Amy & Paul
Things To Do
Douglas Family Preserve
Very close to the wedding venue - great for a morning or sunset walk. You'll be sure to meet quite a few dogs, but beware it can be a bit dusty.
Hendry's Beach (Arroyo Burro Beach)
Very close to the wedding venue - great for a beach stroll. Popular with dogs (and their owners), but beware of tar in the sand. Either keep your shoes on or have some coconut oil or baby oil to wipe it off.
Boathouse at Hendry's Beach
This is where we announced our engagement to our families! Amazing cocktails and seafood and great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Mission Santa Barbara
An important piece of Santa Barbara's history - the Spanish missions were a central part of the European expansion into California. This is also where Amy's parent's got married! Explore its history and the beautiful rose garden across the street.
Superior Court Of California County Of Santa Barbara
A gorgeous example of the Spanish Colonial Revival style of architecture, the courthouse is definitely worth a visit. Be sure to climb (or take the elevator) to the top of the tower for great views of the city.
The Funk Zone
A fun, fairly new area of Santa Barbara known for its wine tasting rooms, cafes, galleries, and boutique shops. Within walking distance to the Santa Barbara pier and State Street.
Wheel Fun Rentals
A must! Rent a surrey (a 4- or 6-seater bike) and enjoy a stroll along the beach - really fun with a group!
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center
We recommend the Sea Center for anyone interested in local ocean life. The Sea Center focuses on the marine life and the related conservation of the Santa Barbara Channel. You can explore Stern's Wharf and the harbor afterwards.
Ojai
The town where Amy grew up! It has this adorable small-town vibe - great for a day trip. About an hour drive from Santa Barbara.
Solvang
This small town was originally a Danish settlement and it has held onto its history! It's well worth a day trip and it can be combined with tours of the Santa Ynez vineyards.
Ostrichland USA
Our most random recommendation, but if you head up to Solvang it's worth making a stop and feeding the ostriches - hold onto the food bowls tight!
Santa Ynez Valley
This is the heart of Santa Barbara County's wine country - a visit to 1 or 2 of the vineyards for a tasting is never a bad idea.
Firestone Vineyard
One of our favorite vineyards in the area, and their wine is worth the drive. This is also where Amy's youngest sister (Lizzie) and her husband (Brent) got married in 2015.
Channel Islands National Park
Our nearest national park - but this will take some effort to get to as you'll need to book onto a boat ahead of time. You can book a day trip (we did a kayak trip around Santa Cruz that we highly recommend) or camp. Note that there are no services or transportation on the islands so be sure to plan ahead!
Jalama Beach County Park
Looking for a quiet few days away? We love Jalama Beach! Rent a cabin, stock up on some BBQ food, and enjoy this remote spot along a long stretch of beach. A 1.25hr drive from Santa Barbara.
Big Sur
Going further afield, or driving to San Francisco? Drive up Highway 1 and spend a few days in Big Sur - you won't regret it! Gorgeous views, plenty of hiking, and a few cool spots on the drive up (Hearst Castle, Pismo Beach, Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery) It's a 4+hr drive, but you'll probably end up stopping on the way up. If you're continuing north, be sure to stop in Monterey as well.