A First Timer’s Guide to Santa Barbara

Located on a pristine stretch of California’s central coastline, Santa Barbara brings together the Golden State’s Spanish influence, laid-back vibe, and upscale sensibility in a way few places can. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of your visit to The American Riviera®.

Getting Here and Around

The easiest way to get to and travel around Santa Barbara is by car, and most visitors incorporate Santa Barbara into a longer road trip along the Route 1 Pacific Coast Highway. Santa Barbara is also served by Santa Barbara Airport with frequent service to and from select western cities. For a more leisurely journey, Amtrak’s Coast Starlight train pulls into town at Stearns Wharf. Hugging the coast from San Luis Obispo south to San Diego, the route offers a window to some of California’s most breathtaking scenery.

Where to Stay

In Santa Barbara, you will find accommodations for every lifestyle and budget. For a real splurge, there’s the El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel, with luxury rooms and suites, an infinity pool, and a boutique spa. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara offers another luxurious option with its beachfront location and world-class amenities.

If you prefer something unique, the Simpson House Inn and Montecito Inn are boutique properties in the downtown area with easy access to shops, restaurants, and the beach. The Castillo Inn provides great value near the Santa Barbara Harbor, while Hotel Milo offers a blend of beach chic and Spanish Colonial décor.

Chill at the Beach

Santa Barbara is best known for its broad, sandy beaches, and whether you’re looking to catch the perfect wave or the perfect sunset, there are plenty to choose from.

- East Beach: Located east of State Street, Santa Barbara’s main thoroughfare, and Stearns Wharf, the oldest working pier in California, East Beach is a favorite for volleyball courts and picnics.

- Arroyo Burro Beach: A flat, dog-friendly spot perfect for a game of fetch with Fido.

- Butterfly Beach: Located in Montecito, it faces west, making it ideal for watching sunsets.

- Leadbetter Beach: Popular for surfing, boogie boarding, and paddle-boarding.

Wine and Dine

Santa Barbara does not disappoint when it comes to food and drink. The valleys created by the Santa Ynez Mountains are dotted with rolling vineyards, and their tasting rooms welcome locals and tourists alike. If you prefer to stay downtown, Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail brings wine from nearby wine country to more than two dozen tasting rooms.

- La Super-Rica Taqueria: Famous for its fresh, authentic Mexican food, this taqueria was a favorite of Julia Child.

- Brophy Bros.: Offers delicious seafood with stunning views of the harbor.

- The Lark: Known for its farm-to-table cuisine in the trendy Funk Zone.

Embrace Nature

The beauty of Santa Barbara is that there’s never a shortage of outdoor inspiration. Just off the shore is Channel Islands National Park, an archipelago where you can kayak through caves, snorkel in pristine waters, and hike among wildlife. Whale watching is a must-do, with several companies offering excursions to see humpback, blue, gray, and killer whales.

Santa Barbara is also at the doorstep of the Los Padres National Forest, which extends from San Luis Obispo to northern Los Angeles. The nearby Romero Canyon Trailhead is popular with hikers and mountain bikers.

Be a History Buff

While Santa Barbara’s period of Spanish settlement is most enduring, the region was first inhabited by the Chumash Indians. Visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and the Santa Barbara Historical Museum to learn about these master basket makers and boat builders.

- Old Mission Santa Barbara: Established in 1786, it is the 10th of 21 California missions set up by the Spanish Franciscans.

- El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park: Offers a glimpse into the military and civilian life during the Spanish colonial period.

- Santa Barbara County Courthouse: An architectural gem with stunning murals and a beautiful sunken garden.

When to Go

There is no bad time to visit Santa Barbara. For a classic beach experience, visit in July and August when the sun and the waters are warmest. This is also high season with larger crowds and higher prices. Visiting in the shoulder season—late spring or early fall—is ideal because the weather’s still nice, but crowds have thinned and accommodations cost less. Winter is cooler and can be rainy, but you can still enjoy most of Santa Barbara’s attractions for a fraction of the cost and with more elbow room.

Final Thoughts

Santa Barbara’s blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and laid-back charm makes it a perfect destination for first-time visitors. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring historic sites, or indulging in local cuisine, you’re sure to fall in love with this coastal paradise. Enjoy your trip to The American Riviera®!