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Central Coast

Santa Barbara

The Allure of the American Riviera

Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara blends Mediterranean-inspired elegance with California’s laid-back coastal spirit. Known as the American Riviera, the city charms with whitewashed Spanish Colonial architecture, red-tile roofs, palm-lined beaches, and a thriving food, wine, and arts scene. Just 90 miles north of Los Angeles, it feels worlds away from the bustle of the city.

Clocktower view from the Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Clocktower view from the Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Santa Barbara's Cabrillo Bike Path at Sunset
Cabrillo Bike Path at SunsetPhoto by JessyLynn Perkins, courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara

In Santa Barbara, stroll beneath the Spanish-style arcades of State Street, explore the historic Santa Barbara County Courthouse, or discover local art and wine tasting rooms in the lively Funk Zone. Along the waterfront, palm-lined Cabrillo Boulevard connects sandy beaches, Stearns Wharf, and the picturesque harbor. The city’s sophisticated dining and cultural scene punches well above its weight for its small size, featuring a remarkable concentration of acclaimed restaurants, galleries, and performing arts venues.

State Street in downtown Santa Barbara
Shops on State StreetPhoto by Mark Weber, Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara
Murals at the Funk Zone in Santa Barbara
Murals at the Funk ZonePhoto by Blake Bronstad, courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara

Montecito

Just east of Santa Barbara, Montecito’s coveted zip code has long attracted Hollywood stars, business titans, and those seeking a more discreet kind of luxury. Behind lush hedges and gated estates, this celebrity enclave maintains an understated elegance. Browse the chic boutiques and restaurants along Coast Village Road, explore the enchanting grounds of Lotusland, or unwind along the shores of Butterfly Beach.

Cypress trees along the beach against the setting sun
Butterfly BeachPhoto by Jay Sinclair, Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara
Porch in Summerland
Porch in Summerland

Summerland

Further along the coast, Summerland pairs small-town charm with a flourishing design scene. Its walkable main street is lined with thoughtfully curated home boutiques, antique shops, and inviting cafés. Browse the shops and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Later, head to Lookout Park for sweeping ocean views and a wine picnic overlooking the Pacific.

Three women on a horseback ride along the beach in Santa Barbara County
Horseback riding on the beachPhoto by Jay Sinclair, Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara
Palm trees at Refugio State Beach
Palm trees at Refugio State BeachPhoto by Anna Naughton, courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara

Goleta

To the west, near the airport, Goleta offers a more relaxed, outdoorsy side of the Santa Barbara coast. Explore the beaches and coastal trails near UC Santa Barbara, or venture farther west along the scenic Gaviota Coast to discover uncrowded stretches of sand. From here, Highway 101 winds through the mountains toward the wineries and charming towns of the Santa Ynez Valley.

For more trip-planning inspiration, visit Visit Santa Barbara.

 

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

31 Hotels

The Eagle Inn ExteriorThe Eagle Inn EntranceEagle Inn Guest Room 103 FireplaceEagle Inn Firepit with Hot Chocolate in Branded Coffee MugsEagle Inn Guest Room 109 with two beds

The Eagle Inn

Santa Barbara$$$

Handcrafted details, fireplaces, soaking tubs, and a made-to-order breakfast create a romantic stay just blocks from Santa Barbara’s waterfront.

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King balcony guest room at Inn on Summer HillExterior at dusk_ Inn on Summer Hill at duskLobby a the Inn on Summer HillLobby of Inn on Summer HillDbl Guest room at the Inn on Summer Hill

Inn on Summer Hill

Summerland$$$

Ocean-view balconies, cozy fireplaces, cooked-to-order breakfasts, and evening wine and desserts create a romantic coastal retreat near Santa Barbara.

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Expansive garden lawn at Simpson House Inn featuring two wooden lounge chairs, manicured hedges, palm trees and a two-story building with a wraparound balcony.Two-story cottage at Simpson House Inn featuring a wraparound balcony with white railings, brick chimney, covered porch and lush garden landscaping.Historic Victorian-style Simpson House Inn surrounded by mature trees, manicured hedges and gardens with a decorative fountain and outdoor seating.Library lounge at Simpson House Inn featuring brown leather sofas and armchairs, a carved wooden coffee table, patterned rugs and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves.Hayloft guest room at Simpson House Inn featuring vaulted white wood ceilings, a bed with floral pillows, leather loveseat, writing desk and shuttered windows.

Simpson House Inn

Santa Barbara$$$$

Hidden amid English gardens near downtown Santa Barbara, a restored Victorian estate pairs richly layered interiors with fine culinary traditions.

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Exterior of Palihouse Santa BarbaraLobby in Palihouse Santa BarbaraFront desk at the Palihouse Santa BarbaraGuest room at Palihouse Santa BarbaraGuest room Balcony_Palihouse Santa Barbara

Palihouse Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara$$$$

Bold patterns, Spanish Colonial architecture, and a leafy courtyard pool bring playful sophistication to this intimate downtown Santa Barbara hotel.

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