Things To Do
Go to the Beach
Santa Barbara’s beaches offer plenty of activities to enjoy. Rent kayaks or paddle boards (linked below), play a game of beach volleyball, or explore the local shops and restaurants on Stearns Wharf. Take a walk along the scenic boardwalk, which stretches for miles. Nellie's favorite is Butterfly Beach!
Do a Taco Crawl
The Simon family has done a taco crawl in Santa Barbara the past two New Year’s holidays, and we highly recommend it. Some of our favorite spots: La Super-Rica Taqueria – authentic and casual Los Agaves – consistently great Santo Mezcal – excellent food and margaritas Corazón Cocina – Amelia’s favorite East Beach Tacos – next to a batting cage Logan loved
Hike
Santa Barbara has so many beautiful hiking options! Here are a few we recommend: Inspiration Point Trailhead – Great views and multiple route options (shortest is about 3.75 miles round trip). Note: Hannah & Amelia did get a little lost here once... but it was worth it! Douglas Family Preserve – A scenic, peaceful hike along the ocean. Rattlesnake Canyon – A 4.5-mile round trip with lush scenery and stunning views. Seven Falls – A 3.4-mile hike with several waterfalls along the way.
The Funk Zone
Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its mix of art galleries, boutique shops, wine tasting rooms, and craft breweries—all just steps from the beach. Some of our favorite spots: Loquita – Delicious Spanish cuisine Helena Avenue Bakery – Great for coffee, pastries, and breakfast The Lark – A favorite for dinner with locally sourced dishes
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
We love the botanical gardens! Takes an hour or two, but well worth it. Nellie got to join when she was a puppy!
Santa Ynez / Los Olivos Wine Country
Santa Ynez and Los Olivos are just a 30-minute drive (about 30 miles) north of Santa Barbara, could easily do as a day trip. Amelia & Logan are very fond of this area, we celebrated our engagement here! They are picturesque wine country towns, can enjoy wine tastings at renowned vineyards, explore charming boutiques, and dine at gourmet restaurants. We have lots of recommendations, to name a few: Demetria Estate & Vineyards, Sunstone Winery and Zaca Mesa Winery.
Explore Montecito
Logan and Amelia love to walk the downtown or through the neighborhoods along the ocean. A few favorite spots - Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery (Montecito), Bettina, Honor Bar, and Field & Fort.