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Light and Shadow
Light and Shadow - Photo by Dave Hoefler

Explore the Beautiful Beaches of Santa Barbara, California

About Santa Barbara, United States

Discover the beauty of Santa Barbara, United States, with its idyllic climate, scenic beaches, and charming Mediterranean architecture. Experience the town's cultural offerings such as art galleries, museums, and music festivals. Explore the great outdoors with hiking, biking, and kayaking. A perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.

Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city located in southern California, United States. Known for its stunning beaches, Mediterranean climate, and Spanish architecture, Santa Barbara is a popular destination for tourists from all around the world.

One of the most popular attractions in Santa Barbara is the beach. With miles of pristine coastline, there are plenty of spots to swim, surf, or just relax and enjoy the view. Some of the most popular beaches include East Beach, West Beach, and Butterfly Beach.

The city is also home to a number of historic landmarks and cultural attractions. The Santa Barbara County Courthouse, for example, is a beautiful building that offers stunning views of the city. The Old Mission Santa Barbara is another popular attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's rich history.

Foodies will also love Santa Barbara, which is home to a thriving food scene. There are plenty of restaurants serving up fresh seafood, local wines, and other delicious dishes. Some of the most popular spots include The Lark, The Lucky Penny, and The Black Sheep.

For those who love the outdoors, Santa Barbara offers plenty of opportunities to get out and explore. The nearby Santa Ynez Mountains offer hiking trails with stunning views of the city and coastline. There are also plenty of parks and nature reserves to explore, including Elings Park and the Douglas Family Preserve.

Overall, Santa Barbara is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to southern California. With its stunning beaches, rich history, and delicious food, there's something for everyone in this beautiful coastal city.

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Popular Stays in Santa Barbara, United States

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Santa Barbara, United States

General view

Santa Barbara Inn

Featuring free WiFi throughout the property, the Santa Barbara Inn is located in Santa Barbara, 2 minutes' walk from the beach. The hotel has an outdoor pool and hot tub, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or a drink at the bar. The rooms include a flat-screen TV. A balcony or patio are featured in certain rooms. All rooms are fitted with a private bathroom equipped with a bath or shower. For your comfort, you will find bathrobes, free toiletries and a hairdryer. Many rooms offer ocean or mountain views. You will find a 24-hour front desk at the property. Guests can also utilize the on-site fitness center. The on-site restaurant, Convivo, offers an Italian menu with an oceanfront view. Private parking with in-and-out privileges is available on site. Kayaking, sailing and paddle boarding are located nearby. State Street, which leads to the city center and numerous shops and restaurants, is located 1. 2 mi away.
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Business hotelsSustainable HotelPet friendly HotelsSport hotels

The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta, Tapestry Collection

If your idea of the ultimate Southern California retreat is longboards, poolside sangria cocktails and coastal cuisine, you've found your place in the sun at one of the best Santa Barbara hotels around. A one night penalty will apply to departures that occur earlier than the date specified on the original reservation.
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Business hotelsSustainable Hotel

Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry By Hilton

Built in 1916 and constructed with a stucco exterior, graceful arches, Malibu and Catalina tile-work, and decorative wrought-iron railings, this landmark boutique hotel is one of the finest and earliest examples of the California Spanish Revival style that defines Santa Barbara's architecture. Guests can enjoy spectacular views of the city and the mountains on the awning-covered balcony. The hotel features light and airy guestrooms that blend its historic ambiance with modern comforts such as 32-inch flat-screen televisions, Wi-Fi internet access, and handy microwaves and refrigerators. Guests can wake up to a delightful full breakfast on the hotel's outdoor terrace, which overlooks Santa Barbara, and might make use of the onsite business centre as well as free access to a nearby gym, all during a pleasant stay in Santa Barbara.
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The Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami

Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. You're sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, which include 2 outdoor swimming pools, outdoor tennis courts, and a sauna. Additional features at this resort include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge). Grab a bite at Lightkeepers, one of the resort's 4 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Relax with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge or the poolside bar. Continental breakfasts are available daily from 7 AM to 11:30 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include a business center, limo/town car service, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Key Biscayne? This resort has 30000 square feet (2787 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and meeting rooms.
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Business hotelsPet friendly Hotels

