Curator’s statement
From classic coastal luxury to the secluded American Riviera, Santa Barbara not only offers incredible choices of high-end resorts and villas, it also boasts a carefully selected amount of luxury restaurants, bars, boutique shopping and activities. From the exclusive Rosewood and Belmond Hotel Groups to Acme Hospitality and Luxury Yacht charters, this celebrity-infused town is one of the most expensive cities in Central California. With its lush greenery, white-sand beaches and old Spanish and Mediterranean-style architecture throughout, it seems as though the sun is shining year around in this idyllic town.
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Where to stay in Santa Barbara
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Things to do in Santa Barbara
Sail Aboard a Luxury Catamaran
Santa Barbara offers many incredible boating excursions throughout the harbor, along the coastline and even to the beautiful Channel Islands. Our favorite luxury option is one of the largest luxury sailing catamarans on the West Coast, a custom built sailing catamaran, called the "Channel Cat." As soon as you step on board, you are greeted and pampered by personal attendants, all while embarking on a sun and salt filled luxurious sail. Experience the American Riviera while taking in the views of plush local mountain ranges, the silhouette of the Islands, long white-sand beaches and most likely a beautiful pod of dolphins.
With a small group of friends or a large group for a private event, the Channel Cat offers premium add-ons such as catering and bar options, live entertainment, photographers and more. If you are looking for a smaller romantic sail or luxury yacht options, we have some amazing recommendations for this as well!
Book a Private Beach Picnic or Lounge Setup on the Sand
With white sandy beaches for miles and sunshine for days on end, why not enjoy a beautifully curated beach picnic or upgrade your beach day with a stylish and comfortable lounge setup? These options are perfect for special occasions such as an intimate date night/proposal, group gathering, bachelorette party and more! With stylish in-house inventory for up to 40 guests, an al-fresco dining experience or lounge setup is the perfect way to experience the Santa Barbara outdoors.
Take a Day Trip to Wine County in the Santa Ynez Valley
Our favorite wine country tour is led exclusively by a local certified sommelier and wine educator. You'll be picked up from your hotel or private Santa Barbara residence in a luxury vehicle and will be introduced to the most amazing wine, wineries and winemakers in the region. Bypass the crowded tasting rooms and enjoy a local secluded vineyard, production facility or private estate. They work with us in tailoring the perfect wine excursion and unforgettable viticultural experience with their world class tour.
Enjoy a Private Exercise Class
Either on the beach or in the privacy of your own residence/hotel, we are partnered with some amazing exercise professionals who offer top of the line services. From a private yoga class on the beach to a group pilates experience in your backyard, we can help you avoid a busy exercise facility.
Summon Your Inner Cowboy/girl
Santa Barbara offers some incredible private horseback riding tours with sweeping views along the southern coast. Choose from a Montecito trail ride, Summerland sunset ride on the beach or a Santa Ynez Valley backcountry tour. Enjoy a personalized picnic or wine experience at the end of the ride to take it all in.
Enjoy a Walk on the Beach
With so many amazing beaches to choose from, we have a list of our absolute favorites (and most are dog-friendly as well.) Check out Carpinteria State Beach, Summerland Beach, Miramar Beach, Biltmore & Butterfly Beach, East Beach (has volleyball courts) and Hendry's Beach.
Take a Private Painting Class
Whether it be in a vineyard, on the beach, at the park or within the luxuries of your own home, we are partnered with some amazing local artists in the Santa Barbara County who offer fun and educational art classes. Add in some martinis and a cheese platter and voila!
Places to Eat & Drink in Santa Barbara
Restaurants
Bouchon: California wine country cuisine with fresh, local ingredients prepared with care. Their excellent wines reflect the quality and character of our region and work in sync with the cuisine. They offer a warm, inviting ambience with engaging service at a relaxed, leisurely pace.
Loquita: This restaurants showcases authentic Spanish food including hot and cold tapas, wood-fired grilled seafood and meats, and seasonal paella. The Mediterranean climate and terroir of Santa Barbara County mirror that of Spain, making the translation of locally-sourced produce, meats and seafood an ideal match. The wine list is comprised almost entirely of Spanish wines with exceptional local wines that pair well with the cuisine. Request to be sat on their patio and you will not be disappointed!
Tre Lune: Experience the fine flavors in life reminiscent of your last visit to Italy at this restaurant. They offer a thoughtful menu that isn't afraid of flavor, featuring memorable favorites. Diverse diners come for honest, high quality Italian cooking.
Yoichi's: A traditional Japanese multi-coursed dining experience with sushi that melts in your mouth.
Cocktails
The Manor Bar at The Rosewood Miramar: Retreat to the handsome surroundings of The Manor Bar for handcrafted cocktails, delectable hors d’oeuvres and selections from the bar’s coveted wine list. The Rosewood also has a beautiful beachfront bar that we recommend enjoying during sunset.
The Good Lion: A contemporary cocktail bar with an intimate space, inspired by the American Riviera, city of Santa Barbara, coastal Southwest Europe and Mediterranean Africa.
Pearl Social: An intimate cocktail and music bar intended to be a place of connection for our community to come together in a social and convivial atmosphere.
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Travel Advisor
Taylor Votaw
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