Experience the Magic of Santa Barbara
Did you know that Santa Barbara, California, is favored for being one of the best travel destinations in the USA for honeymoons, weekend breaks and family vacations? Read below to see what makes Santa Barbara so special.
Beaches
Santa Barbara boasts some of the best beaches in the USA, with Leadbetter, West and East beaches being among the most popular. Sink your toes in the clean sand, swim in the clear blue waters, partake in a game of volleyball or enjoy a picnic under the shade of palm trees. After a day of fun in the sun, relax in a nearby hotel that is suitable to your budget and taste.
Outdoor Activities
Because it is nestled between the sea and the mountains, Santa Barbara features ideal weather, offering opportunities to enjoy various outdoor activities such as golfing, tennis, skydiving, kayaking, surfing and even whale watching. Hike along scenic trails like the Cold Springs Trail or the San Ysidro Trail and see stunning waterfalls and breathtaking views of the city and ocean.
Historical sites
If you enjoy sightseeing historical places, Santa Barbara offers plenty of eye candy for you. Among the most popular sites include the Santa Barbara Courthouse. You normally don’t think of a courthouse as being a tourist attraction, but you have to see the Santa Barbara Courthouse to understand why it is such a remarkable site. Surrounded by tall palm trees and lovely gardens, you can’t help but awe over its charming, Spanish architecture, tiled walls, murals and pottery. Learn about the interesting history of the city and take the elevator to the top of the clock tower and bask in the spectacular views of the city, ocean and mountains.
Another interesting site is the Santa Barbara Mission. Founded in 1786, this well preserved site embodies the history of the area. Here, you can see colonial artifacts like furnishings and tools used by the Chumash Indians. See how the city looked in the 1900s from earlier photos. Check out the old cemetery that is claimed to be haunted.
Arts and Culture
Lovers of arts and culture will not be disappointed in Santa Barbara. To begin with, check out the Santa Barbara Art Museum in the downtown area. Here, you can gaze upon impressive collections of Asian, American and European art, ranging from ancient to modern day works. Catch a live performance at the Lobero Theater, another of California’s significant landmarks. The theater serves as venue for operas, symphonies, dramas, musicals and more.
Shopping and Dining
No visit to Santa Barbara would be complete without shopping along its famous State Street. Stroll along this picturesque avenue and look for a bargain among the specialty boutiques or department stores. Check out the art galleries and have lunch in your choice of restaurants or outdoor cafes.
Family Fun
A great place to take the whole family is the Ty Warner Sea Center at Stearns Wharf. Here, you can see and learn about the animals and sea life native to the local area through exciting hands on activities and educational experiments. Overlooking the ocean, the Santa Barbara Zoo is another fun-filled attraction. See up to 500 different animals like giraffes, elephants, lions and gorillas.
Ready to experience beautiful Santa Barbara? Check out the many travel deals offered online and start planning your vacation today.
