Douglas Family Preserve

Perched on the scenic coastal bluffs towering over the Pacific Ocean, the Douglas Family Preserve is a true gem of Santa Barbara. This remarkable public space in the USA covers an area of about 28 hectares (70 acres) and is the largest undeveloped natural area within the city limits. The park offers visitors a unique combination of open panoramic views and shaded groves.

The preserve is famous for its coastal landscapes, where you can find ancient oaks, thick blackberry brambles, and typical California sagebrush. This site has become home to numerous bird species and Monarch butterflies, and from the cliff tops, you can often spot dolphins and even majestic whales swimming along the shore. Locals value it for its tranquility and the absence of commercial development, creating an atmosphere of total harmony with nature.

One of the park's key features is its location directly above the famous Arroyo Burro Beach. An extensive network of trails, totaling over 5 kilometers (3 miles), makes it an ideal spot for outdoor activities, whether it's a morning run or a leisurely stroll with the whole family.

For current information regarding visitation rules or volunteer opportunities, you can contact the city's Parks and Recreation Department. The administration actively communicates with visitors to ensure the preservation of this natural area for future generations. Below are the key contact details for communication and navigation.

The preserve offers many opportunities for both active and contemplative recreation. You can go for a hike or a run along the winding trails that lead through fragrant shrubs to the very edge of the cliffs. Cyclists will also find suitable routes here, which on clear days offer stunning views of the distant Channel Islands. For thrill-seekers, the park is a popular launch point for paragliding and hang gliding.

Wildlife watching is another fascinating activity. From the coastal outcrops, it's easy to observe marine life: seals are often seen frolicking in the waves, and during migration season, you can spot whale spouts. Photographers and romantics flock here toward evening, as the sunsets over the Pacific at this location are considered some of the most beautiful in the region.

The park is especially popular among dog owners, as there is a designated off-leash area where pets can run freely. After your walk, you can descend to the ocean at the neighboring Arroyo Burro Beach to relax by the water or have dinner at the well-known Boathouse restaurant located nearby.

Getting to this natural corner in the Mesa neighborhood is quite simple, as it is located very close to the city center and major transportation routes. The main entrances to the park are located on Borton Drive, Mesa School Lane, and Medcliff Drive. If you are driving from U.S. 101, you will need to head north, then turn onto Cliff Drive and follow it west toward the parking areas near the entrances.

Keep in mind that free parking along the adjacent roads is limited, so it is recommended to arrive early on sunny weekends and holidays. You can also reach the park via the Oak Grove Trail, which begins at the intersection of Las Positas and Cliff Drive, directly across from the popular Arroyo Burro Beach.

For those who prefer public transportation, buses run from the city center and stop within walking distance of the Mesa area. You can also always use taxi or ride-sharing services, which will save you the trouble of searching for a parking spot during peak hours.

The history of this picturesque location began in 1949, when Roy Wilcox established the famous Wilcox Nursery here. For several decades, the land was used for growing plants until the enterprise ceased operations in 1972. After the nursery closed, the fate of the site was at risk: there were plans to build residential complexes and a luxury resort on the territory, which would have changed the coastline's face forever.

Thanks to the decisive actions of local conservationists and ordinary citizens, a massive movement was organized to preserve the land in its pristine state. In 1996, residents managed to raise an impressive sum — over $2 million. A decisive contribution to the cause was made by the famous actor and producer Michael Douglas, who donated $600,000. These funds allowed the community to buy the territory from developers and transfer ownership to the city.

In appreciation of the actor's family's generosity, the park received its modern name — the Douglas Family Preserve. Today, it is not just a public space but a symbol of civic responsibility and successful environmental advocacy. The park continues to thrive thanks to special grants and endowments used for restoring the natural habitat of local species and maintaining the safety of the hiking trails.

To leisurely walk the main routes and enjoy the sea views, most visitors require 1 to 3 hours. If your goal is simply to walk the loop trail along the bluff (which is about 2 km or 1.2 miles long), it will take approximately 45–60 minutes of pleasant walking.

However, if you plan to have a sunset photoshoot, watch for whale migrations during the season, or head down to the beach at the foot of the cliffs, it's better to set aside half a day for your visit. Many people come here with pets or a book to spend a few quiet hours in the shade of the oak groves, so time flies by unnoticed.

The preserve is accessible for visiting at any time that suits you, as it is open 24/7. This allows nature lovers to come here at sunrise for a run or late in the evening to admire the starry sky over the ocean.

Despite the lack of strict operating hours, it is recommended to plan your visit during daylight or twilight hours, as there is no artificial lighting on the trails, which is important for your safety.

A visit to the preserve can easily be combined with exploring other attractions that abound in the coastal zone and the region's historic center. The variety of nearby locations allows for a rich itinerary, including both historical monuments and modern cultural sites.

Within a radius of several kilometers, you will find magnificent gardens, museums, and famous architectural masterpieces. The surrounding area offers many options to expand your journey, from discovering the colonial past to studying marine flora and fauna.