Embark on a Hwy 1 Roadtrip: Make Santa Barbara your Ultimate Playground
Playtime is effortless in Santa Barbara, a major gateway to California's Central Coast on the Pacific Coast Highway. Known as "The American Riviera," Santa Barbara is a Mediterranean paradise located just 90 miles/145 kilometers north of Los Angeles. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean with Channel Islands National Park 22 miles offshore and mountains and wine country inland, the natural landscape beckons explorers and laid back vacationers alike. Discerning travelers from around the world continue to be charmed and delighted by Santa Barbara's timeless sensibility, distinctive architecture, vibrant arts and culture scene, culinary community and elevated shopping and wellness offerings.
Check into Your Home Away from Home
Choose from one of the four Santa Barbara Hotel Collection properties beloved for personal, family-style hospitality and great value-several complimentary amenities are included in room rates and there are no resort or parking fees. At the Best Western Plus Santa Barbara, experience spacious accommodations near downtown's Cultural and ARTS District. Wander the lush gardens, relax by the pool and dine at local favorite Live Oak Café. Stays at our three West Beach boutique hotels-Brisas Del Mar Inn at the Beach, Inn by the Harbor and Lavender Inn by the Sea-include deluxe continental breakfast, beach cruisers, wine social hour and evening milk and cookies. Plus, you're just steps away from the waterfront.
Neighborhood Hop
Get the lay of the land and take advantage of Santa Barbara's pedestrian- and bike-friendliness as you explore the eclectic neighborhoods. Our beach hotels are located in the West Beach neighborhood, in walking distance to the ever-popular Waterfront, Funk Zone and Downtown districts. Downtown, don't miss the ARTS District, a vibrant hub of arts, entertainment, retail and dining. The Presidio District is equally charming, with wine tasting rooms, historic landmarks and independent boutiques and eateries. Montecito, Summerland and Carpinteria-our neighbors to the south-are charming communities nearby, each worthy of a half-day jaunt. A bit further afield and only 45 minutes away, Santa Ynez Valley wine country makes for a great day trip visiting wineries, charming small towns and western ranches.
Savor Michelin-Approved Dining
Santa Barbara's restaurant scene continues to evolve in the most delicious of ways. Beachfront Caruso's in Montecito and Bell's in Los Alamos each have one Michelin star. The region has several Bib Gourmand and Michelin Recommended eateries across a wide spectrum of cuisines and price points-from tacos and pizza to sushi and Indian.
Play at these Iconic Landmarks
For quintessential Santa Barbara experiences, visit historic and architectural landmarks Mission Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County Courthouse and El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park. Bike the waterfront Cabrillo Bike Path, checking out The Harbor, Stearns Wharf and the colorful Chromatic Gate photo op.
Nourish Your Mind & Body
From yoga studios and day spas to salt caves and sound baths, Santa Barbara offers a rich array of wellness opportunities and specialists. Add the great outdoors, organic farms and countless places that specialize in clean cuisine and you've got all the ingredients to create your own personal health retreat.
Let Nature Lift Your Spirits
Explore native plant collections and wild ecosystems along Santa Barbara Botanic Garden's walking paths and hiking trails. Watch the sunrise at Shoreline Park, Lizard's Mouth or Inspiration Point. Catch the sunset at Douglas Preserve or Butterfly Beach. Hike in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains or head out to Channel Islands National Park for an epic daylong adventure in the untouched wilderness. Take a whale watching cruise, sunset sail or kayak tour.
Discover Boutique Wines
Sample the fruits of Santa Barbara's award-winning, world-renowned wine country right in downtown Santa Barbara. The Urban Wine Trail consists of dozens of inviting tasting rooms, where you can drop in for tasting flights of the latest vintages or order by the glass.