Pet-friendly Santa Barbara: Restaurants, beaches & hikes

Updated April 8, 2026

Planning a trip to pet-friendly Santa Barbara, or a local sniffing out the best spots for your furry pal? From sunny beaches to dog-friendly restaurants, Santa Barbara has plenty to keep you and your four-legged friend busy. Plus, discover how to try house sitting in Santa Barbara, or find the perfect Santa Barbara pet sitter while you’re off on your adventures.

Dog-friendly restaurants, Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara’s got sunshine, sea, and seriously good eats – and your furry friend can come along for the ride! Many restaurants have dog-friendly patios (and some even serve water bowls and treats!), but it’s best to check before you go to avoid any surprises.

Finney's Crafthouse

Santa Barbara is a city loved for its brewery scene, so why not combine American classics like burgers and loaded sandwiches with a craft beer? Head to Finney’s Crafthouse to try this match made in heaven, and bring your pup along too.

Location: 35 State St a, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

The Lark

Located in the heart of The Funk Zone (a well-known art district in Santa Barbara), The Lark serves dinner and brunch dishes (weekends only) made from locally sourced ingredients. Furry friends are welcome in the dog-friendly outdoor area.

Location: 131 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

On The Alley

For a fuss-free meal that pleases all the family where dogs are welcome, check out On the Alley that’s located on Harbor Way. From all-day breakfast to classics from the griddle, there’s something for everyone.

Location: 117 Harbor Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, United States

The Cruisery 

Here, four-pawed pals are treated like royalty both inside and out. While you peruse the menu of pub classics, craft beers, and cocktails, furry customers can help themselves to the ‘dog bar’ at the front – a row of water bowls.

Location: 501 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Reunion Kitchen + Drink

Head to the outdoor patio of Reunion Kitchen with your furry friend to enjoy all-American modern comfort food, including burgers, sandwiches and fresh salad bowls.

Location: 1118 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, United States

Brophy Bros.

Seafood with a view? Yes, please! This popular spot has a patio overlooking Santa Barbara Harbor, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood while your pup soaks up the salty air. Be aware it can get busy here, so be sure your dog is comfortable in crowded spaces.

Location: 119 Harbor Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, United States

Lucky Penny

Famous for its eye-catching penny-covered exterior, Lucky Penny serves up wood-fired pizzas and other tasty treats. Their outdoor patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for a casual meal.

Location: 127 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Santa Barbara Public Market

This bustling marketplace has a variety of food vendors with outdoor seating areas where pups are welcome. It's a great option for those who want to sample a bit of everything.

Location: 38 W Victoria St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Santo Mezcal

If you're in the mood for Mexican cuisine, Santo Mezcal has a delicious seafood-centric menu and a dog-friendly patio. Expect delicious tacos, margaritas, and good vibes.

Location: 119 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Tre Lune

Popular Italian restaurant Tre Lune welcomes four-legged friends on its outdoor patio. Customers rave about the food and service, and it’s the ideal place to take your dog for a cozy date

Location: 1151 Coast Village Rd, Montecito, CA 93108, United States

Loquita

Loquita brings a taste of Spain to Santa Barbara – think tapas, paella, and churros for dessert (of course).

Location: 202 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Dog-friendly beaches, Santa Barbara

A day at the beach is always better with your furry friend, so here are some of the best dog-friendly beaches in Santa Barbara.

Arroyo Burro Beach County Park

Keep your pup on a leash and enjoy the popular sites of Arroyo Burro Beach County Park. Parking is available nearby, and you can clean Fido at the dog-washing station at the end of a fun-filled day.

Location: 2981 Cliff Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, United States

Butterfly Beach

Looking for a peaceful sunset spot? Leashed pups are welcome to join you for a stroll on the sand as you watch the sun dip below the horizon, or any time of day, in fact!

Location: Montecito, CA 93108, United States 

Summerland Beach

Summerland’s got calm waves, a dog-washing station, and a conveniently placed parking lot nearby, making it a great spot for a beach day with your leashed pal.

Location: Beach Access, Summerland, CA 93067, United States

Dog-friendly cafes, Santa Barbara

From artisanal pastries to people-watching, Santa Barbara’s dog-friendly cafes have it all. 

Helena Avenue Bakery 

This is a firm favorite among locals, known for freshly baked sourdough, perfect pastries, and farm-to-table plates. Its dog-friendly patio might be small, but this is still the kind of place you could spend a whole morning.

Location: 131 Anacapa St c, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States 

Goat Tree

Located in the Hotel Californian, Goat Tree serves ridiculously good pastries and brunch dishes on its sun-drenched patio, where your furry friend is welcome to join you.

Location: 36 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Scarlett Begonia 

Known for its cinnamon rolls but also offering delicious dishes of shrimp and grits, French toast, and lemon ricotta pancakes, this dog-friendly patio is the place to be for brunch.

