Santa Barbara, CA
This central coast city, which sits on an idyllic stretch of coastline and is sheltered by the foothills of the Santa Ynez mountains, has a Mediterranean-like climate and a civility that feels downright European. In fact, it once was European: the Spanish settled the city in the 1600s, and the Mission Santa Barbara is still one of the city's most treasured landmarks. It’s a popular weekend destination for Angelinos but is also accessible for out of towners via the Santa Barbara airport or Pacific Surfliner train that runs from Central California to San Diego.
Milk & Honey Tip
Check out the local Farmers Market - it’s been around since 1983 and has products from over 130 local growers!
Eat
Offering the ultimate in effortlessly chic California dining experiences, the top-notch chefs at Finch & Fork personally source Santa Barbara County ingredients to bring you fresh, simple, local food. Be sure to wash down your meal with one of the restaurant’s famous spiked milkshakes. With one of the best views in Santa Barbara, the Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach is a must-see. Obsessed with all things fresh and local, the brilliant chefs at State & Fig offer a constantly changing menu made from seasonal, sustainable, locally-source products.
Play
Santa Barbara’s hippest neighborhood, the Funk Zone, deserves to be at the top of every visitor’s agenda. Flooded with all things bohemian and cool, you could spend weeks exploring the remarkable studios, galleries, boutiques, and hip restaurants. Out of all the beautiful beaches around Santa Barbara, Butterfly Beach is one of our top picks. With smooth sand and a laid-back vibe, this is just the place to relax and watch the waves. When you’re ready to get your blood pumping, head to Santa Barbara Harbor to rent paddle boards, kayaks, and bikes. Founded in 1786, Mission Santa Barbara is a great place to start exploring and learning about Santa Barbara’s Spanish roots. Plan for a good hour here to take in Mission’s incredible artwork and architecture.
Sleep
Hotel Californian [Boutique]
Featuring Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and modern Moorish themed interior décor from celebrity designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, the Hotel Californian is the new center of the Santa Barbara waterfront. Incorporating the façade of the original 1925 Hotel Californian, this 121 room seaside destination features a rooftop pool and event deck providing panoramic views of the coastline and the Santa Ynez Mountains. Located steps from the beach, one block from Santa Barbara Amtrak Station and adjacent to Santa Barbara’s vibrant Funk Zone, the Hotel Californian includes a luxurious Turkish-inspired spa, fashion boutique and fresh and distinctive dining options.
Belmond El Encanto
[Luxury]
Belmond El Encanto captures the grace and romance that endeared it to the local community and visitors alike since 1918. Choose from 92 suites and bungalows that dot seven acres of pristine gardens and enjoy sweeping ocean and Santa Barbara views. Original architectural features are delightful, complemented by modern additions, including a zero-edge swimming pool and lavish spa. California cuisine enhances the Belmond El Encanto experience.
San Ysidro Ranch [Experiential]
At San Ysidro Ranch, it's easy to hide away in one of 41 individually decorated cottages and suites, thoughtfully sited along the resort's hillside paths, neighboring the pleasant creek. Each offers a king-size bed, fireplace and patio, while the newest boast an outdoor hot tub and rain shower, as well as a flat-screen television. It's little wonder that John and Jackie Kennedy honeymooned here — to this day, the resort is legendary for its discreet personal service and stunning natural environment. The Stonehouse offers remarkable regional cuisine, with herbs and vegetables harvested from the on-site garden.
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