Nestled between a majestic mountain range and the Pacific Ocean, and surrounded by wild, undeveloped coast, Santa Barbara is a self-contained paradise. The city is conveniently located 90 miles north of Los Angeles and 325 miles south of San Francisco. Santa Barbara Airport, jus 10 minutes from the city, is served by major carriers with direct flights from multiple domestic cities.

The City’s distinctive Spanish-style architecture, with red-tile roofs and white adobe buildings, and its lush, verdant landscape evoke the topography and aesthetic of the European Riviera, but with a carefree California spirit.

Simultaneously sophisticated and bohemian, easy-going and energetic, Santa Barbara offers exceptional arts and culture, relaxing resorts and hideaways, wellness experiences and outdoor adventures on land and at sea.

Add thriving, world-class wineries, a hyper-local culinary scene and welcoming locals, and there’s no denying that Santa Barbara has elevated living well to an art form.

Visitor information for Santa Barbara and nearby Montecito, Summerland and Goleta is available at SantaBarbara.CA.com.

Culinary Cachet

Santa Barbara County offers more than 2—wineries. Over 40 tasting rooms are located along Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail just minutes from the beach. The 2004 film “Sideways” brought attention to the region, with pinot noir and chardonnay among its most popular varietals. But Santa Barbara is also one of the most diverse wine-growing regions in the world, with seven American Vitcultural Areas (AVAs) and more than 80 grape varietals.

As of December 2022, MICHELIN has recognized 15 Santa Barbara restaurants for their excellence. Caruso’s and Sushi by Scratch Restaurants, both in Montecivo each received one star. Eight were named “recommended” restaurants and five were recognized as “Bib Goumand”, offering value for less. Must try: Santa Barbara sea urchin is a delicacy prized by the world’s chefs.

Arts & Culture

Few cities of Santa Barbara’s size match the quality and diversity of its artistic and cultural offerings, which include more than two dozen museums and galleries, public art installations, stellar performance venues hosting world-class theatre, dance chamber orchestras, and more. Must see: “The Chromatic Gate,” aa rainbow Bauhaus sculpture.

Cultural Heritage

The self-guided Red Tile Walking Tour is a great way to learn about the city’s Spanish architectural gems and history. Highlights include Old Mission Santa Barbara (aka “The Queen of the Missions”), El Presidio, and historic adobes. Must see: the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, an Andalusian-style building in the heart of downtown.

Dynamic Downtown

Santa Barbara’s walkable downtown offers an engaging mix of buzzy restaurants, shops, wine-testing rooms, breweries, a distillery and a lively night scene. Great shopping abounds – stroll through quaint arcades and winding cobblestone pathways (also known as “”paseos”) among water fountains, swaying palms and historic buildings to find local boutiques and name-brand retail stores alike.

Parks, Gardens & Trails

Santa Barbara is known for its beautiful parks and acclaimed gardens, including Ganna Walska Lotusland and Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, as well as its front and backountry trails winding above Santa Brbara. Offshore, Channel Islands National Park, aka the “Galapagos of North America,” offers hiking and kayaking in some of the world’s largest sea caves. Must see: Douglas Family Preserve, perched atop an ocean bluff.

Oceanfront Activities

Santa Barbara’s downtown waterfront offers three iconic beaches, along with ocean activities for varying skill levels. Popular outdoor activities include biking, kayaking, sailing, stand up paddle-boarding, year-round whale watching, horseback riding, yoga, volleyball, swimming, surfing, parasailing and snorkeling. Must see: Santa Barbara Harbor, a scenic harbor with more than a thousand boats.

Recent Accolades

• Meetings Today names Santa Barbara one of “3 California Cities Leading in Sustainability.”
• Sherman’s Travel names SB one of the “Best Smart Luxuyr Destinations for 2023.”
• PureWow names Santa Barbara one of the “25 Best Beach Towns in America.”

For more information, please visit santabarbaraca.com.

Visit Santa Barbara: Karna Hughes