10 Best Things to Do in Santa Barbara This Summertime

Let’s be truthful– when it pertains to unbelievable locations, Santa Barbara isn’t just another area on the map. This seaside paradise blends vineyard-dotted hills with sparkling Pacific views, where Spanish architecture fulfills California cool in best harmony. Here is our guide to the best things to do in Santa Barbara.

From red wine tasting in the Funk Zone to sunset strolls along Butterfly Beach, the best things to do in Santa Barbara deal something magical for each tourist. Whether you’re a foodie, adventurer, or just here to absorb that famous seaside ambiance, you’re about to find why this city steals hearts so easily.

(Trust us: After one day here, you’ll be searching Santa Barbara property listings. Do not say we didn’t warn you!)

Pro suggestion: Go to weekdays for fewer crowds and better hotel rates!

1. Explore the Iconic Santa Barbara County Courthouse

Why you can’t miss it: With its magnificent architecture and breath-taking panoramic views, this 1929 Spanish Colonial Revival masterpiece is the crown gem of downtown Santa Barbara.

What’s special about it:

• Admission to the structure and gardens is free.
• Views from the clock tower that extend from the Pacific Ocean to the Santa Ynez Mountains
• Sunken gardens that are ideal for leisurely strolls and photographs
• Assisted trips readily available Monday-Saturday at 10:30 am and 2pm

Expense: Completely complimentary

Best time to check out: Early morning (9am) or late afternoon for optimal lighting and less crowds

Pro suggestion: The court house typically hosts weddings on weekends, creating a lot more romantic environment.

2. Walk Down State Street & Downtown Santa Barbara Why residents love it: The dynamic center of the city is State Street, which integrates dining, home entertainment, and shopping in a pedestrian-friendly setting.

Must-do activities:

• Browsing in distinctive galleries and boutiques
• Coffee culture: come by French Press or Handlebar for your morning brew. Coffee, live music, and street entertainers all day
• Galleries showcasing both domestic and foreign artists
• Evening meals with patio areas outside that are perfect for people-watching

Parking: Street parking offered ($1.50/ hour), or utilize public lots

Strolling distance: Quickly walkable from waterside to the mission

Best for: Any ages, best for a leisurely afternoon walk

3. Discover Mission Santa Barbara– “Queen of the Missions”

This 1786 Spanish objective stands as one of California’s the majority of lovely and historically significant websites, continuing to run as an active parish.

Historical significance:

• Founded by Franciscan friars as part of the California objective system
• Spectacular twin bell towers visible throughout the city
• Museum exhibits showcasing Native American and Spanish colonial history
• Beautiful gardens with initial stone fountain and serene pathways

Visitor info:

• Cost: Adults $15, Students/Seniors $12, Children under 6 complimentary
• Hours: Daily 9am-4:30 pm
• Assisted trips: Available for additional $5
• Mass schedule: Still holds routine Catholic services

4. Experience Red Wine Country in Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Barbara County has actually become one of California’s premier white wine areas, equaling Napa Valley with its varied microclimates and acclaimed vintages.

Leading red wine tasting destinations:

• Los Olivos: Captivating town with 20+ tasting rooms within strolling range
• Santa Ynez: Historical downtown with family-owned wineries
• Funk Zone: Urban red wine district with over 20 tasting spaces

Popular varietals to attempt:

• Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the cooler seaside areas
• Rhône ranges like Syrah and Grenache from warmer inland valleys
• Sauvignon Blanc understood for crisp, mineral-driven profiles

Cost factors to consider: Tasting fees generally $15-25 per individual, typically waived with purchase

Transport: Consider employed motorists or white wine trip companies for security

Finest months: September-November for harvest season activities.

5. Relax at East Beach & Stearns The Wharf With soft sand, calm waves, and all the amenities you require just a short distance from downtown, East Beach is regularly rated as one of California’s finest urban beaches

. Activities at the beach:

• Courts for volley ball (free to use)
• Renting a bike to cruise the coast
• Seasonal leasings of kayaks and paddleboards are available.
• Beach dining establishments with views of the ocean and fresh seafood

Stearns Wharf highlights:

• Historic pier dating to 1872
• Fresh seafood dining establishments consisting of Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
• Distinct stores offering whatever from keepsakes to regional art
• Sea Center fish tank perfect for households with kids

Facilities: Restrooms, showers, lifeguards throughout summertime

Parking: Beach car park $2/hour, free street parking nearby with time limits

6. Roam Through Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Spanning 78 acres of native California plants, these gardens display the region’s extraordinary biodiversity across multiple communities.

Garden highlights:

• Over 1,000 rare and indigenous plant species
• 5.5 miles of tracks through different environment zones
• Redwood section with towering coastal giants
• Desert garden including cacti and drought-resistant plants
• Japanese Tea Garden for tranquil reflection

Practical information:

• Expense: Grownups $15, Seniors/Students $10, Children 2-12 $6
• Hours: Daily 9am-5pm (6pm throughout summer)
• Finest seasons: Spring wildflower flowers (March-May) and fall colours (October-November)
• Special events: Seasonal festivals and botanical workshops

7. Go to the Santa Barbara Zoo

Visitors can form deep bonds with more than 500 animals from 146 types at this small 30-acre zoo.

