2024 Santa Barbara Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

Beautiful Santa Barbara Beach

Santa Barbara is very close proximity between the downtown and the the beach. It has very nice architectural of Spanish style. The beach is very stunning and they have pretty nice seafood restaurant: Enterprise Fish Co. #2023travelwish

360 degree view from St. Barbara Bell Tower

We visited the bell tower and from there we can enjoy 360 degree view of Santa Barbara with white walls and red brick buildings against the background of blue sky, green mountains and tall palm trees. The bell tower is part of city's Spanish Revival Santa Barbara County Courthouse. #2023travelwish

Presidio of Santa Barbara

Presidio is a Spanish word meaning “prison” or “fortification,” and it’s used to describe a specific kind of military fortress that was built by Spanish forces during their expansion into the New World. A well-known example of this architecture is the Presidio of Santa Barbara. Originally built in the 1700s, the Presidio of Santa Barbara has seen everything from wars to earthquakes. It’s one of the oldest surviving structures in the state of California, and it’s among the last of the military outposts that were built by Spain on U.S. soil. Its white adobe bricks are topped with red-tiled roofs. Its twisting hallways lead to gates, chapels, plazas, kitchens, bedrooms and training rooms. When you see it, you can’t help but think that it’s a landmark that has been frozen in time; you’ll be able to walk along the same paths as Spanish, English and British soldiers from centuries past. If you’re looking for things to do in Santa Barbara, consider this well-preserved presidio. It’s a must see for history buffs, culture lovers and military enthusiasts alike. Address: 123 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United State

Perfect easy day trip from LA

Hendrys Beach in Santa Barbara is an easy escape from LA. The beach is so long and it's so easy to escape the crowds and be on your own. The scenery changes from massive rocks and pools to sandy beach. The best lookout - Douglas Family Preserve. The admission is free, and it's perfect if you come in with the dog. The reward for driving there a stunning views of the beach and greenery from above. There are a few restaurants right at the beach, so it's an easy option to watch sunset and have a drink after a long stroll along the beach. #domestictravel #usa #california #100waysoftravel

Santa Barbara by night

What a beautiful place! 😍

Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping - 🕰️Business Hours:💰Average Price per Person:

Santa Barbara Travel Guide Sharing

Santa Barbara, also translated as Santa Barbara, is a seaside town along Highway 1. With a Mediterranean climate, it enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year and has the best weather in California. The architecture is mostly Spanish style, and it is also known as the American version of the Riviera (the original European version refers to the Cinque Terre in Italy/the French Riviera). 🚗Santa Barbara is 95 miles from Los Angeles, about 1.5-2 hours by car, and can be combined with a visit to the nearby Danish town. 🍀Note: From Los Angeles, you can also take a train to Santa Barbara (Coast Starlight and Pacific Surfliner), the station is in the city center, the journey takes 2.5 hours, and tickets start at $25. 📸Santa Barbara Attractions 1️⃣Stearns Wharf - Suitable for watching the sunset/eating seafood, can play for 30 minutes to 1 hour →Iconic wooden pier, located on the west side of East Beach, with restrooms, restaurants, and souvenir shops, suitable for enjoying the sea breeze, eating seafood, and watching the sunset. You can drive onto the pier, with the first 90 minutes of parking free, and then $2.5 per hour. 🍱At the end of the pier, there is a highly rated seafood restaurant: Santa Barbara Shellfish Company, Clam Chowder, Lobster Roll, and Sea Urchin are all highly praised. ⏰Business hours: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm 2️⃣Courthouse Clock Tower - Overlooking the red-tiled white walls of the city, free parking, can play for 15-30 minutes Built in 1929, Spanish colonial architecture style (white walls with red tiles, etc.), it is one of the most beautiful government buildings in the United States and a must-visit attraction in Santa Barbara. You can freely visit the interior, and from the 26-meter-high clock tower observation deck, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the small town. ⏰Opening hours: Weekdays 8 am - 4 pm, closed on weekends 🎟️Tickets: Free, street parking and the nearby City of Santa Barbara Parking Lot are free for the first 75 minutes 3️⃣Pink Church - Internet-famous church, most people take photos at the entrance, free parking, can play for 15-30 minutes A beautiful church built in 1920, known as the Queen of the Missions. Opposite the church is the Mission Rose Garden, with roses blooming from late spring to early autumn, most beautiful in June. Most people just check in outside the church and garden (no fee required). ⏰Opening hours: 9.30 am - 5 pm 🎟️Tickets: Adults $15, children $10, free parking 4️⃣Zoo - Small but beautiful zoo, tickets $25, parking fee $11, can play for 1.5-2 hours Very small, but highly rated, showcasing over 146 species/500 animals and birds. ⏰Business hours: 9.30 am - 5 pm 🎟️Tickets: Adults $25, children $15, must be booked in advance.