Mar Monte Hotel In The Unbound Collection By Hya

With a stay at Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, you'll be centrally located in Santa Barbara, a 1-minute drive from Santa Barbara Zoo and 6 minutes from Stearns Wharf. This 4-star hotel is 2.4 mi (3.9 km) from Santa Barbara County Courthouse and 2.5 mi (4 km) from Santa Barbara City College. Don't miss out on the many recreational opportunities, including an outdoor pool, a spa tub, and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services, and wedding services. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Santa Barbara? This hotel has facilities measuring 10000 square feet (929 square meters), including conference space. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite. Enjoy a meal at Lido Cafe, or stay in and take advantage of the hotel's room service (during limited hours). Unwind at the end of the day with a drink at the bar/lounge or the poolside bar. To-go breakfasts are available daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM for a fee. Make yourself at home in one of the 176 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and iPod docking stations. Your pillowtop bed comes with down comforters and premium bedding. 55-inch flat-screen televisions with cable programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms have designer toiletries and hair dryers.
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Business hotelsHotels with spa

Kimpton Hotel Canary

You’ve arrived in the American Riviera, with the best of Santa Barbara beckoning at your door. Surround yourself with enchanting Spanish architecture complemented by chic modern touches, and crowned by an exquisite rooftop pool with panoramic views. Savor a glass of local wine on arrival, then step onto charming State Street for an easy one-mile stroll to the beach. Cap your day with a visit to our restaurant Finch & Fork, and sample the seasonal bounty of Santa Barbara.
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Business hotelsHotels with charmHotels with spaSport hotelsFamily hotels

El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara

Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. If you're looking for recreational opportunities, you'll find an outdoor pool, a sauna, and a 24-hour fitness center. This Colonial hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge). Getting to the surf and sand is a breeze with the complimentary beach shuttle. Enjoy Californian cuisine at The Dining Room, one of the hotel's 2 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the room service (during limited hours). Relax with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge or the poolside bar. Full breakfasts are available daily from 7 AM to 10:30 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include express check-out, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in Santa Barbara? This hotel has 32292 square feet (3000 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and 7 meeting rooms. Make yourself at home in one of the 92 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring iPod docking stations and flat-screen televisions. Your bed comes with down comforters and premium bedding. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Mission Santa Barbara - 1. 3 km / 0. 8 mi- Santa Barbara Symphony Orchestra - 1. 5 km / 0. 9 mi- Santa Barbara Natural History Museum - 1. 5 km / 0. 9 mi- Alice Keck Memorial Garden - 1. 6 km / 1 mi- Santa Barbara Conference & Visitor's Bureau & Film Commission - 1. 8 km / 1. 1 mi- Alameda Park - 1. 8 km / 1. 1 mi- Santa Barbara Bowl - 1. 9 km / 1. 2 mi- Arlington Theater - 2. 3 km / 1. 4 mi- Rafael Gonzalez House - 2. 3 km / 1. 4 mi- Santa Barbara County Courthouse - 2. 3 km / 1. 4 mi- Granada Theatre - 2. 3 km / 1. 4 mi- El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park - 2. 3 km / 1.

Things to do in Santa Barbara, United States

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Santa Barbara, United States

Guests arrive to their next winery in a luxurious and roomy shuttle
Digital Voucher300 minutes

Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Ynez Valley

Grapeline offers an exceptional and comprehensive wine tour experience in the Santa Ynez Valley, with a focus on providing guests with a curated itinerary, expert guidance, and top-notch service. A Grapeline-crafted itinerary features three wineries, with tasting fees included. Allowing you to immerse yourself in the diverse offerings of the region without worrying about additional expenses. A delectable boxed picnic lunch adds to the convenience and ensures that guests have a delightful dining experience amidst their wine-tasting adventure. The concierge-class transportation with a knowledgeable Grapeline driver/host contributes to a seamless and enjoyable tour, allowing guests to relax and fully savor the Santa Ynez Valley's wine offerings. Grapeline has crafted a comprehensive and top-tier wine tour experience that caters to the desires of wine enthusiasts and novices alike, looking for a memorable and hassle-free exploration of the Santa Ynez Valley's wineries.
Santa Ynez Valley Cupcake & Wine Tour (All-Inclusive & Full-Day)
Digital Voucher300 minutes

