Best hotels in Santa Barbara
Residence Inn by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta
6350 Hollister Avenue, CA 93117
Sat opposite Santa Barbara Airport, this 3-star hotel radiates comfort and convenience. You’re ideally placed to explore Santa Barbara and wider California, with easy access to U.S. 101 highway. Then unwind by the outdoor firepit and in the spacious suites and studios.
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
633 East Cabrillo Boulevard, CA 93103
Just meters from East Beach, Hilton’s beachfront resort offers up stunning views of the glistening Pacific Ocean from the balcony of your room. Guests are free to enjoy the on-site facilities, including the luxurious spa, outdoor pool and tennis courts.
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
8301 Hollister Avenue, CA 93117
Experience Californian glamor at this five-star hotel, situated on the outskirts of Santa Barbara. With breathtaking views over the Pacific, access to two beaches, a world-class dining experience and a luxurious spa sanctuary, this tranquil resort offers relaxation in opulent surroundings.
Best restaurants in Santa Barbara
The Lark Santa Barbara
131 Anacapa Street, CA 93101
Situated in an old fish market, this modern eatery celebrates southern Californian cuisine in a communal setting, with hand-crafted furniture and vintage radiators. Diners can tuck into fresh foods from the farm, ocean and ranch, including grilled trout and hand-cut tagliatelle.
Opal
1325 State Street, CA 93101
Enjoy a delicious meal while watching the world pass by on State Street, at a restaurant that fuses Californian cuisine with global inspirations. Take a seat and be transported through the Golden State, with authentic meals ranging from fresh seafood to wood-burning pizzas.
Convivo Restaurant
901 East Cabrillo Boulevard, CA 93103
Sit out on the patio overlooking the ocean and sample classic Italian fare at this seafront eatery. From fresh salads and homemade pastas, to smoked meats and roasted seafood, all dishes draw influence from Southern California’s coasts, farmlands and vineyards.
Things to do in Santa Barbara
Old Mission Santa Barbara
2201 Laguna Street, CA 93105
Santa Barbara is overflowing with Spanish Colonial historical architecture, especially at Old Mission. Embark on a tour of the building and its grounds to delve into the historic church, cemetery and mausoleum – all while enjoying sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez mountains.
Santa Barbara Zoo
500 Ninos Drive, CA 93103
There’s fun for all ages at Santa Barbara Zoo. Hop onboard the Zoo Train for a whistle-stop tour of the park – you’ll meet all the animals in no time. Reserve a slot to hand feed the zoo’s Masai giraffes or wander the grounds at your own pace to discover local and exotic species, from California Condors, to Asian otters and African lions.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
1212 Mission Canyon Road, CA 93105
Located on the foothills of Santa Ynez mountains, this botanical garden provides the perfect oasis for an afternoon among nature. With 78 luscious acres and 1,000 species of wildlife, the garden also features Californian flora in their natural environment and an authentic Japanese Tea Garden.