Santa Barbara Through Sharapova's Lens: Tennis Star's Insider Tips for California's 'American Riviera'
Santa Barbara Through Sharapova's Lens: Tennis Star's Insider Tips for California's 'American Riviera' - Sharapova's Favorite Restaurants in Santa Barbara
When tennis icon Maria Sharapova visits her home-away-from-home in picturesque Santa Barbara, dining out tops her itinerary. With a rich culinary scene spanning casual cafes to upscale eateries, Sharapova enjoys the best of California cuisine during her stays in the 'American Riviera'.
According to Sharapova, a stop at Mesa Verde on upper State Street is a must for locally-sourced ingredients and California coastal flavors. She recommends starting with the Fire Roasted Artichoke, featuring tender petals charred over an open flame and served with roasted garlic aioli. For the main course, Sharapova favors the Grilled Local Swordfish with ancho chile butter and roasted fingerling potatoes. And she never misses out on Mesa Verde's melt-in-your-mouth Chocolate Pot de Crème, an indulgent yet "totally worth it" way to end the meal.
When craving Italian, Sharapova heads to Olio Pizzeria in the Funk Zone. She loves sitting outdoors to soak up Santa Barbara's sunny weather as she dines on wood-fired pizzas with creatively topped, blistered crusts. The Napoletana with san marzano tomatoes, basil, and creamy mozzarella is her go-to pie. Sharapova pairs it with the Burrata Salad dressed in lemon and olive oil. And she insists you save room for the Nutella Pizza Dessert featuring hazelnut spread, strawberries, and whipped cream.
For authentic Mexican food and potent margaritas, Sharapova makes reservations at Los Agaves. She starts with the Ceviche Trio featuring snapper, shrimp and scallops marinated in lime juice and tossed with fresh veggies and avocado. Her favorite dish is the Pollo Asado, a wood-grilled chicken breast served with mole poblano sauce, rice, beans and handmade tortillas. Sharapova likes to pair this hearty entree with a blood orange margarita or a fruity mango mojito.
When Sharapova craves the flavors of Asia, she heads to noodle bar Sama Sama Kitchen. She recommends the shrimp and pork Potstickers with spicy sesame oil and the Pad Thai, calling the signature noodle dish perfectly balanced. For a lighter option, Sharapova orders the Green Papaya Salad with shredded papaya, carrots, peanuts and a tangy lime dressing. And she always indulges in Masaman Curry, rich in warming spices and loaded with beef, potatoes, peanuts and coconut milk.
Santa Barbara Through Sharapova's Lens: Tennis Star's Insider Tips for California's 'American Riviera' - Exploring Funk Zone, the Trendy Arts District
Nestled between the beach and historic downtown, Funk Zone has emerged in recent years as Santa Barbara's trendy arts and tasting room district. With its converted warehouses housing hip galleries, urban wineries, craft breweries and eateries, this eclectic neighborhood has become a can't-miss destination according to Sharapova.
"Funk Zone is such a vibrant area with amazing art, food and drink all converging together," says Sharapova. "It's the perfect place to wander on foot and discover something new around every corner."
One essential stop is the Santa Barbara Wine Collective, where you can sample wines from multiple area vintners all under one roof. Sharapova recommends trying the complex Pinot Noirs and mineral-driven Chardonnays, noting "I love tasting how the microclimates influence each vineyard's unique flavor profiles."
For local craft beer, head to Brass Bear Brewing or Third Window Brewing, where inventive brews range from blood orange lagers to coffee-infused stouts. "You can tell how much passion goes into every pint," Sharapova says. "Their taprooms have a laidback, welcoming vibe whether you're a beer geek or new to craft brews."
To experience Funk Zone's artistic side, Sharapova suggests wandering through the waterfront COAL Art Gallery, home to open-air exhibitions, multicultural dance shows and live painting sessions. For provocative installations using natural materials, check out Distinctive Assets Tribal Gallery. Sharapova says, "I love how you never know what you'll encounter when walking through Funk Zone's galleries - it's always fresh and surprising."