Santa Ynez Valley Cupcake & Wine Tour (All-Inclusive & Full-Day)

This wine tour features a delicious sampling of cupcakes from a local bakery. Your group will be picked up by an air-conditioned shuttle in the morning. We will preview the day and head up to Santa Ynez Valley. Once there, you will enjoy wine tasting at three of the area's best wineries. Wineries visited vary based on availability. Your group will visit beautiful Los Olivos and enjoy an incredible cupcake and wine tasting. Your guides will cover local human history and insight into the wine region along the way. Included: - Pick Up from Your Hotel - Cupcake tasting - All wine tasting fees - you will visit 3 wineries of those listed - Deli-style lunch
The barrel room at Carhartt offers a great glimpse into the wine production process.
Digital Voucher420 minutes

Private Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country Tour

This is a beautiful, scenic tour of California’s Central Coast Wine Region perfect for any wine lover! This tour features tastings at three local wineries, lunch, door-to-door shuttle service and a knowledgeable guide for the day. Your guide will discuss local history and insights into the Santa Ynez wine region along the way. Need a custom wine tour for your group? Our office is happy to help! If you want something special, let us know and we can build a custom profile for your wine tour.
Santa Ynez Wine Country Shuttle
Digital Voucher420 minutes

Santa Ynez Wine Country Shuttle

Our Wine Country Shuttle service allows you to experience 2-3 wineries at your leisure for the day. At each winery you can opt to purchase a tasting or enjoy wine by the glass or bottle. Food options will be available for purchase either at the wineries or in the quaint town of Los Olivos. If you want to explore the breadth and diversity that the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country has to offer this is the tour for you! Our incredible guides will offer interpretation & history about the Santa Ynez Valley throughout the day.
Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour
Digital Voucher360 minutes

Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour

Enjoy a fun filled day on our Santa Barbara Wine Country tour. Join the small group as we explore wines from small production and family owned wineries. We work with 25+ wineries so the route varies from day to day. We give you the full wine tasting experience by visiting a mixture of vineyards and small production tasting rooms. *Please provide your email at the time of booking for important tour updates.
Private Guided Wine Country Tour from Santa Barbara
Digital Voucher360 minutes

Private Guided Wine Country Tour from Santa Barbara

Relax and enjoy a wine tour with your family and friends. We work with 25+ wineries, so the route varies from day to day and is tailored to your group’s preferences. Choose up to 3 wineries from our list of small production and family-owned wineries, or simply tell us your wine preferences and we will do all the work for you. We visit estate wineries on this tour. *Please provide your email at the time of booking for important tour updates. *Gratuities are not included. Please tip your guide.
Friends enjoy an All-Inclusive tour in Paso Robles
Digital Voucher360 minutes

Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Barbara

Grapeline offers an exceptional and comprehensive wine tour experience in the Santa Ynez Valley, with a focus on providing guests with a curated itinerary, expert guidance, and top-notch service. A Grapeline-crafted itinerary features three wineries, with tasting fees included. Allowing you to immerse yourself in the diverse offerings of the region without worrying about additional expenses. A delectable boxed picnic lunch adds to the convenience and ensures that guests have a delightful dining experience amidst their wine-tasting adventure. The concierge-class transportation with a knowledgeable Grapeline driver/host contributes to a seamless and enjoyable tour, allowing guests to relax and fully savor the Santa Ynez Valley's wine offerings. Grapeline has crafted a comprehensive and top-tier wine tour experience that caters to the desires of wine enthusiasts and novices alike, looking for a memorable and hassle-free exploration of the Santa Ynez Valley's wineries.
Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Locations in Santa Barbara
Digital Voucher420 minutes

Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Locations in Santa Barbara

SMALL GROUP/ SHARED WINE TOUR. This is not your typical wine tour. We offer private access to ultra small production, family wineries, estates and vineyard properties typically not open to the general public. Shared group wine tour is a maximum of 6-7 guests. Taste limited release wines at all private property locations, walk the vineyards and tour barrel rooms often with the owners or winemakers themselves at their private vineyard homes. Perfect for couples or small groups! No crowded commercial wineries or tasting rooms. All seated private area tastings. *VOTED BEST OF SANTA BARBARA 2013-2024*

