About This Beach
Butterfly Beach sits in front of the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore in upscale Montecito, offering a quiet alternative to Santa Barbara’s main beaches. Unlike most California beaches that face west, Butterfly Beach has a south-facing orientation that provides spectacular views of the Channel Islands and exceptional sunset vistas. The narrow sandy beach is backed by a stone seawall along Channel Drive, offering a convenient place to sit and enjoy the scenery. The beach lacks facilities such as restrooms or showers, contributing to its less crowded atmosphere despite the prime location. Popular with local residents, including celebrities who maintain homes in Montecito, Butterfly Beach allows dogs off-leash during certain hours and is known for dolphin sightings close to shore.