Paseo Nuevo is a picturesque outdoor shopping center. The architecture is Santa Barbara's signature Spanish Colonial Revival style, making it a beautiful place to stroll through or shop at. State Street nearby is a similarly charming street with local shops.
Adam visited this museum during Sarah's hair and makeup trial and had the time of his life. In his words, "If you love rocks, dinosaurs, sharks, and butterflies, this is the place for you! It’s small but mighty.”
Coast Village Road is a charming street in Montecito filled with adorable shops and restaurants. The east end near Olive Mill Road is a walkable strip with several clothing stores and upscale dining. The west end near Hot Springs Road is home to the charming Montecito County Mart, which includes French café Merci and Michelin-recommended Italian restaurant Bettina.
Cabrillo Boulevard is a beautiful beachside, palm-tree-lined street worth walking or driving through. Keep walking west on the sand to reach Leadbetter Beach or east on the sidewalk to reach the lakeside Andree Clark Bird Refuge.
Butterfly Beach is a more secluded cliffside beach in Montecito. It is one of the few west-facing beaches in the area, so you can see the sunset over the water.
We love the sandwiches for a quick yet filling lunch. Sarah recommends the El Cap, while Adam recommends the Gaviota.
Backyard Bowls is Sarah's favorite spot for açaí in Santa Barbara. She recommends the Berry bowl for a classic açaí bowl (but replaces granola with cacao nibs for a rich flavor), while Adam recommends the Hercules smoothie for a peanut butter and protein twist.
If you have time, we recommend taking a nearby day trip to another town! Santa Ynez (known for its Italian-style vineyards and rolling hills) and Solvang (a small town with Danish-style architecture right past Santa) are 40-45 minutes north of Santa Barbara. Ojai (filled with local businesses and some hikes) is 45 minutes southeast of Santa Barbara.