Butterfly Beach

Location Details

City: Montecito

County: Santa Barbara

State: Ca

Zip Code: 93108

Address: 1260 Channel Drive

Latitude: 34.416813621863085, Longitude: -119.64349555796487

Parking Fee: $0.00

Parking Notes: Street Parking, does get busy early

Restrooms: No

Entry Points: <p>Best Entry Points at Butterfly Beach</p>
<p><strong>1. Butterfly Lane Steps</strong> (Channel Drive &amp; Butterfly Lane) Overview: This is a very common and easy entry &mdash; just walk down the beach to the steps near Butterfly Lane. Dive Features: Gentle sloping sandy bottom, shallow depths (10&ndash;30 ft). A good entry for training and straightforward dives.</p>
<p><strong>2. Four Seasons Biltmore Steps</strong> Overview: Dive in right in front of the opulent Four Seasons Resort. Access via the steps leads you directly into the ocean. Dive Features: Similar floor profile &mdash; sloping sand with patches of rock and kelp, making for a comfortable and visually appealing dive.</p>
<p><strong>Additional Dive Option</strong> (More Advanced / Unique Features) &bull; Parking Pipe Dive Location: Slightly west of Butterfly Lane &mdash; you&rsquo;ll see a pipe surfacing underwater at depths around 20&ndash;30 ft. Features: This dive spot follows a pipe laid on the seafloor. It supports kelp and marine life, adding habitat interest. You can follow the pipe outbound or inbound for varying scenery.</p>

Other Notes: Butterfly Beach in Montecito, California is a serene and scenic coastal gem beloved by both locals and visitors. Located along Channel Drive, just south of Santa Barbara, this beach offers a uniquely elegant yet laid-back atmosphere. Its rare east–west orientation provides stunning views of both sunrise and sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Popular for sunbathing, walking, biking, paddleboarding, kayaking, and occasional surfing, Butterfly Beach is a go-to spot for casual recreation. The calm surf makes it family-friendly and ideal for light water activities. Wildlife is often visible offshore—keep an eye out for dolphins and migrating whales.

Set across from the luxurious Four Seasons Biltmore and surrounded by upscale homes, the beach maintains a quiet exclusivity without feeling off-limits. It’s a favorite among locals, dog walkers, and beachgoers looking to relax away from the crowds. You may even spot a celebrity or two, as Montecito is home to many.

Access is easy via Channel Drive, with on-street parking available nearby. Two main stairways lead to the beach—one near Butterfly Lane and the other adjacent to the Biltmore. While there are no public restrooms or official facilities, the beauty and tranquility of the setting more than make up for the simplicity.

At low tide, extended walks are possible in both directions: west toward East Beach in Santa Barbara or east toward Hammonds Beach. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a picturesque spot to enjoy the California coast, Butterfly Beach offers an unforgettable experience.