Butterfly Beach: Montecito's Coastal Gem
Experience the allure of Butterfly Beach in Montecito: stunning views, celebrity sightings, and a relaxed coastal vibe await!
Butterfly Beach, nestled in Montecito, California, is a beloved spot known for its stunning ocean views, celebrity sightings, and relaxed atmosphere. This south-facing beach offers a unique perspective, showcasing both sunrises and sunsets over the water. With its pristine shoreline and gentle waves, it's a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Butterfly Beach
- Montecito, California, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can be limited.
- Bring your own food and drinks, as there are no public facilities on the beach.
- Check the tide charts before visiting to take advantage of the long walks to neighboring beaches during low tide.
- Keep an eye out for celebrity sightings, as Montecito is home to many famous residents.
- Bring your dog along for a walk on the beach, but be sure to keep them on a leash.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 101, take the Olive Mill Road exit towards the ocean. Olive Mill Road turns into Channel Drive near the Four Seasons Biltmore Resort. Continue past the resort and look for parking along Channel Drive or Butterfly Lane. Parking is free but can be limited, especially on weekends. Cost: Free street parking along Channel Drive and Butterfly Lane.
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Public Transport
The nearest bus stop to Butterfly Beach is Coast Village & Olive Mill. From there, it's a short walk to the beach. Several bus lines serve this stop, including the 20, 80, and 14. Cost: A single ride on Santa Barbara MTD buses is typically around $1-2.
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Walking
From Coast Village Road, walk towards the ocean on Olive Mill Road, which turns into Channel Drive. Continue along Channel Drive past the Four Seasons Biltmore Resort. Butterfly Beach will be on your left, across the street from the resort. Cost: Free
Discover more about Butterfly Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
East Beach
2.0 km
Discover Santa Barbara's vibrant East Beach: a historic oceanfront playground with volleyball, scenic bike paths, and stunning mountain views, perfect for sun, fun, and relaxation.
Santa Barbara Trolley
3.5 km
Experience the beauty of Santa Barbara from the comfort of the Trolley, your guide to the city's history, culture, and breathtaking sights.
Funk Zone Studios
3.7 km
Explore the vibrant Funk Zone Studios in Santa Barbara, where art, photography, and creativity come together in a colorful coastal atmosphere.
Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours
3.7 km
Discover the scenic beauty and exquisite wines of Santa Barbara with guided tours through California's charming wine country.
Fess Parker Funk Zone
3.7 km
Experience the acclaimed wines of Fess Parker Winery in the heart of Santa Barbara's Funk Zone, a vibrant arts district offering a modern tasting experience and a taste of local wine heritage.
Area 5.1 Winery
3.8 km
Discover unconventional wine blends in a quirky, alien-themed tasting room located in Santa Barbara's Funk Zone, offering an out-of-this-world experience with live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
Waterfront Santa Barbara
3.8 km
Discover Santa Barbara's vibrant waterfront: historic Stearns Wharf, bustling harbor, scenic beaches, and endless ocean adventures await along California's captivating coast.
Veterans' Memorial Building
3.9 km
A historic waterfront landmark honoring veterans and serving as a vibrant community hub in Santa Barbara, hosting events and offering stunning ocean views.
Syuxtun Story Circle
4.0 km
Discover the Syuxtun Story Circle on Santa Barbara's West Beach: a vibrant mosaic celebrating the Chumash people's history, culture, and enduring connection to the land.
Burton Mound State Historical Landmark
4.0 km
Discover the historical landmark of Burton Mound in Santa Barbara, the site of the ancient Chumash village of Syujtun, and reflect on the rich cultural heritage of the California coast.
Andalucia Building
4.1 km
Discover the Andalucia Building in Santa Barbara: A unique Moorish-style landmark on State Street, blending history, architecture, and downtown charm for an unforgettable experience.
Santa Barbara Historic Lndmrk
4.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Santa Barbara Historic Landmark, a treasured symbol of the city’s rich heritage.
Faith Mission
4.2 km
Discover the historical essence of Santa Barbara at Faith Mission, a captivating landmark that reflects California's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Cold Spring Trailhead
4.3 km
Discover the natural beauty of Montecito at Cold Spring Trailhead, offering scenic hiking trails, seasonal waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands.
Rafael González House
4.4 km
Explore the historical charm of Rafael González House, a stunning example of Spanish-Moorish architecture in Santa Barbara's Laguna neighborhood.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Spa at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara
0.6 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and relaxation at The Spa, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, a serene escape in California's stunning coastal paradise.
