Sometimes the best adventure is the one that feels almost effortless—a quick trip that whisks you away to a world of ocean breezes, sun-drenched hillsides and timeless coastal charm. Just a short, direct flight from Salt Lake City, Santa Barbara offers exactly that kind of easy escape. Framed by the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, the American Riviera sets the stage with its iconic white stucco walls, red-tiled rooftops and palm-lined promenades.
It’s the perfect base for exploring nearby gems: the relaxed, shopping vibe of Summerland, the discreet luxury of Montecito and the creative energy of Santa Barbara’s Arts District and Funk Zone, where galleries, eateries and local makers bring the city’s vibrant soul to life. And if you’re in the mood for a countryside detour, the rolling vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley are just a short scenic drive away. Whether you’re craving beachside serenity, boutique shopping or a dash of cultural discovery, this stretch of California coast delivers—and it’s closer than you think. Here’s how to make the most of your getaway.
A young woman rides her bike down Stearns Wharf. Photo courtesy of Brad Mee.
Kayakers glide through the clear blue waters,
taking in views of the scenic waterfront.
Waterfront
Santa Barbara’s waterfront is where the city’s coastal soul truly shines—it’s a breezy blend of sophistication and laid-back charm. Begin your stroll in the Funk Zone, a vibrant neighborhood of former warehouses now brimming with art galleries, wine-tasting rooms and buzzworthy eateries, all just steps from the sea. Across the street, the hip Hotel Californian anchors the scene with its striking Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, modern luxury accommodations and standout dining. Nearby, the Harbor View Inn offers a home base with ocean views and a front-row seat to the coastal rhythm. Wander Stearns Wharf, where sailboats glide by and spots like the recently opened Oyster Bar at Moby Dick Restaurant serve up fresh seafood with sweeping views of the harbor. The waterfront delights with dockside sips at Dart Coffee Co.’s new harbor outpost and Santa Barbara Whale Watching and Sunset Cruises that whisk you out to sea. Further along the coast, Ellwood at Goleta Beach is a fresh addition to the dining scene, where coastal cuisine meets casual elegance right on the water. Whether you’re biking along Cabrillo Boulevard or sunning on the beach, the waterfront invites you to soak it all in—quintessential California with a Santa Barbara twist.
Porch, one of many Summerland home & garden boutiques, welcomes with its relaxed coastal style. Photo by Sara Prince.
An open door and outdoor table at Gala reflect the restaurant’s casual, welcoming vibe. Photo by David Collier/Visit California.
Summerland
A short drive from Santa Barbara, the seaside village of Summerland is a haven for design lovers drawn to its blend of coastal calm and curated charm. Along Lillie Avenue, a delightful mix of home, garden and lifestyle boutiques turns shopping into a carefree, slow-paced treasure hunt. At Shane Brown’s The Well, spirited and expertly selected home and garden offerings fill sun-drenched gardens and storybook cottages that embody the shop’s signature rustic elegance. Down the road, Godmothers—an independent bookstore and community hub named by Oprah Winfrey—offers over 12,000 curated titles and hosts artist and author events in a chic restored 1920s barn. Across the street, Botanik offers a lush mix of garden accents, décor and inspiration, blending indoor-outdoor style with ease. Nearby, Porch channels relaxed, coastal-inspired style in a two-story dwelling brimming with design pieces for indoors and out. And further along, Field + Fort invites you to linger, whether browsing its broad selection of bespoke furnishings and collectibles, or savoring a seasonal meal at its on-site Mediterranean-inspired café, Feast. Don’t miss the transportive oasis that is The Sacred Space, where global artifacts and serene gardens blur the line between shopping and spiritual retreat.
A fun-loving couple cruises down Cabrillo Boulevard, enjoying the breeze and waterfront views. Photo courtesy of Brad Mee.
The Hotel Californian’s chic lounge showcases Martyn Lawrence Bullard’s daring, Moroccan-inspired design. Photo courtesy of Hotel Californian.
The Well in Summerland is a treasure trove of spirited offerings, filling a sun-drenched garden area and cute cottages stocked with antiques and unique finds. Photo by Jay Sinclair.
Montecito
Tucked between the mountains and the sea, Montecito feels like a hidden enclave of understated luxury, where leafy lanes, elegant estates and a breezy village vibe draw locals, discerning travelers and a quiet contingent of celebrities who appreciate its blend of seclusion and style. Stroll through the Upper Village or along Coast Village Road, where boutiques, jewelers and chic lifestyle shops invite leisurely browsing and shopping. When hunger calls, Bettina is a must, beloved for its wood-fired sourdough pizzas, seasonal small plates and relaxed European charm. Just minutes away, discover the otherworldly beauty of Lotusland, a 37-acre botanical wonderland tucked into the hills. Once the private estate of the eccentric opera singer and garden visionary Madame Ganna Walska, it’s now one of the most breathtaking gardens in the world (reservations required).
On a hillside in Montecito, Lotusland is a breathtaking expanse of exotic gardens
and stunning architecture. Photo courtesy of Lotusland.
A majestic whale breaches the waters off
Santa Barbara. Photo by by Adam Ernster/CondorExpress.
Arts District
In the heart of downtown, Santa Barbara’s Arts District pulses with culture, flavor and local character. Anchored by the red-tiled rooftops and graceful arches of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, this walkable neighborhood blends historic beauty with creative energy. Start your morning at the Saturday Farmers Market, where chefs and locals mingle over just-picked produce and vibrant blooms. Nearby, the extensively renovated Santa Barbara Museum of Art offers an impressive collection spanning centuries and continents. For dining, the Arts District delivers: Gala charms with its intimate setting and seasonal, locally-sourced menu, while Bouchon offers refined California-French cuisine with a strong nod to the Central Coast’s wine country. Before or after dinner, duck into The Good Lion, a moody cocktail bar overlooking State Street and known for expertly crafted drinks and a cozy, elevated vibe. Tucked just a few blocks away, The Canary hotel crowns the district with its rooftop views, boutique sophistication and Finch & Fork, its restaurant serving elevated California comfort food in a welcoming, relaxed setting.
Wine Scene
Santa Barbara is a dream for wine lovers, whether you prefer to sip your way through downtown or venture out to the wine country. Start with the Urban Wine Trail, a collection of relaxed, walkable tasting rooms tucked into neighborhoods like the Funk Zone, the Presidio and State Street, where you can sample everything from crisp Albariños to velvety Syrahs—all without leaving town. For a deeper dive, a scenic 45-minute drive inland leads to the Santa Ynez Valley, home to some of California’s most celebrated vineyards. Tour exceptional estates like Sunstone, with its Provençal-style villa. Cap it off with lunch in Los Olivos at Nella Kitchen & Bar, where house-made pastas and seasonal small plates pair perfectly with a local Pinot.
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