Soak Up the Sun in Santa Barbara: A Local's Guide to the 'American Riviera'

Soak Up the Sun in Santa Barbara: A Local's Guide to the 'American Riviera' - Hit the Beach

With over 20 miles of stunning coastline, it's no wonder the beach is a top attraction for visitors to Santa Barbara. Whether you're looking to surf, sunbathe, or simply stroll along the shore, the American Riviera has plenty of sandy shores to explore.

One of the most popular beaches is East Beach, located along Cabrillo Boulevard near the Santa Barbara Zoo. Its convenient location and amenities like picnic tables, volleyball courts, and a children's play area make East Beach a family-friendly destination. Walk out on the wide wooden pier for excellent views. Keep an eye out for dolphins frolicking in the surf!

Further up the coast, Leadbetter Beach offers a more peaceful setting. Dip your toes in the calm waters or stretch out on the sand to relax. Arroyo Burro Beach (or "Hendry's Beach" to locals) is known for its prime surfing. Rent a board and wetsuit or take a lesson if you're new to the sport. And don't forget to snap a photo next to the iconic rainbow lifeguard tower!

If you're craving seclusion, look no further than El Capitán State Beach. Accessible only by a steep cliffside staircase, this hidden cove feels worlds away from the bustle of downtown. Come at low tide to explore the network of caves and tunnels carved into the sandstone. Picnic under the shade of a sycamore tree and savor the sounds of the Pacific.

Santa Barbara also boasts some of California's most spectacular coastal hiking. Hike out to the historic Stearns Wharf or climb the steps to Shoreline Park for panoramic ocean vistas. For an easy hike perfect for sunset, head to Douglas Family Preserve in the funky Mesa neighborhood. Meander past scenic lookouts, then relax on a bench while the sun dips into the sea.

Wherever your Santa Barbara beach adventure takes you, don't forget to stay safe. Swim only when lifeguards are on duty and never turn your back to the ocean. Check tide charts and weather forecasts before setting out. And of course, slather on that sunscreen to protect your skin.

Soak Up the Sun in Santa Barbara: A Local's Guide to the 'American Riviera' - Shop 'Til You Drop on State Street

With its vibrant mix of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, State Street serves as the lively main drag of downtown Santa Barbara. This bustling thoroughfare invites visitors to shop 'til they drop while soaking up the sights and sounds of the city.

Eclectic local businesses line the street, tempting passersby with eye-catching window displays. Pop into Funatico for whimsical toys, masks, and games from around the world. The aromatic Wonderland Gallery carries incense, soaps, candles, and metaphysical curios. Find boho fashions and accessories at The Blue Tangerine, while The Closet Trading Co. stocks chic consignment pieces.

Several blocks contain dense concentrations of upscale national retailers, like Anthropologie, Madewell, and Free People. Hunt for designer deals at Nordstrom Rack or explore two levels of premium brands at the Paseo Nuevo mall. Satisfy your sweet tooth with creamy gelato from Gelateria Paradiso or artisanal fudge from Sugar Blossom Sweets.

With both big chains and mom-and-pop shops, State Street provides a little something for every taste and budget. Part of the fun is simply strolling down the street and popping into whatever boutiques catch your eye. Chat with the passionate small business owners about their wares. There's always a new discovery to be made.

Art aficionados will want to spend time browsing the respected galleries clustered in the 1300 and 1500 blocks. Sullivan Goss displays revered California impressionists like William Wendt, while GraySpace showcases contemporary works across mediums. Make time to admire the elaborate Chumash beadwork at Lisa Weyer Gallery.

Consider timing your visit around the Thursday night farmers' market at the 1300 block. As you nibble on empanadas and boba tea, peruse stalls selling fresh produce and artisanal products. Local bands provide a lively ambiance.

State Street offers over a mile of retail therapy – leave time to take breaks at sidewalk cafes along the way. Sip an iced mocha while people watching from a patio seat at Handlebar Coffee Roasters. Refuel with woodfired Neapolitan pizza and a glass of Sangiovese at Via Maestra 42.

Soak Up the Sun in Santa Barbara: A Local's Guide to the 'American Riviera' - Wine Taste Your Way Through the Santa Ynez Valley

Just a 30-minute drive from Santa Barbara unfolds the Santa Ynez Valley, a wine lover's paradise dotted with vineyards and tasting rooms. From prestigious estates to cozy family wineries, options for oenophiles abound. Spend an afternoon or two touring this emerging wine region's highlights.

