Explore
Test Pilot
Handcrafted exotic cocktails in kitschy mugs are the draw at this breezy, tiki-style watering hole. Keegan's go-to drink: Cacao Negroni
Loquita Santa Barbara
Loquita showcases the flavors and traditional cooking methods of Spain with hot and cold tapas, wood-fired seafood, grilled meats and three types of paella. Reservations recommended.
Les Marchands
Located in the Funk Zone. Walking distance from Test Pilot and popular restaurant, The Lark. Spacious wine bar & vino vendor pairs Euro-focused vintages from a deep cellar with light nibbles. We recommend trying their house-made locally sourced charcuterie!
Cubaneo
California-inspired Cuban food on lower State Street. Open for lunch, dinner, and late night in a shared space with Shaker Mill cocktail bar and Modern Times Beer. Our faves: Pobrecito & Plato Mixto with Pork Roast.
Carlitos Café y Cantina
Fresh Mexican cuisine and award-winning margaritas across from the historic Arlington theatre on state street. Live music from Thursday through Sunday on a lovely patio.
Handlebar Coffee Roasters
Best coffee in town. There will always be a line, but trust us, it's worth the wait. There is another location on De La Vina St. and they offer a breakfast and lunch menu. Avocado toast anyone?
Arigato Sushi
The best sushi in Santa Barbara. The best. A reason to celebrate? This is where we go! Ask for a spot at the bar, and let them impress you with yumminess. Some of our favorites: Blue-man roll & Jalapeño Yellowtail Please note: they do NOT take reservations. There will be a wait. It is worth it.
Convivo Restaurant and Bar
Inventive, seasonal nomad Italian cuisine in a chic hotel setting with a patio & ocean views.
The Shop Kitchen
Elysia’s favorite spot. Order at the window and grab a seat outdoors. She recommends the Salmon In-Yo-Face.
Paseo Nuevo
Paseo Nuevo is Santa Barbara's premier shopping destination in the heart of downtown! Shop at Nordstrom, Sephora, GAP, Aveda and over 50 more shops. The beautiful paseo, courts and terrace lend a perfect setting for take a rest during a busy day of shopping. And when its time refuel visit Nordstrom Marketplace Café or Eureka! Gourmet Burgers for a delicious and fulfilling snack or meal.
The Funk Zone
The Funk Zone is Santa Barbara's growing art community that's also home to the Urban Wine Trail, local breweries, small retailers and surfers. Bordered by State St., Stearns Wharf and East Beach, the Funk Zone comprises about ten very walkable blocks adjacent to the train station, ocean and downtown Santa Barbara.
Boathouse at Hendry's Beach
One of the few ocean front restaurants in Santa Barbara, Boathouse will not disappoint. Good for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Happy Hour, you pick. Who doesn't like a full bar with an ocean view? Pro tip: Call ahead and get your name on the waiting list.
Stearns Wharf
Completed in 1872 , Stearns Wharf is the oldest wooden chart in continuous use in California. The wharf is located at the end of State Street and is one of the most visited placed in Santa Barbara. Today, there are 17 businesses on Stearns Wharf including shops and restaurants, a shellfish market, and two educational facilities; the Channel Islands Exhibit Hall and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, which is an interactive facility for ocean education. Visitors also have the option of taking cruises and water taxis from the wharf. Pro Tip: Check out Deep Sea Tasting Room. Here you can sip on your choice of wine while enjoying 360 degree views of the Pacific coastline, Channel Islands, Santa Barbara Harbor and the Riviera. This is one of the best views in Santa Barbara!
Santa Barbara Public Market
Basically Santa Barbara's version of Union Market in DC. The SBPM in downtown Santa Barbara offers visitors the opportunity to browse and shop for handcrafted items and locally grown products. Some of the numerous retailers include Empty Bowl Gourmet Noodle Bar, Corazón Cocina, il Fustino Oils and Vinegars, and many more. Fun Fact: Elysia & Keegan met "unofficially" at the grand opening of Corazón Cocina.
Mission Santa Barbara
Known as the crown jewel of California's missions, you’ll get a good dose of early Santa Barbara history as you wander through the ancient walls either docent-led or running solo. The Rose Gardens and Lawn nearby is also a great place for a picturesque picnic while soaking up some sunshine.
Lotusland
Named one of the 10 best gardens in the world, Lotusland is home to over 3,000 plants from the world over and the horticultural passion of an extraordinary woman. This 37-acre historic estate features more than 14 distinct gardens uniquely intertwined to create one of the most spectacular botanic experiences in the country. Because Lotusland is a public garden operating in a private, residential neighborhood, advance tour reservations are required to visit.