Santa Barbara — often referred to as the “American Riviera” — sits on an idyllic stretch of coastline sheltered by the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, with a Mediterranean-like climate and a civility that feels downright European. From celebrity residents to world-famous vineyards, it is one of the most sophisticated and charming cities of the California Coast.
Why Go?
- Beaches: Santa Barbara is famous for its expansive beaches and gentle ocean waves, perfect for surfing or a relaxing day by the sea.
- Nature: The Santa Ynez Mountains offer hiking, biking, kayaking, and surfing, with endless scenic vistas inland.
- Wine: Dozens of tasting rooms and world-class wineries within and around the city, covering pinot noir, chardonnay, syrah, grenache, cabernet sauvignon and more.
- Spa & Wellness: From hotel spas to dedicated wellness centers, Santa Barbara offers exclusive relaxation experiences.
- Shopping: State Street is the main route for shopping, set against mountains and ocean — almost like sightseeing.
- Food: Everything is locally sourced, farm-to-table. From authentic Mexican cuisine to fresh seafood to Santa Maria-style barbecue.
- Weather: An all-year-round destination with a Mediterranean climate.
What to Do?
Beaches
- Butterfly Beach — ideal for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing with spectacular sunrise and sunset views
- Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry’s) — perfect for dog owners, with the beautiful Boathouse restaurant on the sand
- East Beach — great for adventurous activities near the family-friendly Stearns Wharf
- Leadbetter Beach — popular for surfing, boogie boarding, and paddle boarding near Santa Barbara Harbor
- Refugio State Beach — 20 miles away, breathtaking views and camping
Nature
- Whale Watching — coastal waters are passageways for humpback, blue, gray, and killer whales
- Channel Islands National Park — the “Galápagos of North America,” with kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking
- Los Padres National Forest — camping, fishing, and swimming
- Romero Canyon — popular for hikers and mountain bikers
Wine
- Babcock Wine and Vineyards — family-owned, 30+ years, stunning Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays in Sta. Rita Hills
- Santa Ynez Valley Wine Tour — door-to-door shuttle service with tastings at three local wineries
Spas
- The Spa at El Encanto Hotel — coastal-inspired treatments, massage therapy, facials, and yoga on the beach
- Float Luxury Spa — body scrubs, massages, lymphatic treatments, and signature facials
Shopping
- State Street — well-known stores plus La Arcada’s local boutiques
- The Funk Zone — near the water, known for wine tasting rooms and eclectic shops
- Paseo Nuevo — open-air mall with local businesses, boutiques, and public art
Food
- Bouchon Santa Barbara — original “Santa Barbara Wine Country” restaurant, locally sourced ingredients
- Wine Cask — concierge-style service with “American Riviera” cuisine, all locally sourced
Where to Stay?
- Splurge: Hotel Californian — Santa Barbara’s premier urban destination with oceanfront views and mountain backdrop
- Budget: Hideaway Santa Barbara — newly renovated boutique hotel minutes from the harbor with mountain views