Kick things off at the sprawling Firestone Vineyard. Their idyllic property offers wine flights on the patio or seated tastings in a rustic lodge. With over 50 wines to sample, you’re bound to discover some new favorites like their lush Syrah Reserve or vibrant Rosé. “We had an amazing experience tasting a wide variety of fantastic wines,” shares Lea H. “Our pourer was so knowledgeable about the wines and the history of the winery.”

Next, head to Kalyra Winery and hike the short trail up to their secluded barrel room tasting. Take in vistas of the vines while sipping Viognier and Red Blends directly from French oak. Evan O. describes it as “a little slice of wine tasting paradise.” For a dose of luxury, don't miss the ultra-premium offerings at Mattei’s Tavern. Their 19th century stagecoach stop turned tasting room combines history with sophisticated small-batch wines.

Led by passionate winemakers, smaller boutique wineries also thrive in the region. Taste Rhône-style blends at Stolpman Vineyards and learn about their focus on organic farming. The cozy brick tasting room at Flying Goat Cellars provides a relaxed, dog-friendly space to sample their highly-rated Pinot Noirs. “It was the best winery experience we had in the area,” says Mike D. “Intimate yet lively, with incredibly friendly staff.”

Wherever your wine tasting adventures take you, be sure to also spend time appreciating the natural beauty surrounding you. “The view of the vineyards with the mountains in the background is just breathtaking,” shares Alicia C. “It’s so peaceful to sit outside with a glass of wine and take it all in.” From lush vineyards to oak-studded hills, the landscapes of the Santa Ynez Valley prove just as captivating as the wines themselves.

Soak Up the Sun in Santa Barbara: A Local's Guide to the 'American Riviera' - Explore the Funky Town of Los Olivos

Nestled among the oak trees and vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley lies the charming town of Los Olivos. Known for its laidback vibe, trendy boutiques, and renowned tasting rooms, Los Olivos offers a funkier, more relaxed wine country experience compared to its genteel neighbor, Santa Ynez.

Wander down Grand Avenue to discover the town's independent spirit. "Los Olivos is full of great little shops showcasing all kinds of handmade crafts, art, clothing, and gourmet foods," shares Jess B. "It has a wonderful communal feel." Browse antiques stores like J. Woeste and Gallery Los Olivos, filled with fine art, jewelry, and sculptures. The ever-changing merchandise at one-of-a-kind emporium Agypsy's Gypsy offers surprises around every corner.

Los Olivos serves as an excellent home base for exploring the region's wineries. Over two dozen tasting rooms line Grand Avenue and side streets, many pouring wines produced on nearby estates. According to Leah R., "you can easily visit 3-4 great wineries without ever getting in your car!" Standouts include standing in line at trendy Sanger Family Wines for their small-batch Cabs and Rhône blends. The warm, Arts and Crafts-inspired space at Carhartt Vineyard Tasting Room provides a relaxing oenophile's oasis. And don't miss a food-friendly tasting flight at Saarloos + Sons, known for their "killer Cab Franc" and relaxed, welcoming vibe.

Of course, no visit to Los Olivos is complete without an obligatory stop at its most famous tasting room, Fess Parker Wine Country Inn & Spa. The former home of actor Fess Parker, best known for playing Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone on TV, today Fess Parker welcomes guests to an expansive tasting bar serving lauded Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. Photos and memorabilia honor its late celebrity owner.

Art and wine merge at galleries like Circle Bar B Guest Ranch & Gallery. Sip award-winning Syrahs on their garden patio, then browse contemporary landscape paintings inside. Many tasting rooms host live music on weekends or food pop-ups from local chefs, adding to the festive ambiance.

Soak Up the Sun in Santa Barbara: A Local's Guide to the 'American Riviera' - Channel Your Inner Cowboy in Solvang

Step back in time to the Old West in Solvang, an idyllic village nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley. This Danish-inspired town transports visitors to a bygone era through its charming western facades and cowboy culture. Saddle up and get ready for some rootin’ tootin’ fun!

At the epicenter of Solvang’s frontier spirit is Stagecoach Rides at Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort. Climb aboard a stagecoach driven by an expert cowboy in full regalia and experience what it was like to ride through the valley generations ago. Your knowledgeable guide shares tales of the Chumash tribe, Spanish missionaries, and pioneer homesteaders who inhabited the land long before Solvang’s founding in 1911. With the wind in your hair and leisurely clip-clop rhythm beneath you, the hour-long adventure evokes a sense of traveling back in time. “It’s like being part of an old Western movie!” raves Karen J.