Andree Clark Bird Refuge
0.9 km
Visit the Andree Clark Bird Refuge in Santa Barbara for a tranquil nature experience with diverse bird species and scenic walking paths.
Santa Barbara Zoo
1.7 km
Explore the Santa Barbara Zoo, a delightful blend of wildlife and gardens set against breathtaking coastal views in California.
Casa del Herrero
2.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene gardens of Casa del Herrero, a historical gem in Montecito rich with California's heritage.
Santa Barbara Chromatic Gate
2.4 km
Discover the Santa Barbara Chromatic Gate, a vibrant public art installation that enhances the coastal beauty of Santa Barbara, perfect for photos and exploration.
Santa Barbara Bikes To-Go
2.7 km
Discover Santa Barbara's stunning coastline and charming streets by bike at Santa Barbara Bikes To-Go, the ultimate rental experience for tourists.
Cal Coast Adventures
2.7 km
Explore the stunning Santa Barbara coastline with Cal Coast Adventures, your go-to destination for kayaking, surfing, and outdoor fun.
Lotusland
2.9 km
Discover the enchanting beauty and diverse flora of Lotusland, Montecito's premier botanical garden and a haven for plant lovers.
Chase Palm Park
3.1 km
Discover the beauty of Chase Palm Park in Santa Barbara, a perfect blend of scenic views, family-friendly attractions, and coastal tranquility.
Shipwreck Playground
3.2 km
Discover Shipwreck Playground, a unique maritime-themed play haven in Santa Barbara, perfect for family adventures by the beach.
Eat This Shoot That!
3.4 km
Discover Santa Barbara's culinary delights at Eat This Shoot That! - a unique food tour experience on Stearns Wharf, perfect for foodies and travelers alike.
Lil' Toot Santa Barbara
3.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Santa Barbara's coastline with a delightful boat ride aboard Lil' Toot, where adventure meets scenic tranquility.
217 Stearns Wharf
3.4 km
Experience the historic Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara for stunning ocean views, delightful dining, and unique shopping adventures.
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center
3.4 km
Discover marine life and natural history at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, where education meets adventure on Stearns Wharf.
Stearns Wharf
3.5 km
Discover the charm of Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara's historic waterfront destination with stunning views, exquisite dining, and engaging marine activities.
Essential places to dine
Tre Lune
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Tre Lune in Montecito - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and hospitality.
Oliver's
0.6 km
Experience innovative plant-based cuisine at Oliver's in Montecito - where every dish is a celebration of flavor and freshness.
Honor Bar
0.8 km
Experience the best of New American cuisine at Honor Bar in Montecito - where flavor meets elegance in a stunning coastal setting.
Lucky's
0.9 km
Discover Lucky's in Montecito: A premier steakhouse offering exquisite American cuisine and fresh seafood in an elegant setting.
Coast & Olive
0.9 km
Experience the best of Californian fine dining at Coast & Olive in Santa Barbara – where fresh ingredients meet exceptional service.
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants: Montecito
0.9 km
Discover an exclusive sushi haven in Montecito where culinary artistry meets personalized service for an unforgettable dining experience.
Stella Mare's
1.0 km
Experience exquisite French dining at Stella Mare's in Santa Barbara - where culinary art meets coastal beauty.
Reunion Kitchen + Drink Santa Barbara
1.8 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Reunion Kitchen + Drink, where beachside dining meets local flavors in Santa Barbara.
Convivo Restaurant & Bar
2.1 km
Discover exquisite Italian cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Convivo Restaurant & Bar in Santa Barbara.
Pane E Vino Trattoria
2.7 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Pane E Vino Trattoria - where every dish is a celebration of flavor and tradition in Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
3.4 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Santa Barbara Shellfish Company on Stearns Wharf – where ocean views meet culinary excellence.
Moby Dick Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood and stunning coastal views at Moby Dick Restaurant in Santa Barbara's iconic Stearns Wharf.
Longboard's Grill
3.5 km
Experience exquisite American and seafood dishes at Longboard's Grill while enjoying breathtaking views on Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara FisHouse
3.6 km
Discover exquisite seafood and breathtaking ocean views at Santa Barbara FisHouse - where every meal is a coastal celebration.
The Nook Santa Barbara
3.6 km
Discover modern American cuisine at The Nook Santa Barbara – where flavors meet coastal charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Whiskey & Leather
0.4 km
Discover stylish clothing and antique treasures at Whiskey & Leather in Santa Barbara, a boutique that blends modern fashion with vintage charm.
Legacy
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at Legacy, the charming gift shop in Montecito, California.
Lily
0.5 km
Explore Lily, the enchanting gift shop in Montecito, offering unique treasures and souvenirs that capture the coastal charm of California.
Angel Montecito
0.5 km
Explore Angel Montecito, a premier women's clothing boutique in Santa Barbara, offering unique styles that capture the essence of California's coastal charm.
Clic Montecito
0.6 km
Discover contemporary art, home goods, and women's fashion at Clic Montecito, an inspiring destination in Santa Barbara's beautiful Montecito.
Montecito Country Mart
0.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of shopping, dining, and local culture at Montecito Country Mart, a true gem in California's coastal paradise.
Mate Gallery
0.6 km
Explore Mate Gallery in Santa Barbara for an unforgettable boutique shopping experience featuring exquisite local and international art.
Maison K
0.7 km
Explore Maison K: A Boutique of Unique Women's Fashion and Accessories in Santa Barbara, Perfect for Style Enthusiasts.
Allora by Laura
0.8 km
Discover stylish apparel and accessories at Allora by Laura, the must-visit boutique in Santa Barbara for unique fashion finds.
Imagine
2.7 km
Explore Imagine in Santa Barbara for unique gifts, local artistry, and a memorable shopping experience in a charming atmosphere.
Deep Blue Sea
3.4 km
Explore Deep Blue Sea, the ultimate gift shop in Santa Barbara for unique ocean-themed souvenirs and local crafts.
Old Wharf Trading Co
3.5 km
Explore Old Wharf Trading Co on Stearns Wharf, where unique gifts and local artisan treasures await every visitor in Santa Barbara.
Jules by the Sea - FUNK ZONE
3.7 km
Explore the vibrant Funk Zone at Jules by the Sea, a charming gift shop offering unique souvenirs and locally crafted treasures.
Loveworn
3.7 km
Experience the perfect fusion of fashion and art at Loveworn in Santa Barbara, where every piece tells a story of creativity and culture.
Dylan Star Boutique
3.7 km
Explore the unique styles of Dylan Star Boutique, a women's clothing store in Santa Barbara, offering curated fashion and local artisan finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ty Lounge
0.6 km
Experience the sophisticated ambiance of Ty Lounge, a premier cocktail and wine bar in Santa Barbara, featuring live music and artisanal drinks.
Folded Hills Montecito Tasting Room
1.0 km
Discover the flavors of California's wine country at Folded Hills Montecito Tasting Room, where exceptional wines and gourmet delights await.
Mar Vista
1.8 km
Experience the cozy ambiance of Mar Vista, a premier lounge in Santa Barbara, where stunning ocean views and delicious drinks await you.
Miramar Beach Bar
1.9 km
Experience the serene allure of Miramar Beach Bar in Montecito, where stunning ocean views meet exquisite cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Manor Bar
1.9 km
Discover a charming cocktail experience at The Manor Bar in Montecito, where literary-inspired drinks meet a cozy atmosphere.
Brass Bear Brewing & Bistro
3.6 km
Discover the best of Santa Barbara's craft beer scene at Brass Bear Brewing & Bistro, where delicious food meets a relaxing beer garden experience.
STUDIO Bar & Soundroom
3.6 km
Discover the lively STUDIO Bar & Soundroom in Santa Barbara, where live music, creative cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Pearl Social Santa Barbara
3.8 km
Experience the best of Santa Barbara's nightlife at Pearl Social, a lively cocktail bar with innovative drinks and live music in a vibrant atmosphere.
Test Pilot
3.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Test Pilot, the ultimate cocktail bar in Santa Barbara, California.
The Speakeasy
4.0 km
Discover The Speakeasy in Montecito, a luxurious bar offering exquisite cocktails and live music in a charming, intimate setting.
Shaker Mill
4.2 km
Experience innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere at Shaker Mill, the go-to cocktail bar in Santa Barbara's Lower State neighborhood.
Whiskey Richards
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Richards, Santa Barbara's beloved bar with live music, pool tables, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Santa Barbara Wine Therapy
4.3 km
Experience the ultimate wine journey at Santa Barbara Wine Therapy, a charming bar offering exquisite local and international wines paired with delectable bites.
Dusk Bar
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santa Barbara at Dusk Bar, where creative cocktails and a relaxing atmosphere await every visitor.
Unbearable Skee Lodge
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Unbearable Skee Lodge, where craft beer meets fun arcade games in Santa Barbara's lively bar scene.
