Capturing the essence of a fantastic coastal city getaway begins with booking a trip to Santa Barbara, California. This inviting and scenic city has long been loved for its collection of beaches, amazing boutique shopping, fine dining, and golf opportunities too. Of course, a trip to Santa Barbara just wouldn't be the same without taking time to appreciate the architecture that graces the city as well. From the Mediterranean to Spanish Colonial influence, Santa Barbara hosts an interior framework that speaks to history and style simultaneously. Whether you're one for the beach or better off shopping your vacation days away, Santa Barbara has something to inspire you. When your summer travel plans bring you this way, be sure to add the following Santa Barbara activities to your itinerary.
One of the best routes to enjoying a comprehensive glimpse of the city is to hop on a Santa Barbara Trolley and take a ride. This tour tends to take anywhere from 1.5 hours to 2 hours total and is ideal for those that are excited to see all of the major city sights in comfort and style. The trip is narrated and your guide is more than willing to answer questions along the way.
Santa Barbara has a way with style but is equally adept at flavor. When you're hoping to try it all, book your place on a food tour with the team at Taste Santa Barbara. This walking tour lasts up to 3 hours as your friendly guide gives you insight into the city's history while leading the way towards some of downtown's most savory stops featuring both beverages and flavorful fare.
If you're a traveler with a taste for truly unique travel experiences, booking a Land Shark experience is sure to please. Move seamlessly between land-based sightseeing into the water with this amphibious vehicle alongside a local and often laughter-inducing guide! While the jokes are bound to be fun, the information you receive along the way is accurate and insightful. Spend 45 minutes touring the city on wheels before moving into the water and getting up close with Santa Barbara sea lions.
A summer visit to Santa Barbara should always include a sensational stroll along Stearns Wharf. This iconic pier is located within Santa Barbara Harbour at the cross-section of Cabrillo and State Streets. First completed in 1872, the pier brings plenty of history with it and today is a wonderful place to enjoy a collection of shops and restaurants all framed by a fantastic waterfront view. Whether you're here to people watch, take photographs or enjoy some of the area's best seafood, a trip to Stearns Wharf is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.
Get ready for a wild California adventure with your summer vacation stop at the Santa Barbara Zoo. Featuring over 500 animals from around the world, this destination is ideal for those that are excited to get up close to amazing creatures and learn more about conservation along the way. This zoo's amazing location near the ocean comes with 30 acres of dedicated space for guests to enjoy and animals to roam. When your feet get tired of walking the many paths, hop on the zoo train for a comprehensive look at the landscape.
Walk, skate, or run your way through a California summer day when you make time for a visit to Shoreline Park. This is arguably one of the city's most popular park stops with good reason. Stunning views of the Pacific can be savored from the top of a mesa while the many dedicated pathways are perfect for visiting with the family or canine companions. Shoreline Park is the perfect place for aspiring or professional photographers to come and capture an amazing shot-particularly at sunrise or sunset.
For those that find their peace of mind surrounded by the beauty of nature, a trip to nearby Lotusland is sure to be an inspiring choice. Officially known as Ganna Walska Lotusland, this botanic garden is located in Montecito and was formerly the estate of Ganna Walska. Today, guided 2-hour walking tours of the lush landscapes within the estate are available by reservation and well worth the time to organize. Guests will get a glimpse into a luxurious lifestyle while enjoying incredible displays of gardening.
Whether you're here for the summer fun or arriving at any other time of year, the team at Paradise Retreats is here to make sure your stay in Santa Barbara is truly one of a kind. Contact us today to learn more about our many rental property options in the city and to begin planning your next California adventure!
