If you are looking for the perfect summer getaway this year, look no further than beautiful Santa Barbara. Our California home is a great place to visit any time of year, but summer in Santa Barbara is truly special. A visit during the start of summer lets you enjoy cool temperatures, plenty of outdoor and indoor activities, and avoid the bigger crowds of late summer. Take a look at some of our favorite early summer activities in Santa Barbara this year:
When you visit Santa Barbara, you will immediately notice how many locals take advantage of the friendly streets. Visitors and locals alike are able to bike all around Santa Barbara for a relaxing ride. Several bike paths, such as Cabrillo Bike Path found around the waterfront, lead to beautiful beaches with incredible views. Take in the crisp ocean air as you casually explore the city. For more adventurous riding, you can head out to the mountain trails just outside the city. Grab a mountain bike and ride along these shared trails. The best place for you to grab a bike in town for a short rental is Wheel Fun, the largest bike shop in all of California. This local rental shop features everything you need to properly hit the biking trails.
Make sure to stop by the Santa Barbara Zoo to visit some incredible exotic animals. The Santa Barbara Zoo has been a staple of the community for years. They currently house many beautiful creatures such as leopards, anteaters, flamingos, gorillas, lions, and so much more. You can easily view each animal in its spacious habitats. The Santa Barbara Zoo will be opened at a limited capacity with reservations made in advance. If you are visiting in early June your children can join their Summer Zoo Camp where they can enjoy interactive science exhibits, guided tours, and even get close-up encounters with some of the animals!
Santa Barbara has many incredible spots where you can casually kayak around the shore. Adventure lovers will want something more thrilling to satisfy their trip such as a visit to Prisoners Harbor. Don't let the name fool you as this area is one of the most beautiful areas to visit. Take a kayak tour with Santa Barbara Adventure Company where you will be guided to the area found just north of Santa Cruz Island. All tours will take you to your destination and provide you with all the gear you need. Make sure to check out their other tour offerings such as rock climbing and wine tasting tours!
Now that we have your attention, you will want to explore the many wineries found around Santa Barbara. The early summer season is a great time to visit so you can enjoy these wineries outdoor, especially as some restrictions are still in place. Local wineries such as Santa Barbara Winery and Jamie Slone Wines are local favorites and offer tasting flights to try a little of everything. Enjoy other wines by the glass or pick up a bottle or two to take back to your vacation rental. Some of these wineries also have open spaces that can allow a friendly pup to join you on the festivities.
Nothing screams summer quite like picking up a cool treat such as ice cream. Santa Barbara is the home of McConnell's Fine Ice Cream, a locally owned shop that has been around since the 1940s. You can grab a cone or bowl of your favorite ice cream that is made in-house at either of their two locations. Enjoying your ice cream in the shops may still be limited this summer but you can easily do a walk-up order and enjoy your treat as you walk around the city.
Knock out all of your shopping and dining needs by stopping at Stearns Wharf during your visit. This local pier has been open since 1872, making it one of the city's oldest landmarks. While it has seen several renovations over the years, it continues to host a variety of unique shops and restaurants. Browse the locally owned stores or stop in for a delicious meal with oceanside views. Plan your visit accordingly, as many of the restaurants will have limited seating available. Keep an eye out for the beautiful Spanish and Mediterranean-style architecture at Stearns Wharf!
Do not hesitate on planning your early summer activities in Santa Barbara. Reserve one of our luxury vacation rentals right here in the city. You will have access to incredible amenities and home features that are unavailable at other lodging options. Stay away from crowds and have your own personal home away from home this summer in Santa Barbara.
