Backed by the rugged peaks of the Santa Ynez Mountains, Goleta lies adjacent to Santa Barbara along California’s Pacific Coast. Its fascinating railroad history is on display at a heritage-listed depot while migratory birds flock to its lakes, wetlands and beaches.
Things to do in Goleta
Relax on the sands of Goleta Beach, which was man-made in 1945 when sand was added to an existing spit. A large portion of the beachfront is protected within Goleta Beach County Park where you’ll find picnic tables, a volleyball court and the historic More’s Landing pier. Goleta Beach provides seasonal habitat for migratory birds, including the endangered snowy plover.
Occupying an early-20th-century depot of the Southern Pacific Railroad is the South Coast Railroad Museum, which has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Highlights of the collection include a vintage caboose, antique lanterns and a railway gauge, as well as a modern train set depicting Goleta. After riding the Goleta Short Line railroad, you can stretch your legs along the trails that connect to Lake Los Carneros.
Golfers can enjoy a round on the 18-hole course of the Sandpiper Golf Club, which was founded in 1972 on the site of a former oil refinery. There are stunning views across the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains from all of the holes and an on-site store where you can pick up golfing apparel and equipment. At the end of your game, settle in for a meal at the Sandpiper Grill.
Getting around Goleta
Goleta is around 15 minutes’ drive from the centre of Santa Barbara and just five minutes from the terminal buildings of Santa Barbara Airport, which has flights to destinations across the United States. Buses are the main means of getting to and around Goleta.