A lively and eclectic neighborhood just steps from the beach, the Funk Zone is known for its vibrant street art, boutique tasting rooms, craft breweries, and creative eateries. It’s the perfect spot to wander, sip local wines, and soak in Santa Barbara’s artsy, laid-back vibe.
Known as the “Queen of the Missions,” Old Mission Santa Barbara is a historic landmark founded in 1786 by Spanish Franciscans. Its twin bell towers and graceful architecture make it one of California’s most iconic missions. The grounds feature a beautiful church, a historic cemetery, a nine-room museum, and lush gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Don’t miss the rose garden across the street, a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
Super fun museum for kids and adults- right in the funk zone!!
They offer a wide variety of rentals, including beach cruisers, electric bikes, surreys, and specialty cycles. It’s a great spot to start a coastal ride or explore downtown without worrying about parking. They also provide self-guided bike tours and fun night rides with LED-lit surreys.
If you have kids, this is super fun, a boat ride from the harbor that takes you around.
The Santa Barbara Zoo is a charming 30-acre park near East Beach, home to over 500 animals representing 146 species.
Santa Barbara’s historic pier is home to shops, seafood spots, and sweeping ocean views. It’s perfect for a stroll, grabbing ice cream, or catching the sunset over the water.
For an unforgettable on-the-water experience, head to the Paddle Sports Center at the Santa Barbara Harbor. They offer kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals, as well as guided tours like sunset paddles and full moon excursions. It’s a fun way to explore the coastline and spot sea lions, dolphins, and other marine life.
One of the most iconic landmarks in town, the Santa Barbara Courthouse is a stunning example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture—often compared to a fairytale castle. Wander through the lush sunken gardens, admire the hand-painted murals, and don’t miss the clock tower. A quick elevator ride (or climb!) will reward you with panoramic views of the city, ocean, and surrounding mountains. It’s a must-see!
Nestled in the foothills, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden showcases California’s native plants across stunning trails, meadows, and woodlands. Enjoy peaceful walks, sweeping views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and Channel Islands, and a glimpse of the historic Mission Dam. It’s a serene escape just minutes from downtown. Open 10-4. Reservations required
The Santa Barbara Bowl is a renowned open-air amphitheater nestled in the foothills of Santa Barbara, California. Established in 1936 as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project, it was originally designed to host the annual Old Spanish Days Fiesta pageant. Today, the Bowl stands as one of the West Coast’s premier outdoor music venues, celebrated for its intimate ambiance, exceptional acoustics, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
A favorite among Santa Barbara locals, this moderate 3.5-mile round-trip hike climbs about 800 feet and rewards you with sweeping views of the city, coastline, and Channel Islands. The trail begins at the end of Tunnel Road and follows a mix of paved and dirt paths through chaparral and shaded switchbacks. It’s a great option for a morning or late afternoon adventure—just be sure to bring water and sun protection, as much of the trail is exposed.
East Beach is one of Santa Barbara’s most popular and scenic stretches of coastline. Located just east of Stearns Wharf, it features wide sandy shores, palm-lined grassy parks, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
A must if you love dogs!! Hendry’s Beach, officially known as Arroyo Burro Beach, is a beloved coastal spot in Santa Barbara. Nestled between scenic bluffs and the Pacific Ocean, it’s popular for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The beach is also dog-friendly, with off-leash areas east of Arroyo Burro Creek.
Beautiful beach in Montecito
A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Leadbetter Beach offers a wide sandy shoreline, gentle surf ideal for beginners, and a grassy park perfect for picnics. Located just west of the harbor.
Incredible Californian Korean food- our favorite restaurant in Santa Barbara! Reserve in advance! A few blocks form our house.
Loquita is a vibrant Spanish restaurant located in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, offering authentic Spanish cuisine in a stylish setting. The menu features a variety of hot and cold tapas, wood-fired grilled seafood and meats, and seasonal paellas, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients that reflect the Mediterranean climate of the region .
Great restaurant on Hendrys beach- have a drink or a bite while watching the people and dogs.
Super fun seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor! We take everyone here when they visit- feels like Boston or Maine.
I love this restaurant! Delicious food, Spanish, Italian. The owners lived in Barcelona for many years and have a restaurant there called Picnic
McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams is a cherished Santa Barbara institution, crafting premium ice cream since 1949. Renowned for their rich, smooth textures and commitment to quality, McConnell’s uses Central Coast grass-grazed milk and cream, organic cage-free eggs, and avoids stabilizers or fillers.
Santo Mezcal is a modern Mexican restaurant in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, offering contemporary dishes rooted in traditional flavors and local ingredients. Signature seafood items include Camarones al Mezcal (shrimp in creamy mezcal sauce) and Pulpo a las Brasas (grilled octopus with adobo and chile oil).
A beloved local gem known for its authentic street-style tacos, burritos, and an exceptional salsa bar featuring unique flavors like pistachio. Located at 217 Anacapa Street, Mony’s offers a casual, counter-service experience with limited outdoor seating.
The Lark is a celebrated restaurant located in Santa Barbara’s vibrant Funk Zone, offering a refined yet relaxed dining experience that highlights the bounty of California’s Central Coast. Named after the historic overnight Pullman train that once served the area, The Lark is housed in a former fish market, blending industrial-chic design with vintage and repurposed materials to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Great breakfast spot in the heart of the funk zone! Everyone loves this.
, it’s a go-to spot for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Favorites include their Lemon Poppyseed Pancakes with ginger blueberry sauce, a variety of Eggs Benedicts, and house-made pastries like scones and cakes.
Delicious, casual lunch spot in Summerland
Lucky Penny is a beloved eatery nestled in Santa Barbara’s vibrant Funk Zone, renowned for its artisanal wood-fired pizzas and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant’s exterior is uniquely adorned with over 150,000 real copper pennies, making it a distinctive landmark in the area.
Great restaurant, super fun bar as well! Steve martin used to hang out here.
Great Sushi spot across from the ocean!
Casual empanada place- delicious, authentic food, chill place!
Best sushi in town!
Good coffee, great garden to sit at across the street!
A winery on the wharf with incredible views of Santa Barbara. The wine is ok. The location and people are fabulous!
The Margerum Wine Company Tasting Room is located at 19 E. Mason Street, within the Hotel Californian in Santa Barbara’s vibrant Funk Zone. This stylish venue offers both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy their wines in a relaxed and elegant setting.
Santa Barbara Wine Collective is a stylish, communal tasting room located in the heart of the Funk Zone. It brings together a curated selection of small-production, family-owned wineries from across Santa Barbara County’s seven AVAs, offering visitors a chance to explore the region’s diverse terroir through side-by-side tastings.
Shaker Mill is a vibrant cocktail bar and eatery located at 418 State Street in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone. Drawing inspiration from the Golden Age of Cuban cocktails and the relaxed ambiance of coastal California, it offers a unique blend of tropical flavors and local ingredients .
Validation Ale is a community-driven brewery and gastropub in the original Funk Zone taproom. Known for its innovative approach to brewing and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.