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?
Travel Advisor
Lauren Goldstein
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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.