When Adam and I drove as much as Santa Barbara for the wellness retreat I hosted earlier this month, I knew it will be lovely—however I didn’t count on how deeply restorative it will really feel. We stayed at Paraiso, a part of a surprising assortment of six Spanish-style properties in Montecito designed by some very gifted buddies of mine. From the second we arrived, surrounded by olive bushes and golden mild, I felt an exhale I hadn’t realized I wanted.
Between beginning the day with seashore walks, wandering by Summerland’s design outlets, and lingering over dinners that helped us decelerate and savor, this journey was precisely the soulful, design-forward reset that Santa Barbara does greatest. With its white stucco partitions, pink tile roofs, dusty succulent gardens, spindly palm bushes and slight European aptitude, it’s no marvel it’s been known as the Spanish Riviera of America. Right here’s my private information to the spots I really like most—for the place to remain, eat, store, and absorb the California magic.
WHERE TO STAY IN SANTA BARBARA
Paraiso Assortment, Montecito – We stayed right here this journey, and it was pure perfection. The six historic properties on property have been fully reimagined, every designed with a degree of intention and luxurious that’s uncommon to search out in a rental. Assume: arched doorways, pure textures, curated artwork, and ethereal indoor-outdoor residing. It’s the form of house that invitations you to decelerate, pour a glass of wine, and watch the sundown from the terrace.
Santa Ysidro Ranch, Montecito – The enduring hideaway that appears like entering into one other period. Lush gardens, personal cottages, and the faint scent of citrus within the air make it one of the crucial romantic stays in California. We celebrated Adam’s birthday right here with dinner at The Stonehouse—and it was as magical as you’d think about.
Resort Californian, Santa Barbara – In case you want staying nearer to downtown, this boutique resort blends Moorish-inspired structure with a contemporary edge. It’s steps from the waterfront and ultimate for anybody wanting walkable entry to State Avenue and the Funk Zone.
The Simpson Home – This lovely bed-and-breakfast inn options an acre of manicured English gardens only a brief stroll from Santa Barbara’s arts and tradition district. There are 15 visitor rooms in the principle home in addition to elegant suites and cottages, every with a wood-burning hearth.
El Capitan – These tents and cabins aren’t your common tenting expertise. Simply north of Santa Barbara and site proper by the seashore, El Capitan is the final word glamping keep and an effective way to expertise the El Capitan Canyon. In case you’re not up for cooking your individual meals, head to the recent and attractive Canyon Market and Deli. Excellent for a visit with the youngsters!
WHERE TO EAT
Breakfast
Discipline + Fort, Summerland – Our first morning cease and certainly one of my all-time favorites. It’s a hybrid café and residential store that appears like one thing out of a European village. The espresso is great, the avocado toast is piled excessive, and you’ll browse their superbly curated assortment of ceramics and linens when you wait.
Jeannines – Cease by for a traditional cozy breakfast at this spot that’s all the time filled with locals. With three places, it’s simple to search out one near you!
D’Angelos – This cosy little bakery provides housemade breads, pastries and different mild eats with sidewalk seating.
Summerland Seaside Café – A laid-back, dog-friendly spot that’s good after a morning seashore stroll. Anticipate hearty breakfasts, sturdy espresso, and a entrance porch that appears like dwelling.
Lunch
Lily’s Taquería – This little-known taco store is tucked in downtown’s far finish and provides low-cost, scrumptious and unfussy tacos.
Savoy – Laid-back and stuffed with wholesome recent made choices, this cafe was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for good motive! We stopped in after a stroll by State Avenue and downtown for certainly one of my favourite easy and wholesome lunches.
Lilac Patisserie – One among my private favorites, this all gluten-free bakery and cafe is a gluten illiberal’s dream. We’re speaking avocado toast and sandwiches made with their superb artisanal bread and to-die-for tarts, pastries, cupcakes and cheesecakes.
Santa Barbara Public Market – An upscale city market with tons of various choices, that is the proper spot for a stroll by and an off-the-cuff lunch.
Brophy Brothers – For a vigorous and informal lunch or dinner, head to Brophy Brothers for fish and chips overlooking the water.
Dinner
The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch – We had Adam’s birthday dinner right here, and it was unforgettable. Tucked into the hillside, surrounded by blooming gardens, this restaurant is the definition of romantic. The seasonal California delicacies—like halibut with citrus beurre blanc and the perfect chocolate soufflé—makes it a real vacation spot meal.
Loquita – Spanish-style tapas and craft cocktails in a vibrant, design-forward house downtown. The paella and patatas bravas are non-negotiables.
