Explore Santa Barbara
Inspiration Point
Type: Active, Family Friendly, Free Attractions, Great Views, Public Spaces, Romantic, Sightseeing, Uniquely Here
10Best Says
Work up a sweat and see the best view in town for free! One of the most popular hiking destinations in the Santa Barbara area, Inspiration Point offers a scenic panorama of Santa Barbara, the Pacific... Read More
Work up a sweat and see the best view in town for free! One of the most popular hiking destinations in the Santa Barbara area, Inspiration Point offers a scenic panorama of Santa Barbara, the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands beyond. Although there are several places to pick up the trail, the most common route is to start on Tunnel Road just past the Santa Barbara Mission. From there, it's about a three-and-a-half mile hike that will take an hour or two, depending on your pace. The trail is dog friendly, but you should bring a leash. We also recommend packing some water and sunblock. Free parking in the surrounding neighborhoods, but it can be pretty busy on weekends.
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EXPERT TIPS BY:
Geneva Ives
Santa Barbara Local Expert
- Free Things to Do: "Don't forget your camera! You're going to want to snap at least one picture from the top of this scenic trail."
- Sightseeing, Outdoor Activities: "Don't forget your camera! You're going to want to snap a picture (or a dozen) along this scenic trail."
- Best for Free Things to Do Because: Inspiration Point is one of the best (and most photographed) hikes in Santa Barbara.
- Best for Sightseeing Because: This is one of the best hikes in Santa Barbara. It's a moderate trek on an easy-to-navigate trail.
- Best for Outdoor Activities Because: For one of the best views in Santa Barbara, lace up your shoes and hit this hiking trail.