Sandee logo Blue
  • Countries
  • Blogs
  • Map
  • Nude Beaches
  • Sharks
  • Beach News
Sandee logo Blue
Home
Countries
Blog
Map
Nude Beaches
Sharks
Beach News

Sandee logo Blue
instagramfacebooktwitteryoutube
Choose Your Beach! TM
  • Explore

  • Countries

  • Nude Beaches

  • Best Beaches

  • Sitemap

  • Company

  • About

  • Press

  • Mr. Beach

  • License Our Data

  • Legal

  • Privacy Policy

  • Cookie Policy

  • Terms and Conditions

  • Community

  • Beach News

  • Contact Us

  • Save Our Oceans

Explore
Company
Legal
Community

© 2025 by Sandee, LLC.   All rights reserved.

Home >  United States  >  California  >  Montecito  >  

Butterfly Beach

Butterfly Beach

United States, California, Montecito 

Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee

Butterfly Beach

United States, California, Montecito 

Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee Butterfly Beach

58.815

°F

|

°C

Icon

Clear

10 Km82%0.56 m/s

11:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

58.8 °F15 °C

2:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

58.4 °F15 °C

5:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

56.1 °F13 °C

8:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

62.5 °F17 °C

11:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

69.6 °F21 °C

2:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

70.0 °F21 °C

5:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

65.3 °F18 °C

8:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

64.8 °F18 °C

11:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

61.3 °F16 °C

2:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

60.5 °F16 °C

5:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

60.5 °F16 °C

8:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

67.4 °F20 °C

11:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

74.6 °F24 °C

2:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

76.3 °F24 °C

5:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

75.7 °F24 °C

8:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

69.9 °F21 °C

11:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

67.2 °F19 °C

2:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

67.4 °F20 °C

5:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

67.4 °F19 °C

8:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

77.3 °F25 °C

11:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

80.2 °F27 °C

2:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

83.1 °F28 °C

5:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

82.8 °F28 °C

8:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

76.1 °F24 °C

11:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

71.6 °F22 °C

2:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

68.8 °F20 °C

5:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

71.5 °F22 °C

8:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

74.5 °F23 °C

11:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

76.6 °F25 °C

2:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

78.6 °F26 °C

5:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

79.8 °F26 °C

8:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

78.2 °F26 °C

11:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

74.8 °F24 °C

2:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

65.7 °F19 °C

5:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

61.3 °F16 °C

8:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

68.0 °F20 °C

11:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

69.5 °F21 °C

2:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

70.8 °F21 °C

5:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

67.2 °F19 °C

8:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

60.2 °F16 °C

Nestled in Santa Barbara, Southern California, Butterfly Beach is a hidden gem with stunning ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors are drawn here to enjoy the quiet and beauty away from crowded spots.

When you’re ready for a bite, an 8-minute walk from Butterfly Beach takes you to Bella Vista, known for its Italian-inspired California cuisine and ocean views. Within a 15-minute walk, you’ll find popular spots like Bree’osh Bakery Cafe Montecito, famous for its fresh brioche bread and French pastries. Health-conscious visitors may want to check out Oliver’s of Montecito for a creative, plant-based menu.

For accommodations, options near Butterfly Beach include The Biltmore Santa Barbara, a luxurious Spanish Colonial-style hotel with ocean views, and the Rosewood Miramar Beach, an elegant estate-style resort. The historic Montecito Inn, built in 1928 by Charlie Chaplin, offers boutique charm and comfort.

This beach doesn’t have basic amenities like restrooms, showers, and lifeguards, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.

With calm waters and pristine sands stretching along the shore, Butterfly Beach is ideal for swimming, wading, and even boogie-boarding. The beach is set in a quiet residential area, so rental options for gear aren’t available nearby.

Visitors enjoy beach walks, building sandcastles, or playing with leashed dogs. During low tide, you can walk west to East Beach. If you want a little exercise, head to Santa Barbara Bikes to Go and rent a beach cruiser for $10 per hour and enjoy the Cabrillo Boulevard Bike Path. This 4.5-mile path is one of the most popular trails in Santa Barbara and takes you as far as the Santa Barbara Pier. Butterfly Beach is famous for its dolphin sightings, so be sure to keep an eye out for the local marine life.

Accessing Butterfly Beach is straightforward via Channel Drive, where you’ll find street parking and a staircase leading directly to the beach. Its unique east-west orientation provides one of the rare opportunities to watch the sun set over the ocean in California. Although parking can sometimes be limited, nearby residential areas often have extra spots.

