Curator’s statement
I fell in love with Montecito fall of 2020 when we first visited this quaint town for a weekend getaway. There is something about this city that feels like it is a little slice of heaven. Located just south of Santa Barbara, Montecito, “little mountain”, is known for its beauty, and boy is she a beautiful place. Nestled above the beautiful beaches, this quiet little town, which was built into the San Ysidro mountain foothills, is truly a hidden gem. With boutiques, delicious food and amazing weather, a trip to Montecito is the perfect small town beach vacation.
Plus it's easy to get there, just 92 miles north of Los Angeles and 216 miles from San Diego. It is the perfect weekend getaway for those in Southern California.
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Things to do in Montecito
Beaches
Visit the beach in Montecito and nearby Santa Barbara. Situated on the gorgeous California coastline, this gem of a city has some beautiful beaches. Below are some of my favorite ones:
Butterfly Beach
Miramar Beach
Hammond’s Beach
LotusLand - 37 acres of grounds, rare plants on the grounds of Madam Ganna Walska’s house.
Montecito Library
Casa del Herreo
Hiking
Known for its natural beauty, Montecito has some of the most scenic hiking trails. Pack a lunch and enjoy getting out in nature. If you do take food, please remember to pack out what you took and dispose of any garbage appropriately.
Cold Spring Trail
Nojoqui Falls
Tangerine Falls
Saddle Rock Loop
Shopping
Upper Village - Montecito Village shopping center, take time to stroll around and pop into the various shops. Some favorites in town: Pierre Lafond Market & Deli, Jenni Kayne, Lost Horizon Bookstore, CODA Studi
Montecito Country Market
Coast Village Road
Maison K
Hudson Grace
The Nurture Cottage
Day trips
Santa Barbara - I highly recommend taking a drive or riding a bike into Santa Barbara and exploring State Street if you have never been.
Places to eat & drink in Montecito
San Ysidro Pharmacy and Montecito Coffee Shop
Renaud’s Patisserie and Bistro - amazing pastries. We always stop here at least once to grab something freshly made and delicious.
Bettina
Los Arroyos
The Honor Bar - my favorite spot to have drinks outside, or visit the market and grab something to go.
Lucky’s Steakhouse - the premiere steakhouse. Lucky’s is known for its steaks, fresh seafood, an expansive wine list and cocktails. Open for dinner nightly and lunch Friday - Sunday. Be sure to make a reservation.
Sushi by Scratch - intimate classic 17-course omakase experience and home of Montecito’s first Michelin Star. Please note that reservations are required, with three seatings nightly. You won't want to skip this experience if you enjoy sushi.
Jeannine’s - great for brunch, order the French toast.
San Ysidro Ranch -I highly recommend a visit here for a meal or tea, even if you are not staying on the property (which you should stay here if you can!). This is the perfect place for a wonderful dinner or drinks.
Tre Lune Ristorante
Pierre Lafond Market & Deli - restaurant, market and coffee shop. The perfect spot to look around, pick up some goodies and enjoy a bite to eat.
Travel Advisor
Jaclyn Hulburt
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Montecito page.