Things To Do

Wine Tours

Landmarks, Aesthetics & Culture

"Santa Barbara has been considered “The American Riviera” dating back to the 1800s. Step back in time to learn about the region’s history at the Old Mission Santa Barbara and El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park. Wander through downtown’s adobes and tiled courtyards draped in bright fuchsia bougainvillea as you browse boutiques. Take in the 360-degree city-to-sea view from the top of the iconic Santa Barbara County Courthouse clocktower. Visit preserved estates and gardens like Lotusland and Casa del Herrero to gain an understanding of why the rich and famous (Harry and Megan and Oprah, to name drop a few) have long chosen to plant roots in dreamy Montecito. Art lovers will find inspiration at the impressive Santa Barbara Museum of Art. The landmark theaters host a steady stream of performing artists, from popular music and comedy at the Santa Barbara Bowl and jazz and dance at the Lobero Theatre, to classical music and drama at The Granada."

Beaches

The Funk Zone

Located near lower State Street and Santa Barbara’s famed waterfront, The Funk Zone is one of Santa Barbara’s most vibrant and evolving neighborhoods. Once a manufacturing hub and industrial area where artists, surfboard shapers and pioneering urban winemakers originally set up shop, the walkable 13-block area is now home to some of the city’s best restaurants, wine tasting rooms, breweries, boutiques, creative collectives, galleries, hotels and more. It’s also a hot spot for delectable tacos created by our welcoming “Like a Local” Funk Zone insider, Monica Diaz, owner of Mony’s Mexican Food. For a guide on what to do, taste and shop in the zone, check out the link!

The Great Outdoors

Start your day with a sunrise hike along one of the many front country trails. Bike around town and along the coastal scenic pathway from the Harbor to Butterfly Beach. Spend a day at one of the many beaches, or get out on the water for kayaking, surfing, and sailing. You can go horseback riding, paragliding, and even hot air ballooning. The sky’s the limit when it comes to seeking tranquility and thrills in the great outdoors of Santa Barbara

Island Escapade

A trip to the majestic Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary is as epic as it gets—the islands are considered the Galapagos of North America. Book a daylong trip to Santa Cruz Island with two local, knowledgeable outfitters: Channel Island Expeditions and Santa Barbara Adventure Company. With trips departing daily, you’ll be able to get in on the action with a variety of excursions with varying length and style. After traveling 25 miles from the mainland—spotting whales and dolphins en route—expect to have your breath taken away by the pristine environment. Your jaw will continue to drop as you kayak over crystalline waters, along jutting cliffs, and through sea caves. (you’ll get the chance to explore Painted Cave—one of the world’s largest sea caves.) Your adventure doesn’t have to stop when the kayaking ends: Snorkeling gear and wetsuits are available through both of these companies so you can explore the marine life from underwater.