Santa Barbara is known as the "American Riviera," and upon first glance, it is not hard to understand why this city of approximately 90,000 residents receives that sobriquet. With its balmy year-round climate, world-class museums, boutique shopping, five-star restaurants, and natural attractions, Santa Barbara is undoubtedly one of California's coastal gems. Your mom is sure to feel the love when you plan a vacation getaway to enjoy a Santa Barbara Mothers Day!
When in town for a quick weekend getaway, mom has a wide selection in dining options, from luxurious upscale restaurants with spectacular ocean views to casual family-friendly ones along State Street in downtown Santa Barbara. Whatever choice is made, whether it's the lovely Boathouse on the Beach restaurant located right on the coast or the cozy Scarlett Begonia in the center of town, an obligatory stop must be made at Renaud's Patisserie for a Parisian macaron or chocolate croissant.
After brunch or breakfast, if mom enjoys wine, champagne or craft beers, take her to the Funk Zone, Santa Barbara's beachfront neighborhood known for its boutique retail shops and wine bars. In fact, this area has so many wine bars that it has its own urban wine trail which features grapes from all over the world. Inside the enoteche (wine cellars), mom can also find some of the local region's best varietals, from Sangiovese and Sauvignon Blanc to Malbec and Merlot. Additionally, this neighborhood has one of the best restaurants in Santa Barbara County. The award-winning menu and innovative cocktails at Lark deserve a visit at least once during your stay, especially if you can't make brunch reservations during the Santa Barbara Mothers Day.
Following a late-morning brunch, take mom down to Cabrillo Boulevard along the waterfront to visit the Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show. Every Sunday, for more than 50 years, this fair has showcased local artists and entertained the public. After an art purchase or two, venture down to Stearns Wharf and visit the Santa Barbara Natural History Museum & Sea Center or have a bowl of chowder if museums aren't on mom's itinerary. On the other hand, if mom does want to continue with the art tour, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art contains a vast collection of more than 27,000 works. All around downtown, there are also many magnificent renditions of Spanish Colonial-Revival architecture such as the restored Mission Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, El Presidio de Santa Barbara and the old El Paseo District.
Santa Barbara is also known for its day spas, and since the climate is similar to the one in the Mediterranean, the resorts and spas try to emulate the same vibe where you may sometimes feel as if you are in Greece or Italy. From simple salons that provide manicures and pedicures to the most luxurious spas on the Californian coast, Santa Barbara is a paradise for moms on Mother's Day.
Santa Barbara Mothers Day is a time to show your appreciation for the one who does more for you than anyone else; show her you care with a trip to Santa Barbara! Contact us today to book your stay and give her the Mother's Day of a lifetime.