The Boathouse – Upscale seafood & brunch spot on Hendry’s seashore with panoramic ocean views and a heated outside patio.
Bettina, Montecito – A contemporary pizzeria and neighborhood favourite identified for wood-fired pizzas made with regionally milled grains, lovely salads, and pure wines. Go early and sit on the patio—it’s informal however effortlessly stylish.
Flor de Maiz – A waterfront favourite celebrating Oaxacan delicacies with trendy aptitude. Anticipate handmade tortillas, smoky mezcal cocktails, and dishes like mole negro and grilled seafood that showcase native California elements by a Mexican lens. It’s vigorous, colourful, and ultimate for sundown eating.
Fortunate’s – Basic steakhouse glamour in Montecito. Excellent martinis, oysters, and a dose of old-Hollywood power.
The Lark – A Santa Barbara establishment serving market-driven dishes within the Funk Zone. The form of place that feels each buzzy and intimate, particularly when eating al fresco underneath the string lights.
BEST SANTA BARBARA BEACHES
Ledbetter Seaside – A favourite for newbie browsing classes because of the simple waves and laid again angle, my husband had his first surf lesson right here! There’s an ideal space with picnic tables and grills in the event you’re feeling just a little cookout.
Hendry’s Seaside – Tremendous canine pleasant and a straightforward stroll over to The Boathouse (talked about above), this spot is among the native’s favorites.
Butterfly Seaside – One other native favourite, it’s a preferred spot on sunny days so parking might be laborious to search out. There aren’t a ton of facilities round it so remember to pack a yummy picnic!
THINGS TO DO IN SANTA BARBARA
Ganna Walksa’s Lotusland – Essentially the most lovely botanical backyard. Make sure you try their personal excursions that run throughout the spring and summer time.
The Funk Zone – A pair-block radius proper off the pier, The Funk Zone has tons of superior wine tasting rooms, and is a good place to scope out which wineries you’d prefer to hit in the event you plan to spend a day up in Santa Ynez. Cling round for its outside consuming and native wine and craft beer.
Climbing at Inspiration Level – This intermediate hike is pretty brief (3.5 miles spherical journey) and leads into Santa Barbara’s foothills and ends with an unimaginable view of the town. On a transparent day you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of downtown, the shoreline and possibly even the Channel Islands. Professional tip – plan your hike so you find yourself on the prime at sundown. Trailhead: Tunnel Rd. and Mission Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93190
The Mission – Based in 1786, The Mission is certainly one of Santa Barbara’s most historic and picturesque landmarks. You may tour the nonetheless energetic church and discover the grounds – the place you’ll see Seventeenth-century artwork, re-creations of the Mission’s residing quarters and kitchen, sleek structure and the colourful gardens.
Santa Barbara Courthouse – With its Spanish-Colonial fashion, elaborate hand-painted murals and superb view from the highest of the clock tour, this can be a should see! Enjoyable reality: Gwyneth Paltrow married Chris Martin right here! Make sure you test the occasions schedule to see if there’s an outside film going on the Courthouse’s Sunken Gardens. Film showings are free and normally start round 8:30pm. Convey snacks, jackets and a comfy blanket!
Solvang – After a fast (35 miles north of SB) and exquisite drive by the mountains, you’ll end up within the quant Danish capital of America. Take within the city’s quite a few outlets, bakeries, windmills, 15+ wine tasting rooms and cease by Copenhagen Sausage Backyard for lunch!
WHERE TO SHOP
The Nicely, Summerland – A curated mixture of dwelling, backyard, and way of life items that really feel like a masterclass in California design. Hand-thrown pottery, vintage wooden furnishings, and sculptural planters—every thing right here has soul.
Montecito Nation Mart & Coast Village Street – For elevated buying that also feels easy. You’ll discover Jenni Kayne, Mate the Label, and regionally owned boutiques with timeless style and homeware.
Godmothers Bookstore, Summerland – My latest obsession. It’s small, soulful, and stocked with lovely reads, journals, and indie titles. Additionally they serve wonderful espresso, so it’s simple to lose an hour or two right here.
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Each time I come dwelling from Santa Barbara, I really feel refreshed. Perhaps it’s the salt air, possibly it’s the design inspiration round each nook, or possibly it’s the best way time appears to sluggish simply sufficient so that you can discover the sweetness in small issues.
Whether or not you’re craving a inventive reset, a romantic weekend, or a wellness escape, Santa Barbara has this uncommon manner of supplying you with precisely what you didn’t know you wanted. I can’t wait to return—and after I do, you’ll discover me between the farmers’ market and one other lengthy, sluggish dinner underneath the celebrities.
