Butterfly Beach: Montecito's Coastal Gem
Experience stunning sunsets and laid-back luxury at Butterfly Beach, Montecito's iconic coastal escape. Dog-friendly and celebrity-approved!
Butterfly Beach, nestled in Montecito, is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Known for its stunning sunsets, dog-friendly atmosphere, and occasional celebrity sightings, this beach offers a blend of natural beauty and laid-back luxury. Its unique west-facing orientation provides breathtaking views, making it a must-see destination.
A brief summary to Butterfly Beach
- Montecito, California, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking along Channel Drive or Butterfly Lane.
- Bring your own beach essentials, as there are no public restrooms or facilities directly on the beach.
- Visit during low tide for a long walk along the sandy shore connecting to nearby beaches.
- Take advantage of the west-facing orientation and stay for the breathtaking sunset views.
- Keep an eye out for potential celebrity sightings, as Montecito is home to many famous residents.
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. Continue along Channel Drive until you reach Butterfly Beach on your left. Parking is available along Channel Drive and Butterfly Lane, but it can be limited, especially on weekends. Parking is free along Channel Drive. However, due to limited availability, especially on weekends, you may need to park further away in the residential neighborhoods.
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Public Transport
Take bus line 20 or 80 to the Coast Village & Olive Mill stop. From there, walk towards the ocean on Olive Mill Road, which turns into Channel Drive. Continue along Channel Drive until you reach Butterfly Beach on your left. A single bus fare is $1.75.
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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, passing the Four Seasons Biltmore, until you reach Butterfly Beach on your left.
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
Discover a serene sanctuary at The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Santa Barbara, where luxury meets tranquility for an unforgettable wellness experience.
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
Experience the vibrant artistry of Santa Barbara Chromatic Gate, a colorful landmark that captures the essence of coastal beauty and creativity.
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 California's oldest working wharf in Santa Barbara: dining, shopping, stunning views, and marine adventures await!
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
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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
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Maison K
0.7 km
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Allora by Laura
0.8 km
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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
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Loveworn
3.7 km
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Dylan Star Boutique
3.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ty Lounge
0.6 km
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Folded Hills Montecito Tasting Room
1.0 km
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Mar Vista
1.8 km
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Miramar Beach Bar
1.9 km
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The Manor Bar
1.9 km
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Brass Bear Brewing & Bistro
3.6 km
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STUDIO Bar & Soundroom
3.6 km
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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.