Why People Love Santa Barbara, United States

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Santa Barbara, United States

AW
Annelore W
5
Jun 2019
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
Den här bussturen täcker in det mesta på ganska kort tid och väl värd pengarna. Vi hade helt fantastiska guider på vår tur. Luca, Dorrit och Roberto gjorde vår tur till något vi aldrig kommer att glömma. Ni var kunniga och fanns alltid till hands när man behövde er. Tack vare er fick vi se så myc...
S
stefliloo
4
Sep 2018
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
Tres complet, intense, des excursions bien choisies, hôtels confortables. 1j de plus cote californie aurait été mieux.
D
Dineshkumar_P
1
Jul 2022
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
8-Day San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Sedona, Monument Valley Tour from LA
AVOID AVOID AVOID. Terrible experience. Changed your bus many times, driver from Las Vegas to Arizona- Las Vegas last 3 days of the tour was worst ever had. First day from Las Vegas To Page, Arizona bus with no ac working with about 100 degree heat. It’s a worst dream. In Antelope canyon somethin...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Barbara

What are some must-see attractions in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. A few must-see attractions include the Santa Barbara Courthouse, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking in the Santa Barbara foothills is a must-do activity. And of course, the beach is always a great option. East Beach and West Beach are both popular options for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.

What are some popular activities for families in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a great destination for families. For a fun day out, the Santa Barbara Zoo is a great option. Kids will love seeing the animals and exploring the exhibits. Another popular activity is visiting the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, which offers interactive exhibits for kids. Families can also take a whale watching tour or go kayaking in Santa Barbara Harbor.

What are some romantic things to do in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a great destination for couples. A few romantic things to do include taking a sunset sailboat cruise, visiting the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, and exploring the historic Santa Barbara Mission. Couples can also enjoy a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley or take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway.

What are some of the best restaurants in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has a vibrant dining scene with plenty of great options to choose from. A few of the best restaurants include The Lark, which offers a farm-to-table dining experience, and Loquita, which serves up delicious Spanish cuisine. For seafood lovers, The Hungry Cat is a great option. And of course, no trip to Santa Barbara is complete without trying some of the local wines. The Santa Ynez Valley is home to many great wineries and tasting rooms.

What are some of the best beaches to visit in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is known for its beautiful beaches. A few of the best beaches to visit include East Beach, West Beach, and Leadbetter Beach. Butterfly Beach is another popular option, especially for sunset views. For a more secluded beach experience, head to Arroyo Burro Beach, which is located just outside of the city and offers great swimming and sunbathing.

What are some of the best hiking trails in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers plenty of great hiking trails. A few of the best include the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, the Inspiration Point Trail, and the Seven Falls Trail. For a more challenging hike, try the Cold Spring Trail or the Tangerine Falls Trail. And for a shorter hike with great views, head to the Douglas Family Preserve.

What are some of the best wineries to visit in the Santa Ynez Valley?

The Santa Ynez Valley is home to many great wineries and tasting rooms. A few of the best include Fess Parker Winery, which offers beautiful views and a great selection of wines, and Sanford Winery, which specializes in Pinot Noir. For a more unique tasting experience, head to the Lucky Dogg Winery, which offers tastings in a vintage Airstream trailer.

What are some of the best museums to visit in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has a rich history and culture, and there are many great museums to explore. A few of the best include the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, which features works by local artists, and the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, which explores the city's maritime history. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is another great option, with interactive exhibits for kids and adults alike.

What are some of the best hotels to stay at in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has many great hotels to choose from. For a luxury experience, try the Belmond El Encanto or the Ritz-Carlton Bacara. The Kimpton Canary Hotel is another great option, with beautiful rooftop views. For a more budget-friendly option, try the Hotel Santa Barbara or the Upham Hotel, both of which offer historic charm and comfortable accommodations.

What are some of the best day trips from Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is located in a beautiful part of California, with many great day trip options. A few of the best include Solvang, a charming Danish town just a short drive from the city, and Ojai, a bohemian town known for its spiritual retreats and art galleries. The Channel Islands National Park is another great option, with beautiful hiking trails and stunning ocean views.