One of my most favorite things about Santa Barbara is the endless options of adventures you can have. Whether it’s a beach day or a day trip to Santa Ynez Valley to wine taste, you’re bound to have fun while basking in crazy beautiful sceneries. My little black book to Santa Barbara continues, here’s a look at some of my favorites spots to play, shop and go to for a day trip.
Best beach, Hammonds (seen here and here). Just to the right of Miramar Beach in Montecito. A semi-private spot that is usually deserted besides a handful of surfers.
Get the best view of the city on a Double Dolphin sunset cruise. It’s only $25 to go for a 60 min sail on a 50′ catamaran that takes you down the coast towards Montecito. You can even order wine on the boat or bring your own picnic.
Plan ahead and catch a concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl. Every time I see a band play there (Mumford & Sons, Phoenix, Ray Lamontagne, Ben Harper) they always play the best show because they fall in love with the town and always without a doubt make a comment about how they can actually see the stars from the stage.
There are loads of amazing hikes but my favorite starts at the foothills of Montecito at the end of Cold Springs Road—Cold Springs Trail. The view is always rewarding at the top.
Wine taste by the beach on the Urban Wine Trail, close to downtown as well. My favorite stop is Municipal Winery which has the most creative interiors, good music and super refreshing rosè.
Picnic at the Santa Barbara Mission Rose Gardens, a giant grassy lawn with an impressive rose garden that faces the Mission—a sight you must see while visiting. Pick up cheese, sandwiches and wine at C’est Cheese or ask them to pack a basket for you! The beau and I love coming here with friends and a game of bocce ball, see our recent get-together here.
Clothing:
Dressed and Ready in Montecito—two incredibly stylish stores that house everything from Givenchy and Lanvin to Equipment tops and Toms shoes. You might find yourself saying “hello lover” to a pair of YSL shoes.
A Tropical Affair—Bikini/lingerie heaven. Designed in the most girly, glamorous way possible (think pin-up girl meets the coolest mermaid on the block circa 1950) this downtown shop has favorites like La Perla, Cosabella, Dolce & Gabbana, Melissa Odabash and more.
Peregrine Galleries—A treasure trove of vintage jewelry by Chanel, Mariam Haskell, Zuni and more. Prepare to spend some time browsing and drooling over crazy cool pieces.
Diani Boutique—If you’re all about comfortable, chic pieces be sure to check out this boutique which houses favorites like Isabel Marant, Velvet and Elizabeth and James.
Home:
Maison K—Every time I step foot in this store I’m inspired to re-decorate my home with a Paris-meets-Africa-meets-the beach vibe. I always leave lusting over an animal print rug or a candle from Paris.
Porch—If a touch of organic modern is your look, you’ll love this beachside home store. Grab home and garden accessories on your way out of town—it’s just off the freeway in Carpinteria.
Upstairs at Pierre Lafond—Vintage Mexican and Moroccan textiles galore is just the tip of the iceberg at this Montecito shop. Incredibly soft Italian bedding, giant coffee table books, picnic blankets and PJs are a few things I’ve spotted and loved there recently.
Wine Tasting in Santa Ynez—One of my favorite things to do when Santa Barbara is banked in with fog—you can always count on there being sunshine in Santa Ynez, just 30 min north. A few stops that are at the top of my list: Curtis Winery, Carhartt Winery, Los Olivos Cafe, Roblar Winery, Sunstone Winery, Enjoy Cupcakes (seen here) and Cold Spring Tavern (seen here).
Ojai—The trip to Ojai from Santa Barbara (taking the 150 route, 30 min) is worth the scenic drive alone—you’ll pass orchards, wide open meadows, lake casitas, deer and mountains. There’s just something about Ojai that forces you to relax, especially if you visit the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa. Here are some favorite spots of mine that I love to frequent: Boccalis *Ojai location, Knead Bakery, Osteria Monte Grappa, Julia Rose (clothing) and Hattie (clothing).
