Santa Barbara Beaches

We get asked by our clients often about which beaches in Santa Barbara we enjoy photographing at the most. While there are so many amazing options, we’ve accumulated a list of picks here - along with pros and cons!

Let’s dive in.

Below, you’ll find a list of some of Santa Barbara’s top beaches. Check out the details below each for a glimpse into what a photographic experience could be like there!

Some of the main things we keep in mind when helping our clients choose their beach location include crowds, aesthetics, parking, restrooms, walking distance, pet allowance, and accessibility.

We hope to capture you at one of these stunning locations soon!

#1. HAMMONDS BEACH

Address: Eucalyptus Ln and Edgecliff Ln Montecito, CA 93108

Restrooms: None

Pet Policy: Dogs allowed on leash.

This beach is our top favorite when it comes to photo sessions! It has residential/street parking and only requires a short walk through a beautiful trail that leads to the beach. There are photo opportunities along the scenic trail for a “dynamic” kind of beach session! The beach itself offers beautiful backdrops and is more private than most of the surrounding beaches. This hidden gem is perfect for engagements, maternity and family sessions. It sure is special!

#2. LEADBETTER BEACH

Address: 801 Shoreline Dr, Santa Barbara

Restrooms: Yes

Pet Policy: Dogs not allowed on beach.

This beach is a close second on our list. It always has parking available (meter parking $2.50/hr). It is one of Santa Barbara’s most popular spots and has a long stretch of sand extending from Shoreline Park and around to the harbor! This would also be a great option if you are planning to have a picnic set-up by a company like Santa Barbara Picnic Co.

#3. SUMMERLAND BEACH (LOON POINT)

Address: 2781 Padaro Ln, Carpinteria

Restrooms: Yes

Pet Policy: Dogs allowed on leash.

This special beach is less likely to be visited by tourists, as locals mainly know about it! There is a parking area at the west end of Padaro Ln where it meets the 101 freeway. This spot is a gem!

#4. EAST BEACH

Address: 1118 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara

Restrooms: Yes

Pet Policy: No dogs allowed.

This is a more challenging location as it is long and expansive, which can make it confusing to find at times. We have found that the easiest spot to meet is at the rainbow arch. The closer you get to the cliff/south side, the more difficult it becomes to find parking. This beach is our #5 pick because it has limited background options and tends to have many tourists around!

#5. BUTTERFLY BEACH

Address: 1260 Channel Dr, Montecito

Restrooms: None

Unfortunately, we typically do not recommend this beach for photo sessions as it is almost always very crowded with tourists, has limited background options, scarce parking, and no restrooms. It also requires quite a long walk for photography options!