Location: 21 W Victoria St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Daily Grind

Get away from the daily grind with your furry friend to enjoy breakfast burritos, baked goods, and great espresso on the dog-friendly patio. 
Location: 2001 De La Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States

Dog-friendly hikes, Santa Barbara

Are you and your pup ready for an adventure in the great outdoors? Lace up those boots and grab a leash!

Douglas Family Preserve

Located right next to the best dog-friendly beach in Santa Barbara is 70 acres of space to explore. Furry friends are allowed off-leash, and humans can enjoy coastal views and maybe even spot some dolphins!

Location: Santa Barbara, CA 93109, United States

San Antonio Creek Trailhead

If you’d rather be inland, take a stroll from Tucker’s Grove Dog Park to San Antonio Canyon. The trail is mostly covered and takes around an hour there and back, but you could cross over into San Marcos Foothills Preserve if you want a longer walk.

Location: San Antonio Creek Trail, Santa Barbara, CA 93111, United States

Inspiration Point Trailhead

This four-mile trail takes you to Inspiration Point for a great view of the city and the surrounding area. Be prepared to walk uphill for the first half of the hike, then retrace your steps back down.

Location: Spyglass Ridge Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States 

Shoreline Park

This park stretches around 1.5 miles along the Santa Barbara coastline. There are plenty of places to stop and take in the view, plus a nearby parking lot and clean restrooms.

Location: Shoreline Dr & Santa Rosa Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, United States

Rattlesnake Canyon Trailhead

It’s easy to get to this riverside trail from downtown Santa Barbara. Be ready for a short but steep climb – you and Fido can reward yourselves with a wash in the creek afterward!

Location: 1899, 1783 Las Canoas Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States

Dog-friendly places in Santa Barbara

Want to truly get to know Santa Barbara with your pup? Here are some of the most dog-friendly places the city has to offer — be sure to get informed about local leash rules to make sure you’re keep your pup and others safe.

Santa Barbara Harbor

A stroll around the harbor is a classic Santa Barbara experience. Leashed dogs are welcome, and you can enjoy watching the boats, seals, and pelicans. Some of the harbor-side restaurants also have dog-friendly patios.

Location: Point Castillo, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, United States 

Elings Park

There’s plenty of space for off-leash adventures at Elings Park. At the top, you can enjoy 180-degree views stretching all the way from the mountains behind the city to the islands out to sea.

Location: 1298 Las Positas Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Furry friends are allowed on the leash at this 78-acre garden, where 5.5 miles of paths weave through an authentic Japanese tea garden, a redwood grove, and a desert garden.

Cost: $20 for adults, $12 for youth.

Date & time: Daily 10 am – 5 pm.

Location: 1212 Mission Canyon Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States

Chase Palm Park

Walk with Fido on the leash along the sandy beach, or take the trails inside the park. Events are often hosted at this beachside park.

Location: 323 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

State Street

Santa Barbara’s main thoroughfare, State Street, is a pedestrian-friendly zone with many shops and outdoor cafes. Leashed furries are welcome to join you as you explore the boutiques and art galleries.

Location: California, USA

Mission Rose Garden

This beautiful garden, located near the Old Mission Santa Barbara, is a lovely place to walk a leashed pup.

Location: 420 Plaza Rubio, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, United States 

Dog-friendly wineries in Santa Barbara

What’s a day in the “American Riviera” without a trip to your nearby, dog-friendly winery? Below, find a few of Santa Barbara’s wineries where your pup is welcome to join you, and remember to book ahead to make sure dogs are still allowed.

Frequency Wine Company

Book a table at Frequency Wine Company’s sunny patio or reserve a tasting experience to try this spot’s specially selected wines, with your pup by your side.

Location: 804 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Deep Sea Tasting Room

If panoramic ocean views, locally-selected wines and dog-friendly seating get your attention, book a table at Deep Sea Tasting Room — a favorite amongst both locals and visitors.

Location: 217 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Kunin Wines

Kunin Wines - located on Santa Barbara Street - welcomes pet parents and their pups to the outdoor tables. So, why not stop by on a sunny afternoon for a tasting?

Location: 831 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Longoria On State

It might be clear by now that locals are spoilt for choice when it comes to dog-friendly wineries! Head to State Street to try out this stylish winery where well-behaved dogs are allowed.

Location: 732 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Grassini Family Vineyards

Go straight to the source at Grassini Family Vineyards in Downtown Santa Barbara, book a tasting and choose from cheese or charcuterie to complement the wine.

Location: 24 El Paseo, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Jamie Slone Wines

Book a table and walk to the Presidio Neighborhood for a taste of historic Santa Barbara, and the delicious wines associated with it.

Location: 23 E De La Guerra St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Dog-friendly activities, Santa Barbara

Looking for more than the usual dog-friendly things to do in Santa Barbara? These activities will keep you both busy.

Go sailing

Test your furry friend’s sea legs aboard this beautiful sailing yacht, and spot dolphins, sea lions, and maybe even whales (if you’re lucky!).

Cost: $65 for adults, $30 for children. No charge for dogs. 

Date & time: Check website for bookings. 

