Santa Barbara California, USA Travel Guide
Santa Barbara’s diverse landscape, from mountains to ocean, fosters outdoor enjoyment.
Douglas Family Preserve features flat, wide trails on an ocean bluff, with expansive views. The Coastal Bike Path is a paved, flat path along the waterfront.
Inspiration Point Trail (approx. 3.5-mile round trip, 800-foot elevation gain) rewards hikers with panoramic views. Rattlesnake Canyon Trail (approx. 4.5 miles round trip, 900-foot elevation gain) follows a creek with seasonal waterfalls.
Jesusita Trail (7-9 miles round trip, 1,400-foot elevation gain) a challenging climb. Seven Falls Trail, connecting from Tunnel Trail, requires rock scrambling to reach seasonal waterfalls.
Always check local conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on outdoor activities. Prioritize safety and be prepared for changing conditions.
Beyond eating, Santa Barbara fosters immersion in its food and wine culture.
This historic theatre hosts touring Broadway shows, major concerts, comedy acts, and dance performances.
California’s oldest continually operating theatre, it hosts concerts, dance, and community events in an intimate setting.
An intimate venue popular for jazz, blues, folk, and rock performances, often with dinner service.
I Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival (May): Artists create large-scale chalk drawings. Santa Barbara Film Festival (Jan/Feb): A major international film festival. Old Spanish Days Fiesta (August): Week-long celebration with parades, rodeos, traditional music, dancing, and food.
Support community-based tourism by choosing locally owned businesses. The Funk Zone has a strong community of independent artists, artisans, and small business owners. Purchasing from them directly supports the local economy and creative community.
Funk Zone: Numerous artist studios and galleries where you find and purchase local art. Stearns Wharf: Shops on the wharf offer local souvenirs and some artisan goods. Consider items featuring Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, Chumash-inspired crafts, or local wine/olive oil.
Santa Barbara provides many avenues for unwinding and rejuvenation.
These natural, undeveloped hot springs are located in the hills above Montecito. Access requires a moderate hike, making it an adventure to reach this rustic, natural soaking spot.
Several yoga studios in Santa Barbara offer drop-in classes for visitors. Look for studios near your accommodation or those offering beachfront yoga. More extensive retreats are found in the broader Santa Barbara County area.
Traditional healing practices are not a prominent feature for tourists in Santa Barbara. The focus trends more toward modern spa treatments and wellness trends.
The Granada Theatre, Lobero Theatre, and Campbell Hall (UCSB) host concerts. SOhO Restaurant & Music Club is intimate for jazz, blues, folk, and rock.
Center Stage Theater and Ensemble Theatre Company at The New Vic offer contemporary plays and independent productions.
EOS Lounge is popular for DJ sets and energetic dancing. Wildcat Lounge is a long-standing local favorite for dancing and various music genres.
Santa Barbara has diverse shopping opportunities, from local crafts to luxury brands.
Features a mix of national brands and local boutiques. The pedestrianized section has a pleasant shopping experience.
These outdoor shopping centers along State Street combine architectural charm with a mix of retailers.
This street offers high-end boutiques, art galleries, and luxury brands in a more exclusive setting.
Check specific venue websites for their schedules and any age restrictions. Early arrivals are recommended for popular spots on weekends.
