Arroyo Burro Beach
Known affectionately as the American Riviera, the Santa Barbara area became a popular vacation destination in the 1920s when Hollywood stars descended on the picturesque Mediterranean-style city. Incredible beaches, hiking trails, hotels, restaurants and boutiques are just a few reasons this little slice of heaven— just 1.5 hours from L.A.—continues to charm everyone who encounters it.
Perched high on a hill overlooking the Pacific, this carefully curated, beautifully designed destination famously served as the honeymoon destination for John and Jackie Kennedy. The lush property—filled with spectacular gardens, beautifully appointed cottages and a soothing spa—boasts award-winning restaurants and wine programming.
East Coast-style design and a prime beachfront location—plus an array of incredible restaurants—draw a discerning crowd, from celebrities to those in-the-know, to this classic property in Montecito. Sense, A Rosewood Spa, a goop boutique and multiple pools add to the allure.
Boasting stellar views of the Pacific and the city below, this chic, historic hotel exudes a sense of peaceful calm on its verdant grounds. Accommodations decked out in Spanish Mediterranean-meets-California Craftsman decor—found on paths woven across the beautiful property— range from well-appointed rooms to airy villas. On-property must-dos include pool time—the ocean view is one for the books—plus time at the spa and meals on the restaurant’s open patio. Throughout the year, watch for special wellness programming, like sound baths.
Located in the heart of the historic Presidio neighborhood, with plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance, Palihouse is the perfect home-away-from-home in downtown Santa Barbara. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the public spaces have a just-right charm.
This charming French patisserie offers equally delicious and intricate pastries, along with brunch and lunch classics with a twist. Make sure to save room for something sweet.
Head to this popular steakhouse on Coast Village Road in Montecito for classic steakhouse fare with a side of celebrity: Locals Oprah Winfrey, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were famously spotted at the hot spot before their now-notorious interview went live.
Located just off State St., the Santa Barbara Public Market is the perfect place to grab a daytime bite between taking in the downtown sites. There are plenty of mouthwatering vendors to choose from, including Mexican food favorite Corazon Cucina and Empty Bowl, which serves outstanding fresh Asian cuisine.
This Italian lunch and dinner favorite at the Montecito Country Mart is known for its incredible pizza, made from hand-pulled dough and topped with farm-fresh local ingredients. Fresh plates of pasta at dinner and a thoughtful wine and cocktail list make this a go-to spot.
Located in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, Loquita restaurant is popular with visitors and locals alike.
This lively section of Santa Barbara contains many tasting rooms, restaurants and shops. The best part? It’s just steps away from the beach. Don’t miss local favorite Spanish restaurant Loquita, which has one of the city’s most romantic patios.
Located in the leafy Presidio neighborhood, this small-but-mighty boutique showcases a cool, curated mix of clothing, jewelry and fragrances. Expect to find pieces by Issey Miyaki, Alex Mill, Marni, Veja and more. There’s also a unique kids’ clothing selection and a men’s shop around the corner.
Bohemian chic pieces by Isabel Marant Etoile and Mirth hang beside cool-girl basics by labels like Jesse Kamm and Anine Bing at this Santa Barbara staple. And that’s not all. Just steps away are Diani Shoes and Diani Living, ensuring every aspect of your person and home is beautifully adorned.
Visiting this three-level destination for vintage furniture, decor and clothing is enchanting enough to be an all-afternoon activity. You’ll want to bring everything home, from the one-of-a-kind art pieces to the rare midcentury furniture finds.
Boutiques like Doen, Clare V and James Perse live at the popular neighborhood destination, as do sips from Caffe Luxx and bites from Bettina, Panino and Rori’s Artisinal Creamery.
Montecito’s picturesque main drag contains delightful boutiques, including Maison K., Whistle Shop and Lily. There are also a number of fabulous cafes and restaurants. Don’t miss Sushi | Bar Montecito, Tres Lune, Los Arroyos and Honor Bar, which has the best burger in town.
Dog lovers rejoice! This Santa Barbara spot—also known as Hendry’s Beach—is a perfect place to bring Fido due to the long, winding shoreline and surrounding natural bluffs. Families will also appreciate the beach’s mild surf and location close to local parks.
A local favorite due to its pristine shoreline, Butterfly Beach in Montecito attracts anyone looking to soak up the sun, surf, kayak, paddleboard and more. The beach’s east-west orientation provides glorious sunrises and sunsets. Note that there are no public facilities, but Coast Village Road—filled with numerous restaurants and shops— is a short five-minute walk away.
Set your GPS to 1217 E. Mountain Drive, Montecito, to find this hidden gem. There you’ll find a moderately difficult 4-mile round trip hike with stunning views, lush plant life and, eventually, multiple hot spring pools. The sulfurous waters have a distinct aroma, but the health benefits should outweigh the scent. Make sure to download and use the Alltrails app when approaching the site, as the trail isn’t particularly well-marked.
After purchasing the historic estate in 1941, Madame Ganna Walska devoted the last 43 years of her life to creating Lotusland’s breathtaking gardens. To ensure a visit, book a tour reservation well in advance.
Founded in 1786, this iconic Santa Barbara site is comprised of a grand bell tower, lush gardens and gorgeous vistas of the surrounding San Ynez mountains and Pacific Ocean. Self-guided tours are available daily, while docent-led tours are available on weekends.
Photography by: From top: Photo by Jay Sinclair, Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara; Courtesy of San Ysidro Ranch; Courtesy of Rosewood Miramar Beach; Courtesy of Carter Hiyama/@datsufilms/Visit Santa Barbara; Photo by Blake Bronstad, Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara; Courtesy of Jake and Jones; Photo by Brian Garwood, Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara; Photo by Blake Bronstad, Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara; Photo by Lotusland, Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara; Photo by Jay Sinclair, Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara
