chan

Residents of Santa Barbara are lucky to have access to some of the best hiking trails in the state. If you’re planning a trip here or want to check out local hikes and expand your Californian horizons, this guide is for you.

Here’s our round-up of some of the best short hikes in Santa Barbara County for hikers of all abilities:

Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry’s Beach) Loop

If you love the ocean, Arroyo Burro Beach is a great place to go for a sunrise or sunset. And for those who want to stretch their legs, there is also an easy, 0.74-mile hiking trail nearby that leads you through dunes and a few wildflowers and keeps the ocean in view.

It’s best to visit this beach early in the morning before it gets super busy, and the same holds for the loop track, which is packed on the weekends and holidays.

Lizard’s Mouth Rock Formation

As the name suggests, this hike takes you to a rock that looks like a lizard’s mouth. From the beginning, follow an old road that takes you through a tunnel; at the fork in the road, you can choose to go left or right. Bear right to access Lizard’s Mouth. Be warned that both short trails present challenges for those with mobility issues or those who do not have solid knees or angles.

Lizard’s Mouth Rock Formation offers incredible views over Santa Barbara Harbor and Channel Islands National Park, so don’t let the short climb put you off if you’re capable!

Inspiration Point Trail

This hike is a great way to get the panoramic views California’s hills are famous for.

Expect to climb up through a forested area (some of it quite steep), with views back toward town as you go, and spend around two hours walking the 3.4 miles there and back.

Considered a moderate hike, you’ll want plenty of water and a good pair of shoes.

What to Pack for Your Santa Barbara Hikes

Before you hit the trail, there are a few things you should always bring with you: pack sunscreen, hiking shoes, water, a hat, and sunglasses. Snacks are also recommended for extended hikes.

You may want to take along some first aid essentials like bandages and antiseptic wipes, as well as a map and compass in emergencies.

Are you heading out for one of Santa Barbara’s longer multi-day hikes? Make sure you take a tech survival kit that contains a personal locator beacon. You’ll also want an emergency blanket in case it gets cold at night on your hike or if someone falls ill during the day. Toilet paper (because nature always calls while out on the trail) is always useful, as is some hand sanitizer.

We hope this list has inspired you to get out there and explore the trails of Santa Barbara County. Whether you’re looking for a new hiking trail or just want to have fun on the beach, you have options in Santa Barbara.