One Day in Santa Barbara

As one of our favorite beach cities just a short drive from L.A., Santa Barbara is a frequent destination when we want a quick getaway. Whether you’re passing through or staying for the weekend, these are our tips for where to stay, what to do, and – most importantly – what to eat!

Photo via Bacara Resort

Where to Stay:

The Fess Parker – Don’t be fooled by the Doubletree title. This hotel is top notch! Situated right on PCH with amazing views of the ocean, you’ll feel like you’re at a 5 star resort. Sip a poolside cocktail or head into town to explore…you’re minutes away!

Canary Hotel – This quaint eclectic hotel is a member of the Kimpton Hotel family and in the heart of downtown. It’s the perfect weekend getaway! Walking distance to State Street and the Funk Zone, it’s the perfect location! And their restaurant Finch and Fork has the best bottomless brunch in town!

Bacara Resort and Spa – If you’re looking for the ultimate escape, look no further than Bacara. This sprawling resort has everything you could ever want! Amazing views, world class restaurants, luxurious spas…you won’t be disappointed!

Photo via SantaBarbaraCA.com

What to Do:

Cloud Climbers – Santa Barbara is surrounded by amazing vineyards and beautiful wine country and the best way to explore it is by open air jeep! Go off-roading through the mountains to some of the best wineries in a huge open air jeep! It’s like a safari….for wine tasting.

The Funk Zone – If you’d like to stay a little more grounded but still want to experience the wine culture of Santa Barbara, head to The Funk Zone! It’s a district just off of State Street in downtown where all the best wineries around have their own tasting rooms! All are within walking distance of each other with live music on the weekends. What could be better?!

State Street – Shop. Til. You. Drop! State Street is home to some of the best shopping! This main street in downtown Santa Barbara is home to amazing stores and boutiques from all over! Plus, it’s lined with palm trees and sunshine, so it’s fun to stroll, even if you’re not shopping. And at night, it turns into a full on party so be sure to check out the bars after a day at the beach!

Photo via The Lark

Where to Eat:

Brunch – Remember the Canary Hotel we talked about? Well Finch and Fork is their darling little restaurant! With brunch staples like sweet potato hash and huevos rancheros, it’s the perfect way to fill up for the day! And their bottomless mimosa deal is to die for!

Lunch – If you’re looking for the best seafood in town, Brophy Bros is where it’s at! You’ll probably have to wait in line since this is a local favorite, but the seafood is so fresh, we promise it’s worth the wait!

Dinner – The Lark is one of our favorite restaurants of all time! Seriously. It doesn’t get much better than this. Amazing farm to table fare in the most beautiful atmosphere, it’s quintessential Santa Barbara. Ask to sit on the patio and cozy up with one of their blankets for the perfect evening! But be sure to make a reservation…it gets packed!

Dessert – If you still have room after all of that, head to McConnell’s for the most decadent ice cream ever! It’s a famous Santa Barbara institution so you won’t want to miss it!