Santa Barbara, California (@VisitSantaBarbara) is also known as “The American Riviera” for its beautiful beaches, impressive mountains, robust F&B offerings, and overflowing arts and culture scene. Get the inside scoop from this “1, 2, 3 Destination Guide” from a Central Coast expert, Molly O’Brien (@metropolitanmolly).
TO STAY:
The Kimpton Canary Hotel (@canaryhotel)
This luxury boutique hotel is just steps from State Street, and features idyllic Spanish-style architecture and a colorful interior design. With a 6th floor rooftop pool, bar and sweeping views of the ocean — it’s an ideal place to set as home-base for city exploration. (📷: @missenchoa, @jessfairchild)
TO EAT:
This restaurant celebrates the innovative cuisine and flavorsome tastes of Oaxaca, Mexico with an open kitchen to watch fresh tortillas being prepared and a lively bar with hand-crafted cocktails (margs are a must-try). Patio seating offers views of the wharf, beach, and coastline.
This trendy spot in the iconic Funk Zone (@thefunkzone) neighborhood celebrates naturally grown Santa Barbara County provisions sourced from local wineries, farms, and waters with delicious seasonal cuisine in a modern, urban setting.
TO DO:
Kayak Tour Santa Barbara Adventure Co (@sbadventure)
Take a kayak tour of the Gaviota Coast, which is one of the few remaining sections of undeveloped, open coastline in California. It’s home to 1,500 species of plant and animal life — and you might even encounter dolphins or sea lions.
Explore Lotusland (@lotuslandgarden)
Ganna Walska Lotusland is a 37-acre botanic garden nestled in the Santa Barbara hills up on a historic estate. From ferns, to aloes, lotuses, water lilies, bromeliads and a robust cactus garden — visitors can explore the tranquil grounds’ exotic plants for hours to fully immerse themselves in the power of nature. (📷: @yours.chuly)
Wine Tasting (@santabarbarawinecountry)
Whether you’re looking for an urban wine tasting with local favorite SAMsARA Wine Co. (@samsarawineco), or a tasting experience that’s a bit further out of the city — there’s no shortage of fabulous wine venues in Santa Barbara.