Location: 125 Harbor Way #13, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, United States

Go wine tasting

There are plenty of dog-friendly bars and wineries to choose from in Santa Barbara, and many welcome dogs outdoors! Explore them in more detail by scrolling below.

Take in the sights

Visit places like Old Mission Santa Barbara to see the impressive facade from the outside or go to Stearns Wharf for views of the water and shopping. There’s plenty to see just by strolling around Santa Barbara, CA. 

Dog-friendly breweries in Santa Barbara

More of a craft beer person, or looking for somewhere laidback to connect with locals, with your pup by your side? Find your local brewery or taproom in Santa Barbara where dogs are welcome. Make a start with our list below, and remember to always check with a staff member before finding a seat with your pup.

Topa Topa Brewing Co.

Located just a few blocks from Stearns Wharf, Topa Topa Brewing Co. welcomes pet parents and their pups. So, why not stop by for west coast IPA, white ale, and other house-brewed favorites?

Location: 120 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Third Window Brewing Co.

Not far from Hollister Avenue, you’ll find Third Window Brewing Co. — a dog-friendly brewery that’s almost as passionate about their smashburgers and relaxed atmosphere as they are the beer.

Location: 406 E Haley St #3, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company

Head to the outdoor patio to sample house-brewed tropical IPA, locally-loved non-alcoholic blonde beer, Mexican lager and more.

Location: 137 Anacapa St F, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Validation Ale

Try a local draft beer or two and soak up the Santa Barbara sun in the dog-friendly outdoor seating area at Validation Ale.

Location: 102 E Yanonali St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Lama Dog Tap Room & Bottle

Head to Lama Dog Tap Room & Bottle’s Uptown location where you’ll find a dog-friendly patio, 30 taps and a modern menu of sharer plates inspired by cuisines from around the world.

Location: 3435 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States

Night Lizard Brewing Company

For a local brewery with an environmental initiative, check out Night Lizard Brewing Company on State Street. Dogs are welcome at the outdoor tables, where you can choose from lovingly made brews, each named after an endangered species from the Central Coast of California.

Location: 607 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Brass Bear 

In the famous Funk Zone just one block from the ocean, Brass Bear is a brewery and restaurant loved by both locals and visitors alike. If you prefer mountain views, head to their Uptown location that’s recently opened.

Funk Zone location: 28 Anacapa St unit e, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Uptown location: 3302 McCaw Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States

M Special Brewing Company 

Looking for a brewery that’s all about the beer? Head to Downtown Santa Barbara and find M Special Brewing Company to try house-made IPAs, lagers, and blondes.

Location: 634 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Top tip for finding a dog-friendly brewery in Santa Barbara

Many of Santa Barbara’s breweries are in The Funk Zone — if you’re a local, you might have already heard of it! It’s a vibrant, 13-block arts district that was once a booming industrial area. Now, the area is home to art galleries, restaurants, murals, and of course, breweries popular with locals. So, if you’re not sure where to start looking for dog-friendly breweries (or just a cool place to explore) start in The Funk Zone!

Tips for pet parents: Important things to know about Santa Barbara

• Beware of tar on beaches. While Santa Barbara’s dog-friendly beaches might be a paradise for pups, be aware of potential hazards like tar on the sand, especially after storms.
• Bring home comforts. If you’re planning to stay in one of the many pet-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara, your furry friend will appreciate a little slice of home! Packing their bed, a beloved toy, and even their food bowl can make all the difference to their stay. 
• Even better… find an in-home pet sitter. Your idea of the perfect vacation probably isn’t the same as your dog's – vets agree they’re much happier at home! Our loving sitters exchange pet care for a place to stay on their travels, so you’re free to enjoy your trip away knowing your furry family members are in the best of hands.

Tips for pet sitters

• Beat the midday heat. Santa Barbara sunshine can be intense, so schedule walks for cooler mornings or evenings, and always pack plenty of water.
• Watch out for big cats. Keep an eye out for big cats if you’re following one of the dog-friendly walking trails outside the city, especially if you’ve got a smaller pup.
• Avoid busy areas. Funk Zone and State Street can get crowded, especially on weekends. Keep furry friends on a short leash, be mindful of other pedestrians, and find somewhere quieter if it seems a bit much for your pooch pal.
• Try house sitting. Want to experience Santa Barbara like a true local, while exchanging loving pet care for a place to stay on your travels? Find out more about how house and pet sitting works below.

More dog-friendly travel guides near Santa Barbara

Thinking about house sitting in Santa Barbara, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.

• Dog-friendly San Diego: Things to do in San Diego with a dog
• Dog-friendly Oakland: things to do in Oakland with a dog
• Dog-friendly guide to Sacramento: Things to do in Sacramento with a dog
• Dog-friendly Santa Rosa, CA: Things to do in Santa Rosa with a dog
• Pet-friendly Santa Monica: restaurants, beaches & dog parks
• Pet-friendly Newport Beach: restaurants, dog parks & walks
• Pet-friendly Palm Springs CA: Restaurants, hikes & dog parks
• Pet-Friendly San Luis Obispo: Restaurants, hikes, & beaches