Melanie & Sam
Things To Do
Franklin Trail
For our friends who love to hike - this is a glorious hiking trail that goes through the foothills of Carpinteria. After just about a mile up, you'll have a view of the valley and ocean! This is a relatively easy hike, and a must-do for any nature lovers out there!
Padaro Lane & Beach
Gorgeous beach in Carpinteria, just 5 minutes from the wedding venue! There are some cute shops and cafe's on this tiny strip, and parking is generally easy to find. Padaro Beach Grill is a great burger restaurant right overlooking the water!
Funk Zone
Visit Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, complete with boutique tasting rooms, cafes, galleries, and shops that cater to Santa Barbara’s contemporary side. Do the "Urban Wine Trail," check out the local breweries, and catch live music most evenings!
Stearns Wharf
One of Santa Barbara's landmarks! Walk the wharf, grab some food & drinks at the end, and find one of the best places to watch the sunset!
State Street
Santa Barbara's downtown area - plenty of shops, cafes, galleries, and more! You can walk from the water up to Santa Barbara's historic mission!
Santa Barbara Historical Museum
A classic adobe house brings Santa Barbara's history to life in a magical and beautiful way. (This was also a top contender for our wedding venue!)
Santa Barbara Museum Of Art
Founded in 1941, it is home to both permanent and special collections, the former of which includes Mexican, Asian, American, and European art that spans 4,000 years from ancient to modern. Find Mel's "Auntie Sue" at the wedding and ask her about it!
Mission Rose Garden
A beautiful rose garden right in front of Santa Barbara's historic mission!
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Experience the local natural beauty of Santa Barbara!
Santa Barbara Zoo
You won't find a prettier outdoor zoo anywhere else. These giraffes have QUITE the view!
Lotusland
Gorgeous private garden & estate! Tours must be scheduled in advance, so check their website for more information.
El Matador State Beach
We had our engagement pictures taken here, as this is one of the most picturesque beaches the LA area has to offer. We definitely recommend driving from Santa Barbara down the Pacific Coast Highway to reach this beach.
Santa Ynez Valley
Wine Tasting & Nature Galore! Walk through the cute town of Los Olivos & Danish town, Solvang! If you've seen the movie Sideways, this is where it took place.
Disneyland
"THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH!" - Mel "Surprisingly better than expected." - Sam
Big Sur
Many of our guests are coming from out of town. If you're planning on exploring California before or after the wedding, consider the place we went on our first road trip - Big Sur! Combining the majesty of the redwoods with mystical ocean waters, this place is high on our list of favorite places in the world!
Idyllwild-Pine Cove
For our guests exploring CA before or after the wedding, consider the magic forest of Idyllwild! This is where Mel went to high school, and is the cutest artsy mountain town you'll find. Amazing hiking, great bistros, and views for days.