When hunger strikes, Sharapova has two go-to spots. "Lucky Penny is the ultimate pizza and pinot noir pairings, with neapolitan-style pies baked in a wood-fired oven to perfection." For shared plates and natural wines, she recommends Loquita, calling it "Spanish-inspired flavors taken up a notch, with an awesome patio for people-watching."
Santa Barbara Through Sharapova's Lens: Tennis Star's Insider Tips for California's 'American Riviera' - Hitting the Courts at Sharapova's Go-To Tennis Club
As a top professional tennis player, Maria Sharapova relies on quality facilities to hone her world-class skills whenever she visits Santa Barbara. Her go-to spot is the storied Santa Barbara Tennis Club, conveniently located right beside East Beach.
With 23 meticulously maintained hard and clay courts, this member-owned club has been a tennis mainstay since 1965. While known for its social vibe and recreational play, it also attracts dedicated competitors like Sharapova.
She loves the variety of court surfaces that let her practice different styles of play. The Plexipave acrylic hard courts are fast-paced and perfectly suited to Sharapova’s aggressive baseline technique. For working on topspin and control, she moves to the signature clay courts made from green Har-Tru material that mimics playing on Roland Garros’ famous red surface.
Fellow members enjoy bumping into the tennis icon as she trains. “It’s incredible watching Sharapova practice up close,” says Lisa Greene, a longtime club member. “Seeing her flawless footwork, grunting loudly on each shot, it’s like you’re at a pro match!”
While the club has a relaxed, welcoming vibe, the staff ensures Sharapova and all members have an optimal experience. She values the meticulous court grooming, with attendants watering and sweeping throughout the day.
Beyond the courts, Sharapova unwinds in the Mediterranean-style clubhouse featuring an open-air bar overlooking the ocean. Members rave about the lively scene during clinic mixers and special events like Wimbledon viewing parties.
Santa Barbara Through Sharapova's Lens: Tennis Star's Insider Tips for California's 'American Riviera' - Beach Life: Sharapova's Tips for State Street and Shoreline Park
As a sun-loving SoCal native, Sharapova makes the most of Santa Barbara's idyllic beaches whenever she's in town. She shares insider tips for enjoying the sand and surf along lively State Street and peaceful Shoreline Park.
According to Sharapova, no visit to Santa Barbara is complete without strolling down State Street to the open expanse of glistening coast beside Stearns Wharf. "State Street gives you that quintessential California beach scene with surf shops, snack stands and the ocean breeze in your hair," she says.
Start your outing with breakfast at The Breakwater Restaurant right on the beach, where Sharapova enjoys lobster omelets and bottomless mimosas on the patio. Then rent a beach cruiser bike from Wheel Fun Rentals and leisurely pedal down the waterfront to the iconic 1872 wharf.
At the ocean's edge, Sharapova suggests trying stand up paddle boarding - her favorite way to work up a sweat with gorgeous views. "Paddling along the coastline, you get a whole new appreciation for Santa Barbara's beauty," she raves.
When you work up an appetite, grab clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl from the concession stands and find a place to picnic on the sand. Sharapova's pro-tip is to arrive early to snag a table on the wharf's scenic observation deck.
In the late afternoon, head to Enterprise Fish Company for Sharapova's must-try trifecta: poke nachos, lobster tacos and a thirst-quenching mango margarita. Grab a window seat facing the beach to watch the sunset over the ocean.
For more seclusion, Sharapova loves escaping to Shoreline Park just west of Santa Barbara's bustling downtown. She calls this serene beach "a peaceful paradise" where you'll find locals surfing, doing yoga or just relaxing on the sand.
Start off meandering along the cliffside bluff trail dotted with palm trees for postcard-perfect views of the mountains mingling with the sea. At mile marker 1.5, a secret staircase leads down to a small hidden cove that Sharapova calls "heavenly for sunbathing and swimming."
Further ahead, you'll reach the expansive Shoreline main beach where Sharapova likes to try her hand at surfing the gentle swells. "The vibe here is so welcoming," she says. "Experienced locals are always happy to give pointers to newcomers."
Santa Barbara Through Sharapova's Lens: Tennis Star's Insider Tips for California's 'American Riviera' - Wine Tasting Adventures in Santa Barbara's Valley
When Sharapova needs an escape from the sun and surf, she heads to the rolling vineyards of Santa Barbara’s wine country. Here, over 100 wineries craft world-class Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah, with unique terroir lending distinct flavor profiles to each sub-appellation.
