Santa Barbara | Itinerary Ideas

Weekend Getaways In Santa Barbara

For a beautiful weekend on the Pacific Coast, it's hard to top Santa Barbara. The pristine city's perfect climate gives rise to a number of natural attractions worth checking out. Stroll through the Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens to view breathtaking flora or hike a scenic nature trail in Los Padres National Forest.

The beaches all have their own vibe. East Beach attracts the young and hip while fishing and whale watching beckon a mixed crowd to Arroyo Burro. Indoor enthusiasts will find solace touring the fine collection at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art or poking around the old Mission. For a fresh and delicious seafood dinner, the restaurants on Stearn's Wharf can't be beat.

Outdoor recreation
Los Padres National Forest: Covering 1.75 million acres and more than 220 miles in two different counties, the land is semi-desert in the interior while the coast is lined with redwood forest.
Address: California
Phone: 805-968-6640
Free


Beaches
East Beach:
Heralded as one of the best beaches in the United States, this lively, always crowded stretch of shore attracts younger crowds.
Address: East Cabrillo Boulevard & Milpas Street, Santa Barbara, California
Phone: 805-564-5418
Free

Arroyo Burro County Beach Park:
The locals call it Hendry's Beach, a place to meet for breakfast or a cocktail at sunset, stroll or jog the sandy shore, watch for whales, fish or ride the wild surf.
Address: 2981 Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara, California
Phone: 805-687-3714
Free


Gardens
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden: Garden enthusiasts will savor the nearly 70 acres of native regional plants at this popular attraction.
Address: 1212 Mission Canyon Road, Santa Barbara, California
Phone: 805-682-4726
Admission fee


Get History
Mission Santa Barbara: Visitors can tour this historic Franciscan mission that features twin bell towers and lovely gardens.
Address: 2201 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara, California
Phone: 805-682-4713
Free


Museums
Santa Barbara Museum of Art: This museum, founded in 1941, houses a prestigious and varied collection of modern and ancient art plus a special gallery for children.
Address: 1130 State Street, Santa Barbara, California
Phone: 805-963-4364
Admission fee


On the waterfront
Stearns Wharf: Visitors can watch fishing boats unload the day's catch, enjoy spectacular sunsets and sample fare from fast food to fine dining at California's oldest working wharf.
Address: Cabrillo Boulevard, Santa Barbara, California
Phone: 805-564-5518; 805-897-2683
Free