A Chill Weekend in the American RivieraJust a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara (AKA the American Riviera) is the ultimate in sophisticated, laid-back California style. Dine in farm-to-table restaurants, sip a California Chardonnay, stroll along the sparkling blue waters, and admire the Mediterranean-style architecture here! AuthorsHankchapin_
DestinationsSanta BarbaraItinerary

Where to Chill

Stearns Wharf
Be sure to go to this historic pier for the perfect sunset. You can see the coastline, the Santa Ynez Mountains, and the Channel Islands from this viewpoint.
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East Beach
This is the most popular beach in Santa Barbara, so you may want to chill here first thing in the morning or later in the day. The rows of palms and the broad, sandy beach make this a great spot to soak in the views.
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Nojoqui Falls Park
Get out of town midday for an adventure in the ultimate spot! Visiting Nojoqui Falls is like stepping into a fairy tale. When you reach the 80-foot waterfall, feel free to snap a selfie with nature's best backdrop—just be careful not to slip on the rocks! Pack a picnic to enjoy in the lush park afterward.
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West Beach
If you're up for it, join one of the beach volleyball games going on here.
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Leadbetter Beach
The beach to go to if you want to learn to surf! (Or if you just want to watch people surf).
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Hendrys Beach
This is the only beach in Santa Barbara where dogs are allowed off-leash.
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Things to See

Old Mission Santa Barbara
If you make time to see only one thing in Santa Barbara, the mission should be it. The mission, often referred to as the 'Queen of the Missions,' was founded in 1786 and sits on 15 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The grounds include the Mission Church, a historic cemetery, lush gardens, a mausoleum, and more.
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The Funk Zone
This cool neighborhood is a great place to shop, check out independent galleries, and taste wine at the urban wineries in converted warehouses decorated with street art.
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Santa Barbara Chromatic Gate
Head here for the perfect photo op at this rainbow gateway.
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State Street Visitor Center
State Street is Santa Barbara's most famous avenue! It runs from Sola Street to Cabrillo Boulevard and Stearns Wharf, and you can come here to shop, eat, or just stroll and people-watch. A heads-up that this street is nearly 1.5 miles long, so be sure you wear good shoes!
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Jeff Shelton Architect
This Santa Barbara architect is famous for his whimsical home designs. There are a bunch of his designs to see spread out throughout town, including one called The Chapel at 1330 State Street.
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Where to Eat

ALESSIA Patisserie and Cafe
This French-style bakery really adds to the Mediterranean vibe. Get the banana French toast!
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Handlebar Coffee Roasters
Dive into a Vanilla Latte—it's like a warm hug in a cup! Don't miss the Nitro Cold Brew and grab a flaky ham and cheese croissant for a delightful crunch.
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Sama Sama Kitchen
When you visit Sama Sama Kitchen, dive into the Nasi Goreng—a fried rice dish that’ll make your taste buds sing. Pair it with the zesty green papaya salad, and don't skip the banana donut fritter for dessert.
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Scarlett Begonia
This charming restaurant uses sustainable, organic, and high-quality ingredients. Popular for its $30 all-day breakfast, which comes with several dishes, including lemon ricotta pancakes.
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Helena Avenue Bakery
Grab a breakfast sandwich on house-baked bread here!
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Cold Spring Tavern
Order the legendary tri-tip sandwich—it's so good, it might just make you sing! Pair it with crispy onion rings for a flavor explosion. Enjoy your meal by the cozy fireplace or under the trees, soaking in the mountain vibes. Btw, it's been here since 1865!
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Shoreline Cafe
Dine ON the beach. This spot serves Mexican an seafood dishes right on Leadbetter Beach.
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McConnell's Fine Ice Creams
This place is iconic in Santa Barbara. The line moves fast and the wait is worth it.
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Brophy Bros.
A great lunch or dinner spot that serves up oysters and clam chowder. Enjoy your meal with a view of the beach!
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Zaytoon
The romantic atmosphere is on-point at this dinner spot serving Lebanese and Middle Eastern food. Enjoy the fire pit, fairy lights, and lush garden.
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SAMsARA Wine Co.
This place makes some of the best and brightest Pinot Noir in the state. I suggest the high-end Pinot flight.
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Lucky Penny
Grab a wood-fired pizza and a frozen rosé for dinner here!
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Experiences to Try

Los Padres Outfitters
Saddle up with Los Padres Outfitters for a wild ride through Santa Barbara's stunning backcountry, or take a ride on the beach at sunset! Giddy up alongside friendly guides who'll share tales taller than the mountains you're exploring.
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Sunset Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)
Instead of watching the sunset from the pier, do it from the water!
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Santa Ynez Wine Tour (All-Inclusive)
Fice hours of delicious meals, and wine with an expert. Here's your chance to try a lot of great places in Santa Ynez.
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Private Surf Lesson with Instructor, Board, & Wetsuit
Enjoy the surf with some lessons. All skill levels are welcome, and all you need to bring is yourself, swimwear, and a beach towel.
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Places to Stay

Franciscan Inn & Suites
This hotel is super dog-friendly, affordable, near the Funk Zone, close to the beach, and you get complimentary cookies every day!
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El Encanto, Santa Barbara
This boutique hotel has been restored to its 1920s glory! The Mediterranean-style hotel also has a super lux infinity-edge swimming pool that overlooks the stunning California coastline. If you don't stay here, definitely come for brunch with beach views.
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Hotel Californian
The ultimate "American Riviera" stay, this chic 121-room hotel attracts everyone from Hollywood elites to locals. With its Spanish architecture, a rooftop pool, and proximity to the waterfront district, there's no doubt you're in Santa Barbara!
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