Things To Do
in Isla Vista
Isla Vista is a coastal university town just west of Santa Barbara, known for its student-driven energy and beachside vibe. It sits along a rugged shoreline with bluff overlooks, sandy beaches, and easy access to UCSB. The area blends casual dining, active outdoor life, and a lively nightlife scene that centers around Del Playa and Pardall Road.
While primarily associated with students, Isla Vista also offers scenic walks, surf spots, and a gateway to the broader Santa Barbara region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with the sound of waves and the scent of salty air at Isla Vista Beach. Grab a coffee from a local café and take a morning stroll along the shoreline, soaking in the sun and enjoying the vibrant coastal atmosphere. You might spot surfers catching some early waves or families setting up for a beach day.
As the sun rises higher, head to the nearby Campus Point for some sunbathing or beach volleyball. Pack a picnic lunch or try one of the nearby food trucks offering delicious bites, and enjoy a relaxed meal on the sand. Don’t forget to take a dip in the ocean to beat the afternoon heat.
As the sun sets, prepare for a magical evening along the beach. Join locals for a bonfire, share stories, and roast marshmallows as the sky turns shades of orange and purple. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as musicians often show up to play acoustic sets, creating the perfect backdrop for a laid-back night.
Begin your day by visiting the Isla Vista Community Center where you can learn about local events and activities. Take a leisurely walk through the iconic streets adorned with murals that reflect the vibrant student culture. This is the perfect time to grab breakfast at a quirky café nearby.
Visit the UCSB campus and explore its beautiful gardens and artsy installations, spending some time at the legendary Storke Tower. Stop for lunch at one of the student-focused eateries and then relax on the lawn while enjoying live music or casual games of frisbee. The campus is alive with energy and a great place to meet locals.
As the evening rolls in, check out a student-led theater performance or a local concert at one of the venues in the area. Head to a popular pizza joint or taco truck for a quick dinner that feels like an Isla Vista rite of passage. Wind down your night at a cozy student hangout with board games and friendly conversations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏠Rent for 1 bedroom (Isla Vista) | $2,000-3,000/mo |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $60-150 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $4-6 |
| 🍺Beer or cocktails (mid-range) | $7-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Great coastal access and campus vibe
- Vibrant beach culture with many casual dining and music options
- Limited parking and high traffic near campus
- Partying can impact quiet and safety in certain areas
Places to Visit in Isla Vista
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic coastline with golden sunsets, dramatic cliffs, and a view of the UCSB campus skyline.
Palm-lined beachfront avenue with ocean horizons—ideal for golden-hour photography.
Wide sandy shores and wetlands offering birds, reflections, and expansive horizons.
Elevated vantage point over IV and the coastline when accessible; great cityscape shots.
Food in Isla Vista
Isla Vista Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty burrito with carne asada, french fries, cheese, and pico de gallo, a staple in Southern California and widely found near UCSB.
Must-Try!
Crispy or grilled fish tucked into tortillas with slaw and salsa, a beachy favorite at coastside spots.
Healthy, fruit-topped bowls popular for a quick, refreshing meal or snack between classes.
Crispy double-fried chicken with spicy glaze, offered at several Asian-fusion spots around IV.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, prepared foods, and crafts; a great place to sample local tastes.
Casual pop-up venues on busy nights offering burgers, tacos, bowls, and other quick bites nearby.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be mindful of residential neighborhoods around IV; respect quiet hours and avoid loud noise late at night near dorms.
Littering and alcohol on campus property may be restricted; follow posted rules and use waste bins.
Respect wildlife and avoid feeding animals; keep dogs leashed where required.
Safety
Tipping in Isla Vista
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard 15-20% at restaurants and bars; round up for friendly service; tip delivery and takeout if applicable.
Most places accept cash and major credit/debit cards; contactless payments common; some street vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder daytime temperatures with occasional storms; bring a light jacket and plan for some wet beach days.
Wildflowers along coastal trails and sunny beach days; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Dry and warm days with peak beach crowds; ocean breezes can be strong; stay hydrated and sun-safe.
Cooler evenings and fewer crowds; excellent conditions for surfing and campus events.
Isla Vista at Night
Hiking in Isla Vista
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy coastal trail with ocean views and wildlife close to IV.
Family-friendly trails with overlooks and wide-open spaces in Goleta.
Steeper day hike with panoramic ocean and mountain views a short drive from IV.
Airports
How to reach Isla Vista by plane.
Close to IV, about 8-12 miles away; good for domestic flights and regional connections.
Major hub about 90-120 miles south; many domestic and international connections.
Located in Burbank, about 100 miles away; convenient for some routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest group; diverse, international, with many clubs and activities.
University personnel and researchers who live in IV and nearby areas.
Residents and long-term neighbors in adjacent neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A mainstay of the Santa Barbara area with reliable breaks at Campus Point and nearby beaches.
Popular on Goleta and IV beaches; friendly competition and pickup games.
Active campus leagues and outdoor fields around UCSB.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Isla Vista.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Abundant vegetarian and vegan options are available; many menus clearly label plant-based dishes and milk alternatives.