San Marcos Foothills Preserve

San Marcos Foothills Preserve is a 301-acre wilderness area located between Santa Barbara and Goleta, California. It offers extraordinary views of the Santa Ynez Mountains, the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands.

It's a bird lover's paradise - recognized as a 'bird hotspot' by the ornithological community. Hawks, kestrels, coyotes, lynx and hundreds of other species can be found here.

The well-maintained 2.6 miles of trails allow hiking and running, and in winter and spring are stunning with blooming wildflowers. Walking with dogs on a leash is allowed.