Curator’s statement
A small-but-mighty city on the beach, Santa Barbara epitomizes all things California, minus the LA Glitz, Bay Area tech culture and traffic. You can visit as a one-city trip or as an in-between. It's a wonderful getaway with enough to do as a single, couple, family, group or divide and conquer and share stories over dinner. There is truly something for everyone and it's a solid 3–4-day trip.
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Where to stay in Santa Barbara
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Things to do in Santa Barbara
I'm a New Yorker with a younger brother who has lived in Santa Barbara for 3.5 years. My thoughts and recommendations combine that duality. It's wonderful to visit, with nearly perfect weather year-round! It's not as much "lay on the beach" as you'd think, but there are very beachy vibes with boats, kayaks, SUP and a surf culture. Always a refreshing and relaxing visit.
Beaches: In addition to the ones right by state st and the funk zone, check out hendries.
Golf: Municipal courses are pretty.
Tennis: Odd, depends on time of year.
SB Art Museum: Serious collection for a small city! Take the tour that comes with admission, 1 hour.
Lotusland: Special, best kept secret place, with a wild story; spring for the docent and plan on 2 hours.
SB Bowl for Concerts: If you are into an artist, GO!
Day Trips
Ojai
Los Olivos
Vineyards: Demetria and others
Northern LA (if you are that adventurous)
If you're doing a coastal drive, make SB your 3-4 day stop in this region.
Places to eat & drink in Santa Barbara
Bettina: Farmers market salads and authentic pizzas - a real jolt of Italy / NYC in Montecito.
SB Farmers Market: lovely, even for some snacks.
Dune Coffee: Great coffee and garden with Wi-Fi.
Convivo: While in a hotel, the food was surprisingly off the charts!
Loquita: Tapas
Sama Sama: Southeast Asian
Wine tasting rooms: Browse based on tastes.
Any place with a line: We are skeptical, it might be good, but is it REALLY worth it?
Let's talk about customizing this itinerary for you. Or, about other destinations.
Travel Advisor
Lauren Goldstein
Get in touch with Lauren
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Mary Alexa Divver’s guide, Guide to a Weekend Away in Santa Barbara.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Santa Barbara.