Basic Details

INBeige

IN1233 Channel Dr, Montecito, CA 93108, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Restrooms

  • Shops

  • Showers

  • WiFi

  • Picnic Table

  • Activities

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesSurfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesCar Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesDisabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Parking - Free

  • Parking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesStairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Butterfly Beach - Beach Map

    Loading Beaches...

    Explore Top Destinations

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Butterfly Beach have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    No, this Beach does not have dedicated parking but has street parking near the entrance.

    Does Butterfly Beach have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Butterfly Beach a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Butterfly Beach good for swimming?

    Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.

    Does Butterfly Beach have restrooms?

    No, this Beach does not have restrooms on or near the beach.

    Is Butterfly Beach a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Butterfly Beach?

    Yes, this Beach has multiple restaurant options near or on the beach.

    What are the activities at Butterfly Beach?

    Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Bike Paths, Fishing, Surfing.

    Does Butterfly Beach have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    Yes, this Beach offers accommodations for people with disabilities, allowing everyone to relish the coastal experience.

    Is Butterfly Beach a dog-friendly beach?

    Yes, bring your dog with you to this Beach!

    Is Butterfly Beach good for surfing?

    Yes, surfing is an activity that is frequently enjoyed at this Beach.

    Beaches Near Butterfly Beach

    Sandee Hammonds Beach

    Hammonds Beach

    Hammonds Beach
    Montecito, USA(0.48 Miles)
    Sandee Stairway To Beach

    Stairway To Beach

    Stairway To Beach
    Montecito, USA(0.83 Miles)
    Sandee Miramar Beach

    Miramar Beach

    Miramar Beach
    Montecito, USA(0.92 Miles)
    Sandee East Beach

    East Beach

    East Beach
    Santa Barbara, USA(1.43 Miles)
    Sandee Chase Palm Park

    Chase Palm Park

    Chase Palm Park
    Santa Barbara, USA(2.12 Miles)
    Sandee West Beach

    West Beach

    West Beach
    Santa Barbara, USA(2.25 Miles)
    Sandee West Beach, Stearns Wharf

    West Beach, Stearns Wharf

    West Beach, Stearns Wharf
    Santa Barbara, USA(2.49 Miles)
    Sandee Summerland Beach

    Summerland Beach

    Summerland Beach
    Summerland, USA(2.53 Miles)
    Sandee Lookout County Park

    Lookout County Park

    Lookout County Park
    Summerland, USA(2.53 Miles)
    Sandee Santa Barbara Harbor

    Santa Barbara Harbor

    Santa Barbara Harbor
    Santa Barbara, USA(2.87 Miles)

    Best Beaches in California

    Sandee Santa Monica Beach

    Santa Monica Beach

    Santa Monica Beach
    Santa Monica , USA
    Sandee Baker Beach

    Baker Beach

    Baker Beach
    San Francisco , USA
    Sandee Carmel City Beach

    Carmel City Beach

    Carmel City Beach
    Carmel By The Sea , USA
    Sandee Bodega Bay Harbor

    Bodega Bay Harbor

    Bodega Bay Harbor
    Bodega Bay , USA
    Sandee Stinson Beach

    Stinson Beach

    Stinson Beach
    Stinson Beach , USA
    Sandee Centerville Beach

    Centerville Beach

    Centerville Beach
    Ferndale , USA
    Sandee Monterey Beach

    Monterey Beach

    Monterey Beach
    Monterey , USA
    Sandee Santa Cruz Beach

    Santa Cruz Beach

    Santa Cruz Beach
    Santa Cruz , USA
    Sandee Santa Monica Beach

    Santa Monica Beach

    Santa Monica Beach
    Santa Monica , USA
    Sandee Baker Beach

    Baker Beach

    Baker Beach
    San Francisco , USA
    Sandee Carmel City Beach

    Carmel City Beach

    Carmel City Beach
    Carmel By The Sea , USA
    Sandee Bodega Bay Harbor

    Bodega Bay Harbor

    Bodega Bay Harbor
    Bodega Bay , USA
    Sandee Stinson Beach

    Stinson Beach

    Stinson Beach
    Stinson Beach , USA
    Sandee Centerville Beach

    Centerville Beach

    Centerville Beach
    Ferndale , USA
    Sandee Monterey Beach

    Monterey Beach

    Monterey Beach
    Monterey , USA
    Sandee Santa Cruz Beach

    Santa Cruz Beach

    Santa Cruz Beach
    Santa Cruz , USA
    View All

    EXPERT ADVICE AND TIPS

    Beach Blogs

    Read All Blogs
    Sandee - Blog / Live Hurricane Milton Updates

    Oct 09, 2024 SANDEE

    Live Hurricane Milton Updates

    Live Hurricane Milton Updates

    Discover how hurricanes, like the powerful Hurricane Milton, are classified into categories and the damage each category can cause. Learn how Florida and other regions prepare for such storms.