After your stagecoach ride, mosey your way to wine tasting at Lucas & Lewellen or KRAZy Country Ranch Winery. Sip Santa Ynez Valley vintages on rustic outdoor patios straight out of the Old West. Lucas & Lewellen’s cozy tasting room even resembles an old-fashioned general store and saloon. “The wine was fantastic and the western vibes made it so much fun,” shares Alicia G. KRAZy Country Ranch fully leans into the cowboy theme with bull skulls, wagon wheels and cowhide prints. Their wines honor owners named Roy and Dale along with tributes to “The Good” and “The Bad.” Quirky touches like cowboy boot glass charms provide whimsical souvenirs of your tasting experience.

For a rollicking good time, make tracks to The Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville. This beloved theater company puts on hilarious shows chock full of rootin’ tootin’ humor and hijinks. Favorites like Pecos Bill or The Dastardly Doctor Doolittle often feature gun-slinging heroes saving the damsel in distress. Patrons can even boo the villain and cheer the good guy for an interactive theater experience. Arrive early to enjoy a vaudeville revue with can-can dancers and sing-alongs like “Red River Valley” setting the mood. “Such a fun, family-friendly show that really made me feel like I was at an old-fashioned Wild West theater,” raves Brittany T.

Solvang’s Danish-meets-American West aesthetic also shines through in great shopping and dining. Find cowboy hats, boots and novelty old-timey photos at Emmy’s Country Cupboard. The adorable souvenir shop Madeline’s carries mini melodrama ticket blankets and “Wanted” paper doll cut-outs. Belly up to the bar at The Hitching Post to devour oak-grilled steaks, BBQ ribs, and Santa Maria-style ‘cue. Their cozy digs reminiscent of an old saloon enhance the frontier flair. Then satisfy your sweet tooth with bumpy cake and æbleskiver pancakes worthy of any Western chuck wagon cookout.

Soak Up the Sun in Santa Barbara: A Local's Guide to the 'American Riviera' - Get Artsy at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art

Founded in 1941, SBMA resides in an imposing Spanish Colonial Revival building whose white stucco walls and red-tiled domed tower are striking against the blue California sky. Designed by prominent Santa Barbara architect Lutah Maria Riggs, the graceful arches, fountains, and intimate courtyards create a soothing oasis for art lovers.

The thoughtfully curated collection boasts over 27,000 works emphasizing American, Asian, and Latin American artists. Strengths include particularly robust holdings in photographs and California modernists. Expect to encounter both beloved familiar names and exciting new discoveries.

“They have an impressive collection of American greats like Georgia O’Keeffe along with gems by lesser-known but equally talented artists,” notes Sara P. Highlights include serene landscapes by early Santa Barbara painters, brilliant abstraction by Arshile Gorky, and provocative pop art by Ed Ruscha. Don’t miss seeing Jackson Pollock’s explosive masterpiece “Greyed Rainbow” in person.

Aficionados of Asian art relish floating through the tranquil Asian galleries housing Edo screens, Buddhist sculptures, and Chinese jades. The lacquered chests and painted scrolls provide transporting glimpses into various Asian aesthetic traditions.

Photography enthusiasts flock to admire works by modern masters like Alfred Stieglitz, Ansel Adams, and Henri Cartier-Bresson. SBMA boasts one of the nation’s best collections of 19th century photography, capturing slice-of-life scenes of early Santa Barbara.

Throughout the year, SBMA hosts outstanding temporary exhibitions that dive deep into themes and artists. Recent compelling shows have included contemporary abstractions inspired by music and an extensive showcase of Frank Stella’s boundary-pushing career.

Lovely outdoor spaces like the oak-shaded Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center patio invite lingering. Grab lunch at the atmospheric Museum Cafe or coffee and homemade pastries at the charming Gallery Store. Don’t miss the rotating exhibits at the interactive Family Resource Center, complete with hands-on art stations perfect for kids.

From cutting-edge contemporary pieces to impressionist masterworks, the diversity and depth of SBMA’s collection inspires. Wander through galleries filled with color, creativity, and cultural treasures from around the world.

Soak Up the Sun in Santa Barbara: A Local's Guide to the 'American Riviera' - Go for a Scenic Drive Along the Coast

Pack up the car and get ready to cruise along the spectacular Santa Barbara coastline. Adventurous road trips overlooking dazzling Pacific Ocean vistas await. Driving the winding cliffside roads takes you to secluded beaches, photogenic lighthouses, and vista points with jaw-dropping sea views. Feel like you’ve stepped into movie magic while gazing out at the Channel Islands in the distance.

