Santa Barbara is an undiscovered treasure – it can seem like an underdog compared to the bigger California tourist destinations like San Diego or Palm Springs, but it’s a hidden gem with lots of unique sights to see. Whether you’re looking to find a day of relaxation or a night of painting the town red, Santa Barbara attractions are varied and span the board of all different kinds of fun. See a show, sip a drink, or enjoy the views – These are the best things to do in Santa Barbara!
Catch A Show At Santa Barbara Bowl
It’s time for a night on the town that is full of jams, drinks and an awesome atmosphere for some live music. The Santa Barbara Bowl is a non-profit and the leading outdoor performing arts center in California, and they get some BIG names in for shows. From Rod Stewart to Arctic Monkeys to Shaggy, they’ve got genres for everyone.
Enjoy The Urban Wine Trail
Try a wine tour fit for a queen – The Urban Wine Trail has a reputation of highlighting the best wines in SB – with all the choices on the trail, even the pickiest sommelier-wannabe will be happy. What is wine without a food pairing? Disappointing. Grab a delish sammie at Metropulos Fine Foods to soak up all the wine!
Gardens at Lotusland
Reconnect with your green thumb, and see what kind of giant Jurassic Park-style plants are still around today. Lotusland is a great place to relax and stroll through amazing floral scents and gorgeous blooms. It’s a perfect way to restore and find some calm in a fast-paced world. Lotusland also holds events such as historical programs and exhibits.
Hike Inspiration Point
The perfect way to escape the rat race to enjoy a good sweat and better views. The Inspiration Point hike is well-trafficked, but for a great reason. It is a great length and ends with a great reward – amazing ocean vista. Grab your favorite workout buddy and enjoy one of Santa Barbara’s iconic hikes!
Santa Barbara Party Bike Tours
It was obvious we were going to make our own list of Santa Barbara fun, right?! Join us for a roll through Santa Barbara’s best bar scene and brew scene. Social Cycle is the perfect way to see the best of Santa Barbara and have a blast doing it!
Spa Day At Bacara
Spa at the Bacara is an incredible, holistic spa-experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to go! Relax in their redwood sauna and eucalyptus steam room while enjoying their incredible treatments, like their Hollywood Facial. Pretend you’re an A-list celeb and soak in the luxury!
Enjoy A Vegan Meal At Green Table
We’re lucky to have an abundance of eateries in Southern California that are vegan and gluten-free, but we especially love the Green Table. With a nutritionist as their general manager, you know you’re eating food that tastes good and is good for you! It’s a great option if you’re looking for a juice cleanse, or if you need something a little more filling. Try the Veggie Pizza!
Have A Beer At Brass Bear Brewing
We love the story behind Brass Bear Brewing and we LOVE their beer (which is why they’re a bar partner for our Santa Barbara party bike tours). Started by a husband and wife dream team in 2016, Brass Bear serves awesome beer, wine, cider, charcuterie boards, and hot sandwiches that will have you coming back for more. Support an awesome biz that serves some awesome brews!