In the 30 years I’ve called California home, I had never been to Santa Barbara until 4 years ago. And then I only spent a few hours doing hotel tours on my way to the LA area. Recently I had the pleasure of spending 3 nights in Santa Barbara, and now I realize what a mistake I have made overlooking it as a vacation destination.
Santa Barbara has something for everyone:
Beach lovers – Miles of beautiful sandy beach with a paved walking/biking path. One of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen in my life was along this stretch of coastline.
Four miles of fun!
A California sunset should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Nature lovers – Whale watching tours out of the marina, migrating monarchs, hiking trails, hot springs, and botanical gardens.
Getting out on the water is a must whenever visiting a coastal town.
Shoppers – Not only the boutique shops and galleries on and around State Street, but also in small communities like Los Olivos.
Wine lovers – Hundreds of tasting rooms from the coast to the mountains. This area became famous in 2004 as the setting for the movie Sideways.
Couldnt ask for better wine-tasting buddies in Los Olivos. Others in the crew went art shopping and also did well
History Lovers – Take a trolley tour, visit the beautiful mission, or learn about old Hollywood.
The Santa Barbara Mission is a must see, and so photogenic.
Foodies and Partiers – The Funk Zone. ‘Nuff said.
Olio e Limone was fabulous!
Santa Barbara is hip, cool, sophisticated, casual, spectacular, romantic, fun, family friendly, and so California. It’s a great stop for visitors from out of state, especially as a respite from busy LA. And it’s a great weekend getaway for locals.
I live in San Jose, which is just a 4 ½ hour drive away, about the same distance as Lake Tahoe. I really enjoyed the fun road trip with nice scenery along the way, and the option to stop in Gilroy garlic country or at some Paso Robles wineries. There are also nonstop flights to Santa Barbara from San Francisco, Phoenix, Dallas, Denver, Portland, Seattle, and of course LAX.
Good to know: Alaska Airlines allows 1 case of wine to be checked for no charge between all west coast airports!
Passing through the central coast wine country on Highway 101.
N0t only does Santa Barbara have some of the most beautiful sunsets, but it also has one of the best hotels I’ve ever stayed in. Belmond El Encanto is a historic property that exudes a sense of timelessness, but does not lack for modern amenities. The hillside location offers stunning views of the ocean (and those sunsets!) from the pool and the dining terrace. And the gorgeously landscaped grounds, including a wishing well and frog pond, give guests the feel of walking around an enchanted garden.
I wish I could stay here forever!
Probably the best pool view in town.
This cute little cottage has lots of privacy.
The accommodations are unique, but all have wonderful craftsman details, including, private terraces or balconies, fireplaces, and spacious bathrooms. During our tour, our host pointed out the bungalows perfect for honeymooners, the suite which can host a small wedding on its terrace, and the two identical bungalows ideal for couples traveling together who can be close, but still have privacy. Several suites & bungalows combined in one building can accommodate a family group with parents, kids, and grandparents, or even execuuives on a corporate retreat.
A warm welcome, I couldn’t wait to see what was waiting inside.
And I was not disappointed!
Be sure to allow downtime to enjoy your outdoor space. Every bungalow has a private patio or balcony. Mine was big enough to host some friends!
And this one has been used to host small weddings.
We are member of Belmond’s Bellini Club preferred agency program, so my clients receive these exclusive amenities:
- Daily breakfast for 2
- Resort credit from $90-200 (depending on room type booked)
- Upgrade on arrival if available
- VIP status
Imagine enjoying your complimentary breakfast,(or a cocktail) here!
For more information, contact me at suzette@suzettemacktravel.com.
Feeling right at home!