Hotel Californian

During my stay at Hotel Californian, I had a luxurious and unique experience. 🏨🌟 The rooms were elegant and comfortable, with beautiful design touches that added to the luxury. 🛏️✨ The staff were always helpful and friendly, making the service excellent. 😊🌺 I enjoyed relaxing in the facilities such as the pool and spa, and the food at the restaurant was superb. 🍽️🌊 The location was perfect, with easy access to local attractions. 🌆🌟 Hotel Californian provided an unforgettable stay, and I highly recommend it.

Santa babara trip It’s a nice one day trip on Sunday #santabarbara

🌟 Santa Barbara's Hidden Gem: Simpson House Inn 🌟

Nestled at 121 E Arrellaga St, Santa Barbara, the Simpson House Inn is a cozy retreat with a historical charm that modern hotels can't match. 🏡 The service is impeccable; when noise from a room's machinery was an issue, the staff promptly moved guests to a quaint cottage in the garden. 🌺 This boutique hotel may have a smaller garden, but its exclusivity makes it a perfect sanctuary for breakfast or a peaceful reading nook. 📚 Dining is a delight with afternoon 'happy time' and a scrumptious breakfast that's included in your stay. 🍳 The Simpson House Inn offers a homey vibe with personalized butler-style service. 🛎️ It's a healing escape with a quiet garden that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. 🧚‍♂️ Plus, who can resist a complimentary cottage upgrade? The daily fresh bakery items and evening happy hour with wine and snacks add the cherry on top of a splendid stay. 🍷 Definitely worth the splurge for a serene Santa Barbara experience. Highly recommended! ✨ #SantaBarbara #SantaBarbaraHotel #SantaBarbaraTravel

🌟 Santa Barbara's Seaside Escape: Ritz-Carlton 🌊✨

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara 8301 Hollister Avenue, California, 93117 🏖️ Nestled on the shores of Santa Barbara, this seaside haven offers more than just a stay; it's an experience! With its pet-friendly policy, bring your furry friend along for some fun in the sun! 🐾 🛏️ While the rooms may carry a vintage charm, they are well-maintained, offering that classic American decor. Yes, they're on the cozy side, but what they lack in size, they make up for in service and ambiance. 🇺🇸 🎉 From top-notch room service that'll make any occasion (like a birthday bash!) unforgettable, to the convenience of a stroll down to the pristine beach, every moment here is crafted for pleasure. Just a heads-up, watch out for those extra fees at checkout. 💸 # SantaBarbara # SantaBarbaraHotel # SantaBarbaraTravel

Santa Barbara's Luxe Stay: Hotel Californian 🌟🏨🌊

Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, the Hotel Californian might catch your eye with its chic decor and prime location at 36 State St. But, let's spill the tea on what you're really signing up for! 💸🔍 First off, this spot isn't for the budget-conscious traveler. Rooms may lack the grandeur of space and bathtubs, and don't expect sweeping ocean views from your window. You're paying for the postcode and the fancy trimmings, not a vast suite. 🛏️💰 Parking? That'll cost ya. And don't count on freebies to sweeten the deal; services come with a price tag. For a truly opulent experience, you might have to splash out big bucks—think north of 10k per night. Otherwise, you might feel like you're pouring your cash down the drain. 💔🚗 For those with deep pockets, sure, give it a whirl. It's a luxury hotel, so comfort isn't in question. Just know that your 'modest' riches won't unlock the full regal experience. Don't get dazzled by the hype; keep it real and your expectations in check! 👑🚫 Hotel Californian, 36 State St, Santa Barbara, California, 93101 #SantaBarbara #SantaBarbaraHotel #SantaBarbaraTravel

The Boat House is the coolest.

Best atmosphere, best ahi tuna.

