Breakwater at Santa Barbara Harbor

The breakwater at the Santa Barbara harbor is a little bit fancy. It's intended to minimize the effect of wave action on pricey yachts. It's also free. The long curved walkway that juts out into the sea is perfect for strolling on sunny weather and warm nights. Incorporating stone brought over from Santa Cruz Island, the breakwater is a smooth path lined with banner-waving flagpoles and offers terrific views of the harbor, the city and the distant mountains. The occasional wave splashes over it (fun!), and there's a small beach at the very end that is never crowded - except when a flock of pelicans decides to land there. There are a variety of restaurants, shops, tour boat departure points and other attractions nearby.