According to Sharapova, the best way to experience this booming wine region is via a tour from Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours. She loves how these small group excursions take you behind the scenes while an expert guide handles the transportation between wineries.
Popular itineraries include Foxen Canyon – Firestone Vineyards tasting the Syrah that made Santa Ynez Valley famous. Sharapova says, “You’ll taste single-vineyard Pinot Noir at Foxen that captures the valley's complex terroir in each sip.” The tour then continues to Firestone Vineyard’s expansive property, where vineyard manager Danielle Cyrot gives in-depth lectures while pouring Chardonnay aged in French oak barrels.
For a funkier scene, Sharapova books the Urban Wine Trail starting in downtown Santa Barbara then heading to the warehouses of Funk Zone. Sharapova raves, “You get a fun mix of urban winery tastings alongside delicious pairings like Mexican tapas, wood-fired pizza and artisan cheese plates.”
You can also curate a fully customized tour, as Somers C. did on her bachelorette trip. She told her guide about the group’s love for thoroughbreds, prompting stops at Rancho Sisquoc Winery near legendary horse boarding facility. At Bridlewood Winery, the group blended their own personal wine bottles while sipping on velvety Malbec. Somers said the experience “perfectly captured our passions while reveling in Santa Barbara’s gorgeous wine country.”
Sharapova stresses the importance of having an expert guide not just for transportation logistics, but also educational insights that make your tasting experience memorable. Her guide Damien B. points out subtle characteristics that even seasoned oenophiles miss, like the stone fruit finish of Babcock Vineyard’s Pinot Noir. “His deep knowledge of the region's winemaking history brought each winery visit to life,” Sharapova says.
Beyond vineyards, these tours build in opportunities to savor locally sourced cheese and charcuterie, browse galleries, or take in scenes from the hit movie “Sideways”. You can even add on a gourmet picnic lunch from Santa Barbara’s beloved Los Olivos Cafe & Wine Merchant.
Santa Barbara Through Sharapova's Lens: Tennis Star's Insider Tips for California's 'American Riviera' - Art and History at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Beyond sun and surf, Santa Barbara’s cultural side shines at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, where Sharapova loses herself in the galleries spanning ancient to contemporary works. She calls it “an art-lover’s paradise” with inspiring exhibits and tranquil sculpture gardens.
Founded in 1941, this downtown gem houses an impressive permanent collection from Monet, Modigliani, Warhol and other luminaries. But equally intriguing are the temporary shows spotlighting underrepresented groups. When Asian-American artists took center stage in Origins, Sharapova was impressed by the provocative works exploring identity and marginalization. “It was eye-opening,” she says. “I left feeling enlightened and eager to learn more.”
Beyond showcasing diversity, the museum directly aids the artistic community. During the pandemic, the museum bought works from over 100 regional artists struggling due to shuttered galleries. Sharapova loved seeing Santa Barbara creativity displayed in the Local Art Saved show. “It feels good knowing your visit supports artists,” she says.
For many, the museum’s scenic setting is part of the draw. Adjacent to lush, oak-filled Franceschi Park, the tranquil Asian-inspired gardens display monumental sculptures from renowned artists like Masami Teraoka. Visitors speak of the serenity found admiring installations tucked into quiet bamboo groves. Dave F. calls it “art therapy without the stuffy galleries.”
Inside, a series of airy pavilions highlight an intriguing juxtaposition of classical and contemporary pieces. In one room, 19th century European masters give way to modern Latin American abstractionists, illustrating the universal desire for meaning and beauty. For Sharapova, experiencing these global connections makes art history come alive. She sums up her visits saying, “I always leave with a greater sense of imagination, perspective and possibility.”
Santa Barbara Through Sharapova's Lens: Tennis Star's Insider Tips for California's 'American Riviera' - Shopping Hot Spots According to Sharapova
Beyond beaches and vineyards, Santa Barbara offers world-class boutique shopping, whether you seek trendy labels or handcrafted treasures. According to Sharapova, areas like Downtown's State Street and Montecito's Coast Village Road offer retail therapy at its finest.