Seaside Sea Life Watching at Santa Barbara Harbor

Spend an unforgettable day at Santa Barbara Harbor watching playful sea lions bask in the sun on the bait dock amongst pelicans and other seabirds. Their joyful antics and the peaceful ocean backdrop made for a perfect moment. Don’t miss it when you’re in #SantaBarbara and experience the #HarbourViews and #sealions 🦭🦭🦭 Five Star expeience ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

American Life | Best Escape from LA Destination - Santa Barbara Town

|Best Escape from LA Destination - Santa Barbara Town. What's the first thing you think of when you mention Santa Barbara? My words: Seaside, courthouse, church, the quiet seaside city with the roof of the bell tower is a good place to recuperate If there is time, I really want to live in this town for one or two months Blow the sea breeze and think about life Order a hot cocoa in a roadside shop and start gnawing a book The long corridor of the county court makes people want to wander there all day or climb up the EI Mirado bell tower to overlook the beautiful scenery of Santa Barbara Oh! Don't forget, there is also a mural room on the second floor that you definitely don't want to miss

I was amazed, indeed, Santa Barbara Hilton is different

On the first day of arrival, you must rest well, only with enough energy can you have fun So the first choice is ☞ Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort 633 East Cabrillo Boulevard, Santa Barbara Nearby attractions: Santa Barbara Waterfront 1.84 km Santa Barbara Zoo 957 meters Coastline Park 3.58 km Santa Barbara History Museum 1.97 km Santa Barbara Botanic Garden 5.38 km In your free time, going to the bar for a drink is a good choice. If guests want to dine comfortably in their own rooms, the hotel can provide room service. The hotel's diverse leisure facilities can create a diverse leisure space for every guest staying here, including a massage room and an outdoor swimming pool. The hotel has a hair and beauty center where you can do beauty salons. Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Santa Barbara palm beach

#freehotelstay

#freehotelstay

Los Angeles

i always book through Trip whatever I’m going to. my first choice is this website, due to the reliability and efficiency. the pictures were one of my memorable moments which booked which thankfully was through the Trip.

#mission #California #SantaBarbara

#timetotravel

#fallingseason is coming but here in Santa Barbara still feels like #summer! And #beachvolleyball seems to be the best way to spend the weekend! Amazing place.. and if you are hungry you can swing by at @convivorestaurant # and experience the best food!!

Morning Bliss: Coffee and Palisociety Vibes

Happiness begins with leisurely morning coffee at @palisociety. Find solace in the simple pleasures of life. ☕💖

Sunset Serenity at Palisociety Santa Monica

I meet the last day of summer at @palisociety on the beach of Santa Monica. As it turns out, this is now my new favorite thing to do - take a bike and ride through Palisades Park, listening to Arctic Monkeys. The ocean, flying planes, street musicians and white waves washing the endless beach. A mesmerizing sight, to be honest. We live 2 minutes from this place and every evening I come to sit on a cliff, spend the sunset and plunge into the blue hour, when the wind becomes stronger and water particles fall on your face. Refreshing not only physically, but also mentally. Definitely one of the most beautiful places in Los Angeles. Add Palihouse Santa Monica to your travel piggy bank, you won't regret it. #Palisociety #PalihouseSantaMonica

Roaming Through States: Onward to Arizona!

As the journey unfolds, I've wandered from California's coasts to the enchanting landscapes of Sedona and Phoenix. Yet, the road brings me back to San Diego before another leap into the beauty of Arizona. A keen eye might spot this transition in my stories. A thought strikes – do those who follow my feed differ from those captivated by my stories? An intriguing distinction in the ever-evolving narrative of my travels. 🚗🗺️

In California, a Spanish town was discovered.

