Discover the Santa Barbara Zoo: A Gem of Nature and Conservation
Experience the wonders of wildlife at Santa Barbara Zoo—where conservation meets adventure in a stunning garden setting.
A brief summary to Santa Barbara Zoo
- 500 Ninos Dr, Santa Barbara, East Beach, California, 93103, US
- +1805-962-5339
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
The Santa Barbara Zoo, a delightful haven located in the picturesque city of Santa Barbara, California, invites visitors to explore its lush gardens and diverse animal exhibits. Spanning over 30 acres, this intimate zoo is home to more than 500 animals representing species from around the globe, including exotic birds, playful primates, and majestic big cats. The zoo's design emphasizes natural habitats, allowing guests to appreciate wildlife in a serene and beautiful setting. One of the standout features of the Santa Barbara Zoo is its commitment to conservation and education. The zoo participates in numerous breeding programs for endangered species and offers educational programs for visitors of all ages. Children will especially enjoy the interactive exhibits, including animal encounters and the opportunity to learn about wildlife preservation. The zoo also boasts a lovely garden area, making it an ideal spot to relax amidst nature. Plan your visit to coincide with one of the many special events hosted throughout the year, from animal feeding demonstrations to seasonal festivities. Be sure to take a stroll along the paths that offer stunning views of the nearby mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're a local or a tourist, the Santa Barbara Zoo is a must-visit destination that combines enjoyment with education, all in a charming and friendly atmosphere.
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and see the animals at their most active.
- Check the schedule for animal feeding times and talks for an engaging experience.
- Don’t forget your camera! The zoo's picturesque setting is perfect for memorable photos.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas, making for a relaxing lunch amidst nature.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're in Montecito, you can enjoy a scenic walk to Santa Barbara Zoo. Start by heading south on San Ysidro Road until you reach the intersection with East Valley Road. Turn left onto East Valley Road. Continue walking until you reach the intersection with Coast Village Road. Take a right on Coast Village Road and follow it as it turns into Olive Mill Road. This road will lead you down to the oceanfront. Continue straight until you reach Santa Barbara's East Beach area, where you'll see the zoo entrance at 500 Ninos Dr. The total distance is approximately 3 miles, which should take around 1 hour to walk.
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Public Bus
From Montecito, you can take the MTD (Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District) bus service for a convenient ride to Santa Barbara Zoo. Head to the nearest bus stop on Coast Village Road and catch either the Line 20 or Line 21 towards Santa Barbara. After about 20 minutes, get off at the stop at East Beach. The zoo is a short walk from the bus stop. Follow the path towards Ninos Drive, and you'll find the entrance to the zoo at 500 Ninos Dr. The bus fare is around $1.75, and you can purchase a ticket on board.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, biking is a great way to get to Santa Barbara Zoo from Montecito. Rent a bike from a local shop in Montecito and head south on San Ysidro Road. When you reach East Valley Road, turn left and continue to Coast Village Road. After turning onto Coast Village Road, follow it until it leads you to Olive Mill Road, which will take you towards East Beach. The bike ride is approximately 3 miles and should take about 15-20 minutes, depending on your pace. Be sure to lock your bike at the designated bike racks near the zoo entrance.
Attractions Nearby to Santa Barbara Zoo
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Santa Barbara Chromatic Gate
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Chase Palm Park
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Shipwreck Playground
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Visit Santa Barbara
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Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center
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Funk Zone Art Mural
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Eat This Shoot That!
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Stearns Wharf
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Lil' Toot Santa Barbara
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Pier Santa Barbara
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The Funk Zone
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MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
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Vera Cruz - House with murals
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Ambassador Park
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Moreton Bay Fig Tree
Landmarks nearby to Santa Barbara Zoo
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East Beach
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Santa Barbara Trolley
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Butterfly Beach
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Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours
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Funk Zone Studios
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Fess Parker Funk Zone
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Area 5.1 Winery
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Waterfront Santa Barbara
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Veterans' Memorial Building
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Santa Barbara Historic Lndmrk
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Andalucia Building
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Burton Mound State Historical Landmark
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Faith Mission
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Rafael González House
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Casa Covarrubias