Leadbetter Beach offers visitors a spacious city beach combining white sandy shores with grassy picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy public showers, restrooms, lifeguard protection, and designated barbecue grills, all set against the scenic backdrop of Santa Barbara's waterfront.
What to Expect:
🏖️ Soft white sand and grassy picnic lawns
🍖 Barbecue grills and picnic tables available
🚿 Public showers and restrooms
🛟 Lifeguard on duty for safety
Important Information:
– Hours: Daily 8 AM to 10 PM
– Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🍖 Bring Your Grill Supplies: The beach provides barbecue grills—packing your own food is a great way to enjoy a meal with ocean views.
🚴 Easy Access via Bike Path: A bike trail nearby offers a scenic route connecting to the city center and waterfront.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Spots: Dogs are allowed, making it a great choice for visitors with pets to enjoy the beach together.
🛟 Swim Safely: Lifeguards monitor the swimming area, and marked swim buoys help visitors stay safe amid mild currents.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Leadbetter Beach is widely appreciated for its clean, well-maintained sandy shore, picnic spots, and accessibility. Guests frequently praise the ample facilities like restrooms, showers, and grilling areas. Some note seaweed buildup during certain seasons, but the overall calm and scenic environment is consistently celebrated.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
