Check out this guide to the best beaches of Santa Barbara.
The hills above Santa Barbara are full of magnificent hikes for all levels of expertise. Bring your boots and explore - the trail heads are close-by, and the views are spectacular.
Santa Barbara has a rich and fascinating history and there is plenty of fun to be had exploring it. For instance, you may not know that many of the first silent movies were made right here, at Santa Barbara Studios. Check out the Santa Barbara Historical Museum's permanent exhibit - rich with history of the Chumash Indians and the Spanish settlement in Santa Barbara, there is so much to learn inside the adobe walls.
Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone has become a favorite in recent years. Over the past few decades, this district, which spans the area between the ocean and Highway 101 and is adjacent to the Amtrak station, has enjoyed an upswell of boutique tasting rooms, cafes, galleries, and shops that cater to Santa Barbara’s contemporary side. Whether you’re new to Santa Barbara or returning for the hundredth time, this ever-evolving artistic neighborhood is one spot to visit again and again.
If you’re making it a longer trip and love wine, we recommend wine testing in Santa Ynez.
For the craft beers lovers, Lama Dog is our favorite tap room in the area, located in The Funk Zone.
The first restaurant we went to on our first trip to Santa Barbara together and it’s one of our favorites. Amazing paella, Spanish tapas, and gin & tonic cocktails - you can’t go wrong.
A contemporary museum devoted to science, technology & the arts, with a focus on interactive exhibits. MOXI has engaging and vibrant interactive kids exhibits that we promise will have them begging you to go back.
Learn about Santa Barbara's history, explore the Butterfly Garden, and maybe even meet a friendly owl in their sanctuary for rescued birds of prey. When you're done, check out the historical Santa Barbara Mission right next door.
The Natural History Museum's Sea Center is located on the pier and is an interactive aquarium where your kids will learn about and interact with some of the Santa Barbara Channel's native sea animals.
Santa Barbara's Zoo is a great spot to enjoy with the kids. Feed the giraffe's, take in views of Santa Barbara's mountains and ocean, and don't skip the train ride around the different animal habitats.
A causal taco spot and a favorite of the late Julia Child.
A delicious restaurant from the same restaurant group as La Paloma Cafe and Loquita and located in the heart of The Funk Zone.
A hidden gem in the mountains behind Santa Barbara for some casual BBQ food. Worth it if you feel like taking a scenic drive.
Fresh seafood and spectacular ocean views.
Charming restaurant known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas.
While you can get McConnell’s in other locations, this fine ice cream originated from Santa Barbara and was founded in 1949.