Located on 30 acres near the ocean in Santa Barbara, California, the Santa Barbara Zoo offers a wonderful coastal escape packed with incredible wildlife. First opened in August 1963 on the former site of the Child Estate, this charming destination is home to more than 500 animals across a variety of immersive exhibits. As you explore, you will discover the Australian Walkabout, where you can experience Aboriginal culture alongside western grey kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and colorful birds. Head over to Cats of Africa on the hillside to spot fennec foxes and admire African lions from an elevated viewing platform.
Wildlife enthusiasts can wander through California Trails to view majestic bald eagles and California condors, or visit The Forest's Edge to see two male Western lowland gorillas from a replica ranger station. Do not miss the African Plains to see meerkats, Sulcata tortoises, and genetically valuable Masai giraffes. You can also drop by the Crawford Family Penguin House for underwater viewing of Humboldt penguins. Beyond animal exhibits, you can ride the 2-foot narrow gauge Zoo Train featuring C.
P. Huntington locomotives. Whether viewing capybaras or learning about famous past residents, you will love visiting this seaside paradise.
What to see at Santa Barbara Zoo
- See two male Western lowland gorillas from a replica ranger station at The Forest's Edge.
- Experience Australian Aboriginal culture, kangaroos, and wallabies in the Australian Walkabout.
- Watch Humboldt penguins swim via underwater glass viewing at the Crawford Family Penguin House.
- Take a ride around the grounds on the 2-foot narrow gauge Zoo Train.
- Observe African lions from an elevated platform along the hillside at Cats of Africa.
Visiting tips
Walk along the lower elevated path in California Trails past the bald eagles to view the condor aviary from two sides on your way toward The Forest's Edge.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Santa Barbara Zoo is easy to reach on Santa Barbara’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Arlington Theatre and Lobero Theatre. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Santa Barbara travel guide.
See the full Santa Barbara travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.