Distinctive qualities:

• A train ride that offers stunning views of the Channel Islands and the ocean
• Experiences with giraffe feeding (additional $3)
• A swimming pool and an exhibit of Asian elephants
• The California condor reproducing program aids in the healing of threatened types.
• Kids’ zoo featuring interactive animal encounters

Family-friendly centers:

• Rentable strollers are available.
• Many dining alternatives, ranging from light bites to significant meals
• Group rates and packages for birthday parties
• Annual memberships with unique advantages and limitless check outs

Expense: Grownups $20, Kid 2-12 $15, Seniors $18

Typical go to time: 3-4 hours for comprehensive exploration

8. Check Out the Hip Funk Zone As soon as an industrial warehouse district, the Funk Zone has transformed into Santa Barbara’s coolest area for art, red wine, and culture. What makes it special: 20+ white wine tasting rooms in converted storage facilities

Art galleries including modern regional artists

Craft breweries like Figueroa Mountain Developing and Telegraph Developing

Distinct stores selling classic clothing, handcrafted goods, and regional crafts

Street art and murals throughout the district

Advised stops:

• Anchor Woodfire Kitchen area for wood-fired cuisine
• Local Wine makers for natural red wines
• Industrial Eats for gourmet sandwiches and local environment
• Eureka Architecture for mid-century modern furniture

Best time to go to: Late afternoon into night when tasting rooms provide delighted hour specials

9. Take a Picturesque Drive Through Red Wine Country

With its rolling hills, vineyard views, and quaint little towns, the Santa Ynez Valley is home to a few of California’s the majority of stunning white wine country drives.

Suggested route:

• Start in Los Olivos — grab coffee and check out tasting spaces
• Drive through Ballard — historic schoolhouse and boutique wineries
• Continue to Solvang — Danish-inspired architecture and pastry shops
• End in Buellton — craft beer and farm-to-table dining

Driving factors to consider:

• Total range: Around 30 miles big salami
• Designated chauffeur important for wine tasting stops
• Picturesque stops: Various pull-offs for pictures and vineyard views
• Finest months: April-May for wildflowers, September-October for harvest

Surprise gems along the route:

• Ostrich Land — special farm experience in Buellton
• Cold Spring Pub — historical stagecoach stop with live music
• Nojoqui Falls — brief walking to seasonal waterfall

10. Enjoy Anacapa Street & Resident Neighbourhoods

Beyond downtown’s main attractions, exploring property areas reveals Santa Barbara’s authentic regional character and surprise gems.

Neighbourhood highlights:

• Upper State Street — regional cafe and neighbourhood dining establishments
• The Mesa — suburb with ocean views and regional parks
• Montecito — high end neighborhood with celeb homes and Butterfly Beach
• Hope Cattle ranch — equestrian neighborhood with riding tracks

Regional favourites:

• D’Angelo Bakery — genuine Italian pastries and sandwiches
• Mesa Café — neighbourhood breakfast spot cherished by locals
• Lazy Acres — natural grocery store with ready foods and coffee shop
• Hendry’s Beach — regional beach with less tourists and fantastic browse

Cultural experiences:

• Live music places like SOhO Restaurant & Music Club
• Farmers markets — Tuesday and Saturday downtown, Thursday on State Street
• Local art walks — first Thursday of monthly in the Arts District

Likewise Read: 15 Finest Dining Establishments in Santa Barbara — From concealed taquerias to fine dining with ocean views.

• Where to Stay in Santa Barbara High-end Accommodations El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel– Hillside high-end resort with ocean views, an acclaimed health club, and great dining (from $600/night).
• Hotel Californian — Moroccan-inspired high-end in the Funk Zone, including a rooftop swimming pool and direct beach access (from $500/night).
• 4 Seasons Resort The Biltmore — Oceanfront sophistication with a championship golf course and first-rate medical spa (from $800/night).

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Affordable Options

• Lemon Tree Inn — Affordable stay with a pool, totally free breakfast, and walkable beach gain access to (from $100/night).
• Hotel Milo Santa Barbara — Charming beachfront hotel with outside activities and seaside vibes (from $180/night).
• Riviera Beach Home — Vintage-chic lodging with modern-day amenities in a prime area (from $150/night).

Picture this: You, drinking regional red wine as the Pacific paints the sky in tones of pink, your feet kicked up in a boutique hotel or a luxe resort that feels like it was made just for you. Santa Barbara isn’t just a location, it’s an ambiance. And the only thing much better than dreaming about it? In fact being there.

So, all set to trade “one day” for “next weekend”? Hop over to CuddlyNest and snag your best stay before someone else beats you to that terrace with the ocean view. (Pro suggestion: Reserve now, thank yourself later on. Your future sun-kissed, well-rested self will high-five you.)

Go on– your California escape is waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions For Finest Things to Do in Santa Barbara

1. Is Santa Barbara walkable?

Yes! Downtown, the waterside, and the Funk Zone are easily walkable, but renting a bike or cars and truck is best for checking out white wine country or farther beaches.

2. What’s the very best season to visit?

Spring (March– Might) and fall (September– November) offer ideal weather condition, fewer crowds, and lower rates– plus wildflowers or harvest celebrations!

3. Are there any complimentary things to do in Santa Barbara?

Absolutely: hike the Douglas Maintain for ocean views, explore the courthouse, stroll Stearns Wharf, or unwind at Arroyo Burro Beach.

4. How far is Santa Barbara from Los Angeles?

About 90 miles (1.5– 2 hours by automobile), making it an easy coastal road trip or Amtrak train trip (with spectacular views!).

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