We all have to admit, life in Isla Vista can get pretty repetitive, so if you have found yourself in this monotonous rut, there’s no need to fret. Thankfully, we live in one of the most beautiful cities in California with tons of outdoor activities to make our college experience more about then just the red plastic cup.

Here is a very short list of things that can make your college stay here in Santa Barbara more memorable:

Paddle Sports of Santa Barbara (117B Harbor Way/899-4925) – Get kayaking lessons starting at $60. Although the price is a little steep for poor college students, being out on the open ocean kayaking next to dolphins or whales would be an experience you’ll never forget.

Circle Barb Guest Ranch and Stables (1800 Refugio Road/ 968-3901) – Go horseback riding. Lessons start at $30. Ride along and enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and the canyons.

Santa Barbara Zoo (500 Ninos Drive/962-5339)- Even though Gemina the giraffe is not there anymore, go to the zoo to enjoy over 700 exotic and enclosed animals for only $11.
The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden (1212 Mission Canyon Rd.)- Hike along one of their trails and enjoy over 5 miles of beautiful flowers and plants. Enjoy beautiful views of meadows and historic Mission Dam.

Santa Barbara Courthouse (1100 Anacapa St.)- Take in beautiful Santa Barbara from the roof and peer over the city and the ocean. I recommend going at night, the view is amazing. Price: Free!

Mountain Bike through Santa Barbara’s numerous trails. To learn more go to Sbbike.org
Go surfing off of Leadbetter Beach (for beginners) or Rincon (101S, exit Bates Rd.)

Participate in volleyball games at East Beach (Cabrillo Blvd)

Play some basketball on any of the courts on campus.

Take in the views of UCSB & the ocean at the top of Storke Tower (893-8175)

Go Shopping at Paseo Nuevo or La Cumbre Plaza for some retail therapy.

And lastly, just get out there! There’s a whole other world outside of the enclosed bubble of I.V. Don’t be afraid to try new things, immerse yourself in the wonderful things this city has to offer. With the weather warming up, you have no excuse to avoid getting out and basking in all the great things Santa Barbara has to offer.