One of the prettiest drives follows Cabrillo Boulevard, also known as Shoreline Drive, between downtown and Santa Barbara’s harbor. You’ll trace the iconic coast all the way to Leadbetter Beach. Stop to snap selfies with the brightly painted “Santa Barbara Lifeguard Headquarters” sign or let the kids burn off steam at Chase Palm Park playground.

Further west, the small seaside hamlet of Hope Ranch boasts panoramic ocean outlooks. Meander down Las Armas Road to check out some of Santa Barbara’s most enviable multimillion-dollar real estate. Then breathe deep at Mesa Lane Beach, where trails lead through a coastal nature preserve. “It’s one of the best places to watch the sunset over the water,” shares James K.

For peaceful ocean scenery, head up windy Shoreline Drive above Butterfly Beach. Take in sweeping views of the Channel Islands and Santa Cruz Island before descending to Hammond's Beach for tidepooling. Nearby Miramar Beach boasts a huge tree perfect for posing beneath. Or kick back at Lookout Park to enjoy the sea breezes.

Continue driving along Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara’s gorgeous “Millionaire’s Row” lined with historic mansions and palm trees. At the very end lies the imposing Spanish-style Bellosguardo mansion, which belonged to wealthy heiress and philanthropist Anna Clark. Pause to admire the regal architecture and terraced gardens.

Just beyond Bellosguardo lies East Beach, home to Stearns Wharf and the breakwater jetty. Park and stroll out along the pier, which stretches 2,300 feet into shimmering blue waters. Watch seasoned anglers reel in their catch or simply savor seafood tacos at harbor restaurants.

Soak Up the Sun in Santa Barbara: A Local's Guide to the 'American Riviera' - Indulge in the Farm-to-Table Scene

With its year-round growing season and abundance of fresh, local ingredients, it’s no wonder Santa Barbara has emerged as a leading farm-to-table destination. From oceanside brunches to Michelin-starred feasts, you’ll discover menus proudly featuring hyper-regional flavors.

For the ultimate farm-to-table experience, snag a coveted reservation at celebrated institution The Lark. Housed in a historic adobe building along the harbor, The Lark sources from an on-site garden and over 50 local partners. Nibble housemade bread with churned butter before diving into standout dishes like charred octopus salad with strawberries and fennel. Sean P. raves “Every single bite felt like an explosion of flavor.”

At cozy Loquita, kick back on the festive open-air patio for Spanish-inspired small plates. Their impressive menu spans salty Manzanilla olives, jamón sliced to order, and market fish crudo. Pair with Spanish wines or locally-brewed beers. “The vibe is so fun and the food is incredible,” says Brooke T. “We tried a little of everything and loved it all.”

For fine dining with an oceanside setting, book a window table at Bouchon. Located in the historic Montecito Inn, Bouchon serves elegant classics like caviar, escargot, and bouillabaisse - all accented with veggies and herbs from their garden. “Watching the sunset while enjoying one of the best meals of my life was a real Santa Barbara highlight,” recalls Karen C.

Not to be missed are chef-driven breakfasts, where farm eggs and avocados star. Crowd-pleasing favorites include crispy fried chicken and waffles at Jeannine’s and flaky croissant breakfast sandwiches at Renaud’s Bistro & Patisserie. A local must? The decadent “Keep It Simple” French toast layered with lemon curd, berries, and whipped cream at Tupelo Junction Cafe.

Ever dreamed of dining at an iconic coastal ranch? Hit The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch, where garden greens and herbs elevate tastings of seasonal California cuisine. Request a patio table with sublime mountain views. “Eating here felt like such a special experience,” says Michelle S. “Everything was so beautifully presented.”

For cheaper eats in casual, outdoor settings, check out funky Lilac Patisserie dishing droolworthy breakfast tacos on homemade tortillas or The Shop Cafe’s organic bowls and burgers. Don’t skip dessert! Handcrafted ice cream from McConnell’s uses local dairy and produce like Fuyu persimmons and wild sage honey.

Santa Barbara also hosts several can’t-miss events for indulging in the city’s bounty. Every Saturday, the Santa Barbara Farmers Market fills several downtown blocks with just-picked produce, juices, baked goods, and flowers. On summer Thursdays, booths expand onto State Street for the bustling State Street Farmers Market.