Welcome to Santa Barbara, a charming coastal city in California known for its stunning beaches, delicious food, and vibrant arts and culture scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new to discover in this wonderful city. From exploring historic landmarks to indulging in wine tasting adventures, Santa Barbara has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll be highlighting the best attractions and things to do in Santa Barbara, so grab your sunscreen, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to discover the magic of this beautiful city!

The 4 Best Things To Do With Family In Santa Barbara

1. Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour With Lunch
2. Santa Barbara Funk Zone Food Photo Tour
3. Santa Barbara Walking Tours History Architecture
4. Soar Above Beautiful Santa Barbara

The 4 Best Things To Do With Family In Santa Barbara

1. Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour With Lunch

Explore the exquisite wines of Santa Barbara with our Wine Country Tour with Lunch. This enjoyable day trip takes you to the vineyards and small production wine tasting rooms of boutique independent-family-owned wineries. The route may vary as we work with over 25 wineries to showcase the quality and diversity of fine wines in Santa Barbara. The tour lasts for about six hours and transportation is available from the surrounding areas. We begin pick-ups for the Santa Barbara area at 10:00 a.m. and then move on to the Santa Ynez area at 11:00 a.m. While exploring the wine country, you will also enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch. Join us for an unforgettable wine tasting experience.

2. Santa Barbara Funk Zone Food Photo Tour

This 3-hour walking tour is a foodie and photography lover’s dream. Start on Lower State Street and explore the newest neighborhood in town – the Funk Zone. You’ll visit eight tasting locations, from gastropubs to Mexican food, with a professional tour guide who will share interesting stories about each place you visit. In addition to tasting what Santa Barbara is known for, you’ll discover hidden graffiti art and galleries, further immersing yourself in the local culture.

But that’s not all. Your tour guide will also teach you easy-to-shoot photo tips, helping you take your food photo skills to the next level using your smartphone’s camera app. Using the Funk Zone Tour Guide Sheet with a map and exclusive tour guest discounts, you’ll be eating like a local and shooting like a pro in no time. The tour includes all food and drinks, so come hungry and ready to taste and explore!

3. Santa Barbara Walking Tours History Architecture

Explore the history and architectural wonders of Santa Barbara with this private walking tour. Meet your guide at El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park and set off to discover the city’s famous landmarks, including City Hall and the Granada Theatre. Your guide will customize the itinerary to fit your interests and provide fascinating insights into the city’s origins and adobe construction. In addition to seeing the top attractions, you’ll also venture off the beaten path to discover some lesser-known gems. With a private tour, you’ll have a flexible and personalized way to explore Santa Barbara. This tour includes historical photos, parking fees, and lunch. Book now to embark on an unforgettable tour of Santa Barbara’s history and architecture.

4. Soar Above Beautiful Santa Barbara

Embark on a unique parasailing adventure through the beautiful coastal city of Santa Barbara, located in California. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the city’s historic Stearns Wharf, beaches, and Californian waves while guided by an expert captain for your safety. This unforgettable experience can be shared with your family and friends to create lasting memories.

The tour includes parasailing and meets at Santa Barbara Parasail located on Stearns Wharf. Look for the yellow and black flag that reads PARASAIL! After the experience, the activity concludes at the same location. Don’t miss your chance to make your Californian vacation even more extraordinary with this unique adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a beautiful city on the central coast of California, known for its stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. It’s no wonder that tourists flock to this city year-round! However, as with any new destination, there are always certain questions that pop up. In this blog post, we will explore the most frequently asked questions that tourists have about Santa Barbara.

1. What is the best time to visit Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and dry summers. The best time to visit Santa Barbara is from March through May or September through November when the crowds are smaller and the weather is pleasant. However, if you’re looking for beach weather, then the summer months of June through August are your best bet. Just be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this time.

2. What are some of the top attractions in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has a plethora of attractions that are worth visiting. One of the most popular is the Santa Barbara Zoo, which is home to over 500 animals from around the world. The Santa Barbara Mission, which was founded in 1786, is another popular attraction that showcases the city’s rich history. The Stearns Wharf, which is the oldest working wharf in California, is also a must-visit destination. Finally, the State Street Promenade, a pedestrian-friendly street filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries, is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

3. What are the best beaches in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is home to several beaches, each with their own unique amenities and attractions. Some of the most popular beaches include East Beach, which is popular for its volleyball courts and picnic areas. West Beach is another popular destination, with its palm trees, beachside cafes, and stunning views of the ocean. Another crowd favorite is Leadbetter Beach, which is perfect for surfers and kayakers.

4. What are the best restaurants in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has a thriving food scene, with a variety of restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to farm-to-table cuisine. Some of the most highly-rated restaurants in Santa Barbara include The Lark, which features an ever-changing menu that highlights local ingredients. Another popular spot is The Black Sheep, which is known for its creative tapas-style dishes. For seafood lovers, The Hungry Cat is a must-visit destination, with its fresh oysters, lobster, and crab.