⛪️About 100 miles north of the City of Angels, hills melt into the Pacific, and a relaxed beach vibe spills over into the city of Santa Barbara, California. Santa Barbara is known as the American Riviera for its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, heritage, cuisine and wine, natural beauty, and perfect weather. 🗓When to go? On average, there are 300 days of sunshine each year, with a mild climate and cool nighttime temperatures. 🏝Beach ▪️Santa Barbara is nestled between mountains and the ocean, a natural paradise with palm trees shading the streets. Next to Stearns Wharf is West Beach, a popular spot for volleyball players and a launch point for sailing and kayaking. ▪️Butterfly Beach in Montecito is a sheltered beach away from the crowds of the city center. ▪️Leadbetter Beach is another popular spot for kayaking, longboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding (the nearby Shoreline Park is also nice). ▪️The most family-friendly beach in Santa Barbara is Arroyo Burro Beach Park (or the locally famous Hendry's Beach). It has gentle waves, seasonal lifeguards, plenty of picnic benches, and a great restaurant on the beach. 🌅Watch the sunset from Stearns Wharf. Stearns Wharf is one of the most iconic landmarks in Santa Barbara. For us, it's a great place for a sunset stroll. There are several restaurants and cafes that seem to attract tourists, but the view might be worth it. They mainly serve seafood. It's a must-see attraction in Santa Barbara. 🏄Immerse yourself in the surfing life of California. Here you can find the best surfing in California, suitable for everyone from beginners to professionals. Gaviota and Jalama are places experienced surfers go, but if you're just starting out, Refugio State Beach is a good choice. 🐳Wildlife During the migration season (November to April), thousands of Pacific gray whales pass through the Santa Barbara Channel; from late spring to early autumn, humpback whales appear, and occasionally blue whales can be seen. There are many whale watching tours on the water, or you can hike along the cliffs to observe them from above. 🌊Natural wonder Strolling along the coastline of Santa Barbara and its surrounding areas, you may occasionally come across mini marine environments - tidal pools. When the tide recedes, organisms are trapped in the rock pools and other natural formations until the water rushes back in, creating these small ecosystems. 🏞National Park Outside the coast is the National Park of the Channel Islands, known as the "Galapagos Islands of North America". The park can only be accessed by charter boats and planes approved by the park or private boats. Island activities include hiking, camping, bird watching, photography, and more. 🗿Archaeological site Archaeological excavations are still ongoing at the El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park in the city center. Two original buildings have been restored and other buildings have been reconstructed, depicting the original Santa Barbara Presidio established in April 1782. 🏺Cultural experience With Spanish heritage, it celebrates this heritage every August with its old Spanish Day Carnival. During the festival, locals and tourists learn about the history, customs, and traditions of American Indians, Spaniards, Mexicans, and early American settlers through music, dance, parades, and food. 🍷Winery Driving north from the city center for 45 minutes, you will see many vineyards; there are more than 220 wineries in the county. The golden weather and soil mean that all grape varieties in the county grow well, and there are six official American grape growing regions here.

Guangdong Shixing Shixia Village Li Clan Ancestral Hall.

The Li Clan Ancestral Hall in Shixia Village was built in the 45th year of the Qianlong reign (1780), covering an area of 2600 square meters. It is a magnificent building and a landmark of the ancient village of Shixia. The ancestral hall has two entrances, three halls, and one courtyard, with 36 eaves pillars. The hall is decorated with lifelike dragon and phoenix carvings, showcasing the glory and splendor of the Li Clan. The exquisite craftsmanship of the building is evident in the clean and beautiful decoration of the beams, eaves, ridges, and window carvings of the ancestral hall, with various floral patterns. Here, you can touch the skillful craftsmanship of the old craftsmen and feel the profound historical and cultural heritage of the ancient village. Key cultural relics of Guangdong Province.

Santa Barbara is recognized as the most European-style city in the United States. In the heyday of the 20th century, it was the original "Hollywood" and many celebrities settled here. Santa Barbara Courthouse, known as the most beautiful government building in the United States, was built by Spanish immigrants 160 years ago and has been used for government offices ever since. The entire courthouse building is open to visitors without any security or management personnel in sight, showing remarkable openness and confidence. Santa Barbara beach is very peaceful, and the small restaurants by the pier are doing well.

Santa Barbara: Echoes of Familiarity

Santa Barbara's allure draws me back, where Spanish architecture and picturesque shores intertwine. Each corner rekindles memories of days gone by. Revisiting a place carries a unique charm – it's like revisiting a well-loved chapter of life. Each moment echoes a time filled with laughter and discovery. 🏖️🌆

Staycation at Santa Barbara

Located on the West Coast of the United States, Santa Barbara is the ultimate staycation paradise. With miles of sumptuous shoreline, golden beaches, and crystalline waters, where better to relax and unwind than in your very back garden? Discover the hidden treasures you didn't even know existed. Los Padres National Forest is one of nature's most heavenly hideaways, with verdant vegetation and fantastic flora; you can witness all that this majestic mountain landscape has to offer. Perhaps you want to unleash your inner adrenaline junkie? Well here in Santa Barbara you can ride the waves to your heart’s content or hike to the glorious Gaviota Peak where the heavenly hot springs will soon have you under their spell. Whatever you decide to do, make sure you choose a staycation you will never forget here in Santa Barbara. #staycation