State Street's DNA traces back to the late 1800s, when townsfolk would visit its lively mercantile shops via horse-drawn trolleys. Today it retains an old-timey charm, with terra cotta roofs and flower boxes flanking vibrant boutiques. Along this bustling thoroughfare, Sharapova indulges in leisurely strolls, popping into art galleries like Distinctive Decor and whimsical stores like Whistle Club selling jewelry shaped like birds.
At local favorite jeans shop Paper Crown, she unearths rare denim crafted from Peruvian and Turkish cottons. "It's my go-to for premium jeans with out-of-the-box washes and cuts you won't find elsewhere," Sharapova says. For on-trend footwear, she heads to Footcandy Shoes to score strappy sandals to complete her State Street looks.
During holiday seasons, Sharapova celebrates at State Street's seasonal markets, full of local artisans and tasty treats. She says, "Ambling past the twinkling lights and festive music, naughty or nice, you'll find gifts for everyone on your list."
Just a 15-minute drive up the coast, the ritzy community of Montecito appeals to Sharapova's love of luxe. At high-end boutiques like Wendy Foster and J McLaughlin, she curates her glamorous off-court wardrobe. "With its tony reputation, Montecito offers a quintessential Rodeo Drive experience in a charming village setting," Sharapova says.
Coast Village Road also houses whimsical local stores, like Pierre Lafond Market & Deli, packed floor-to-ceiling with gourmet foods and gifts. Those seeking one-of-a-kind finds head to Suite Alice, where Sharapova uncovers artisan jewelry and naturally dyed tunics. Owner Alice says, "We love helping visitors discover our favorite Santa Barbara artists and designers."
Santa Barbara Through Sharapova's Lens: Tennis Star's Insider Tips for California's 'American Riviera' - Outdoor Activities in Santa Barbara's Nature Preserves
Beyond beaches and boutiques, Santa Barbara offers a wealth of outdoor adventure in its breathtaking nature preserves and parks. Sharapova loves disconnecting from distractions and getting her adrenaline pumping on scenic trails and coastal tours. According to the tennis icon, you can't fully experience the 'American Riviera' without spending time immersed in its natural splendor.
In Gaviota State Park, over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails tempt visitors. Tucked between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, seclusion and sweeping vistas await. Sharapova recommends the rewarding 7-mile roundtrip trek to Cañada del Leon. She says, "It starts out meandering through oak groves then opens up to panoramic ocean views that will give you chills." Visitors often spot migratory whales offshore during winter months.
Just offshore, kayak tours with Santa Barbara Adventure Company let you immerse in the Gaviota coastline's rugged beauty. Sharapova loves paddling into sea caves and spotting otters, seals and shorebirds. She'll even jump into the water for snorkeling, saying "Seeing vibrant anemones and garibaldi underwater is magical!"
In the Santa Ynez Mountains, Los Padres National Forest spans nearly 2,000 square miles of rugged wilderness. Sharapova trades her tennis shoes for hiking boots to traverse trails past cascading waterfalls, grassy meadows and the iconic Seven Falls. She says, "With over 240 miles of trails, I discover new vistas on each visit."
In the southern Los Padres, Sharapova's favorite hike is the 5-mile roundtrip trek to Romero Canyon's Blue Canyon Falls. She says, "It follows a year-round creek with swimming holes perfect for cooling off." After heavy winter rains, the falls come alive, rewarding hikers like Sara G. who said, "Seeing that roaring waterfall against the canyon's lush greenery was so invigorating!"
On the urban fringe, Arroyo Burro County Beach lets you reconnect with nature minutes from downtown. The 60-acre Douglas Family Preserve offers an easy 2-mile cliff trail overlooking a secluded beach nicknamed 'Hendry's.' At low tide, Sharapova explores tide pools teeming with purple sea urchins, orange Garibaldi fish and swaying anemones. She calls Hendry's the ideal spot to detox from digital distractions with relaxing ocean sounds and fresh salty air.
No matter your pursuit, Sharapova stresses respecting the environment by staying on trails, packing out trash and avoiding wildlife disturbances. As Wendy K. learned, "Getting back to nature in Santa Barbara instantly recharges your spirit, but it requires honoring these special places."