Picnic appeal
Making summer plans? Looking to entertain out-of-towners? No need to ride very far to get away from it all, try this urban getaway on the Mesa.
Start here
This route starts at the Santa Barbara AMTRAK Station; from there head south to the beach and the Dolphin Fountain. Turn right and follow the beachfront multi-use path to the Marina. The route winds through beach parking lots then heads up to Shoreline Park via a protected bike lane.
Great infrastructure
From Shoreline Park cross the street and continue on your way to La Mesa Park via a buffered bike lane. Need picnic supplies? Head into Lazy Acres for your food and beverage needs.
La Mesa Park
Shoreline Drive turns into Meigs Road exactly opposite La Mesa Park. Pay close attention as you make this left turn as sightlines are short. Once in the park, use this restroom as there are none ahead. Follow the path to the narrow, rickety, bumpy bridge – yield to pedestrians as you cross.
Douglas Family Preserve
Wander through a quiet neighborhood on your approach to the park. Inside Douglas Family Preserve dog walkers abound on their morning rituals, so proceed slowly as dogs can romp off leash. The route map shows a single loop trail, but the park sign features the many ways you can explore the preserve. Be advised that 3 sides of the park are quite steep, especially along the oceanfront. There are many downed trees that can serve as short-term seating – plan to linger as you explore this in-town jewel.
After the ride
In Santa Barbara you're surrounded by world-class amenities, but sometimes you just want a burger; locate Mesa Burger just above La Mesa Park – order it to-go and return to the park to extend your outdoor adventure. As you return the way you came, enjoy panoramic coastal views from Shoreline Park. Back at Leadbetter Beach check out the Shoreline Beach Cafe.