5. What outdoor activities are available in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, with activities like surfing, kayaking, and hiking readily available. The Santa Ynez Mountains, located just east of the city, offer numerous trails that are perfect for hiking and biking. Another popular destination is the Channel Islands National Park, which is accessible via boat and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, kayaking, and snorkeling.

6. What is the culture like in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has a rich cultural heritage that is evident in its architecture, art, and cuisine. The city is home to numerous museums and galleries, such as the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural History. The city is also known for its festivals and events, such as the Santa Barbara International Film Festival and the Old Spanish Days Fiesta, which celebrates the city’s heritage.

7. What is the best way to get around Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a walkable city, with many of its major attractions located within walking distance of each other. Biking is also a popular way to get around, with bike rentals available throughout the city. If you prefer to drive, there are several car rental companies available in Santa Barbara, as well as ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

8. What should I pack for a trip to Santa Barbara?

Be sure to pack sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and lightweight clothing, as temperatures can range from mild to hot depending on the time of year. Don’t forget a swimsuit if you plan on visiting the beach! If you plan on hiking or biking, be sure to pack appropriate gear and plenty of water.In conclusion, Santa Barbara is a beautiful city that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the city’s history and culture, or enjoy outdoor recreational activities, Santa Barbara has it all. We hope that this guide has answered some of your most pressing questions and has inspired you to plan your next trip to this unforgettable destination.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Santa Barbara

If you are planning your next vacation, you might want to explore Santa Barbara, California. Santa Barbara, also called “The American Riviera”, is one of the most preferred tourist destinations in California. This beautiful city is renowned for its amazing weather, pristine beaches, picturesque mountains, stunning architecture, and a lot more. To help you make the most of your time while in Santa Barbara, we have compiled a list of things to do and see while in the city.

Explore the Beaches

Santa Barbara is famous for its beaches, so if you love sun and surf, be sure to visit some of the great beaches here. Most beaches in Santa Barbara have perfectly clean sand and clear water, and are perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Here are a few of them:

East Beach

East Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Santa Barbara. The beach stretches for almost a mile and is perfect for swimming, picnicking, and even playing volleyball. The palm trees and green lawn make for a perfect setting for a picnic.

Butterfly Beach

Butterfly Beach is a hidden gem, nestled in the Montecito neighborhood just south of Santa Barbara. The beach is only accessible via street entry or public access points, but once you get there, it’s all worth it. The beach is serene, and perfect for scenic walks on the sand, picnics, and even swimming.

Arroyo Burro Beach

If you are looking for a secluded spot to spend some time, you might want to head down to Arroyo Burro Beach. This beach, also known as Hendry’s Beach, is relatively un-crowded and has trails that wind through the coastal bluffs. The beach is also known for its vast stretches of grassland, which make for a great picnic spot.

Visit the Museums and Art Galleries

If you are interested in culture and the arts, then Santa Barbara has plenty to offer in terms of museums and art galleries.

Santa Barbara Museum of Art

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is one of the oldest museums in California and is dedicated to showcasing international art. The museum’s permanent collection features over 27,000 pieces of art from around the world.

Santa Barbara Natural History Museum

The Santa Barbara Natural History Museum is a great place to learn about the natural world. The museum is home to an array of exhibits and collections covering topics such as insects, marine life, and fossils.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara

The Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara is renowned for its collection of contemporary art featuring artists from the local community and around the world. The museum also hosts several events and exhibitions throughout the year.

Wine Tasting in Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara County is one of the top wine regions in the world. There are over 200 wineries in the region that produce a wide range of wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting at many of the local vineyards or take part in guided tours.

Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour

The Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour is a great way to taste some of the best wines of Santa Barbara County. The tour takes visitors through picturesque vineyards and offers opportunities to taste the region’s best wines.

Stolpman Vineyards

If you are looking for an intimate wine tasting experience, Stolpman Vineyards is a great choice. This winery offers a range of wines from their estate vineyards and provides visitors with a personal tour of the vineyards.

Fess Parker Winery

Fess Parker Winery is perfect for visitors who want to combine wine tasting with the stunning Santa Barbara views. The winery offers an array of wine tastings and tours amidst the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains.

Visit the Old Santa Barbara Mission

The Old Santa Barbara Mission is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The mission is a working church and museum and is home to a wealth of history and art. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the history and culture of the mission.

Book Your Tour Now

We hope this guide has given you some insights into the many things you can see and do in Santa Barbara. From enjoying the pristine beaches, exploring local museums and galleries, tasting some of the world’s best wines, to visiting the Old Santa Barbara Mission, there’s something for everyone in this spectacular city.