    Sandee - Blog / Discover the Mysterious Velella Washing Ashore on California Beaches

    Oct 02, 2024 SANDEE

    Discover the Mysterious Velella Washing Ashore on California Beaches

    Discover the Mysterious Velella Washing Ashore on California Beaches

    If you're visiting California's iconic beaches this season, you might encounter some unusual, vibrant blue creatures washed ashore. These tiny marine organisms, known as Velella Velella, are captivating tourists and locals alike. Often referred to as "by-the-wind sailors," these creatures have recently been appearing in large numbers along the West Coast, including popular beaches in Santa Cruz, Malibu, and Santa Barbara. This phenomenon adds a touch of intrigue to California’s already scenic shores, making your beach visit even more unforgettable.

    Sandee - Blog / Trapped and Swallowed by Quicksand

    Aug 20, 2024 SANDEE

    Trapped and Swallowed by Quicksand

    Trapped and Swallowed by Quicksand

    Quick! That’s how fast it happened—one moment, Jamie Acord was enjoying a peaceful stroll along the beach with her husband, and the next, she was waist-deep in quicksand.

    Sandee - Blog / Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California

    May 28, 2024 SANDEE

    Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California

    Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California

    Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California

    Sandee - Blog / Pet-Friendly Beaches - Top 3 Destinations to Vacation with Your Dog or Cat in USA

    Feb 07, 2024 SANDEE

    Pet-Friendly Beaches - Top 3 Destinations to Vacation with Your Dog or Cat in USA

    Pet-Friendly Beaches - Top 3 Destinations to Vacation with Your Dog or Cat in USA

    For pet owners, leaving Fido or Fluffy behind while the family hits the beach just won't do. Luckily, many coastal destinations now cater to vacationing animal lovers by allowing dogs, cats, and other pets to enjoy the seaside fun too. From wide open spaces to play, pet perks, and accommodations, here are the top pet-friendly beaches to visit for a pawsome vacation with your furry best friend.

    Sandee - Blog / Family Beach Day Essentials: Packing for Fun in the Sun

    Feb 07, 2024 SANDEE

    Family Beach Day Essentials: Packing for Fun in the Sun

    Family Beach Day Essentials: Packing for Fun in the Sun

    A successful beach trip requires thoughtful preparation and packing. You don't want to forget essential items and have to cut your day short or run out constantly for supplies.

    Sandee - Blog / 8 Things That RUIN A Beach Day

    Feb 07, 2024 SANDEE

    8 Things That RUIN A Beach Day

    8 Things That RUIN A Beach Day

    You've dreamt of this beach vacay for months. The sunscreen is packed, cute swimsuit donned, and you made your playlist filled with sunny tunes. You head out ready for a blissful, relaxing day soaking up the summer sun, waves, and vistas. Then...something happens that puts a damper on the day. Beach trips don't always go as envisioned. From weather mishaps to forgetting necessities, here are 8 common things that can sabotage and ruin an otherwise glorious beach day.

    Sandee - Blog / 13 Best Beach Cities in California

    Feb 01, 2024 SANDEE

    13 Best Beach Cities in California

    13 Best Beach Cities in California

    With over 800 miles of coastline, California is synonymous with beach culture. Up and down the Golden State, you’ll find lively seaside towns and cities where you can wake up to ocean views, spend the day tanning on the sand, and enjoy fresh coastal cuisine.

    Sandee - Blog / Nudism Laws in United States Virgin Islands: A Comprehensive Overview

    Feb 01, 2024 SANDEE

    Nudism Laws in United States Virgin Islands: A Comprehensive Overview

    Nudism Laws in United States Virgin Islands: A Comprehensive Overview

    The United States Virgin Islands offer a beautiful tropical escape for travelers looking to experience the stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. For those who are interested in naturism or nudism, it's important to be aware of the laws and cultural attitudes towards nudity in this region.

    Sandee - Blog / Nudism Laws in United States: A Comprehensive Overview

    Feb 01, 2024 SANDEE

    Nudism Laws in United States: A Comprehensive Overview

    Nudism Laws in United States: A Comprehensive Overview

    Nudism, also known as naturism, is a lifestyle that promotes the freedom and comfort of being nude in a non-sexual context. In the United States, there are laws and regulations that dictate where and when nudism is permissible. As a travel blogger and enthusiast of naturist activities, I have explored the various laws and cultural attitudes towards nudism in the US.

    Read All Blogs