Did you know that Santa Barbara is often referred to as "the American Riviera"? There are a variety of things to do while here - from beaches to shopping to cultural venues such as the Santa Barbara Museum of Art - there is something for everyone.
Here are some of our picks to make your stay memorable and enjoyable:
State St. - Santa Barbara's main artery, State St. runs right through scenic downtown and is home to many stores and restaurants. We recommend a stroll starting at Victoria & State St. down to the beach at Cabrillo Bvld. Some of our recommended places to eat are located on or just off this street. The Paseo Nuevo shopping plaza which contains a Nordstrom's, Banana Republic and Victoria's Secret.
Beaches - Along Cabrillo Blvd is East & West Beach, famous for it's volleyball athletes, sunbathers, and Stearns Wharf. Take a stroll along the waterfront with a cup of coffee early morning and watch the kayakers paddle along the coast.
Stearns Wharf – Adjacent to Santa Barbara Harbor, features shops, several restaurants, and the newly rebuilt Ty Warner Sea Center.
Santa Barbara Mission - Just around the corner from the Montalvo's homestead is the Santa Barbara Mission - also known as "Queen of the Missions" - Santa Barbara's "Old Mission" is a superb example of California's Franciscan Spanish architecture. The tenth California Mission to be constructed, Mission Santa Barbara today is both a scenic wonder and a fine anthropological study of original native culture in the surrounding area. Well worth a visit, be sure to take note of adjacent pottery kiln and tanning vat ruins. Located at 2201 Laguna St. You can easily walk from State St./downtown if you so choose.
Santa Barbara Museum of Art - Ranked among the top 10 regional art museums in the United States, this gem is located on upper State St. and close to many of our wedding venues.
Coast Village -Walk the upscale neighborhood of Montecito along Coast Village Rd. - known as Santa Barbara's 'Rodeo Drive' - here you can shop, have a drink at the wine bar in the Montecito Inn, or simply have a gelato.
In addition to the above activities, there is hiking, bike riding and nude sunbathing.
Wine Tasting
Miles speaks fondly of the red wine varietal Pinot Noir, while denigrating Merlot in the movie "Sideways". Just a short drive north into the Santa Ynez Valley is some of the most amazing wines. Home to more than 200 wineries, vineyards and tasting rooms, the Santa Ynez Valley boasts some of the most beautiful country side.
