This past weekend TJ and I headed up the coast to one of our all time favorite spots: Santa Barbara. There are so many wonderful things about Santa Barbara, I could go on and on and on. I’ve spent childhood summers there with Allison and my parents, and it quickly became a favorite weekend getaway for TJ and me. Having traveled to Europe, Hawaii, and the Caribbean, I can honestly say that some of the most beautiful land on Earth is the West Coast…. from San Diego to San Francisco, there is so much to see and do. After returning from our European adventure this past Spring, TJ and I decided to stay local and hit up some of our favorite California spots pre-baby (although, we already have a few California getaways planned for when she arrives).

Having been to Santa Barbara many times over the past few years, I decided to share some of my favorite spots to eat, stay, and play. I’m no local (although I wish I was), but these are the spots we have come to love! If you’re planning a trip to the area in the near future, be sure to check some of them out!

STAY: 

The Canary Hotel: One of our all time favorite spots. The decor is fabulous, with different textures everywhere. When you walk in you feel like you are immediately at home. Free bike rentals allow you to explore State Street and The Funk Zone at your leisure. Not wanting to venture out? No need. The rooftop pool and fireplace are the perfect spots for a little rest and relaxation. A hosted happy hour, with wine, is a fun way to kick off the early evening. It’s dog friendly too for all you fur parents out there (Captain loved his stay :))! A moment to talk about their impeccable service: I forgot my pillow at their sister hotel, The Goodland, and asked if it would be possible for them to somehow have it transported to their hotel. It was completed within the hour.

The Goodland Hotel: I had been wanting to check out this newly renovated hotel since it opened. Located in Goleta (which is about a 15 minute drive from downtown Santa Barbara) it’s hip, cozy, and again, Kimpton didn’t skimp on the decor. Their restaurant, The Outpost, is delicious, and the cocktail list looked mouthwatering (next time, right??). They also offer evening activities and that Friday evening was movie night on the lawn. Will definitely be returning soon!

Four Seasons: The ultimate in luxury and service (although I would tell you the Canary hotel is right there with the Four Seasons), we love staying here on special occasions. Located in Montecito, on beautiful Butterfly Beach, the Spanish decor makes you feel miles away from home. The rooms are cozy, and bathrooms luxurious. Check out the pool and enjoy a Biltmore Smash (my favorite cocktail there), or enjoy some light bites at their restaurant as the sun sets over the Pacific. You won’t be disappointed by your stay 🙂

{The Canary Hotel rooftop pool}

{The Goodland Hotel}

{The Four Seasons}

EATS

D’Angelo Cafe: (breakfast) Try the Rose Breakfast (poached eggs with an artichoke spread), steel cut oats, or the french toast (hey, you’re on vacation!!). It’s a small, seat yourself kind of place, and I’ve never had a bad meal!

The Shop Cafe: (breakfast) A walk-up and order, laid back spot, with clever recipes. A true foodie would enjoy this spot! I’ve enjoyed the breakfast salad both times I’ve visited…. if you’re a benedicts fan, you will love their take on it: The Tugboat (only available on the weekends). They also make a pretty darn good iced chai tea latte with almond milk.

Jeannine’s Restaurant and Bakery: (breakfast) They have healthy options and total splurge choices available… so it suits the palate of everyone! With multiple locations you don’t want to miss it! I also LOVE the dishes they serve their meals on (hey, at least I’m being honest!).

Backyard Bowls: (breakfast) A favorite every time we come. Since we love to get in a morning run, we always stop by for a post-run healthy breakfast. You can’t go wrong with any choice you make… unless you don’t go… then that’s just wrong :).

Panino: (lunch) Can I just go out on a limb and say that these are some of the best sandwiches, ever?? In my first trimester, and into this one too, I craved one of their veggie sandwiches. I was in heaven as I noshed on it this past weekend! They have multiple locations… so if you’re in the Montecito or Los Olivos area you can enjoy them too!

Luck Penny: (lunch) If you’ve made your way to the Funk Zone and have enjoyed a few beer or wine flights, this is a must stop for some fuel! Salads, pizzas, and flatbreads… you really can’t go wrong.

Carlitos: (dinner) This is a must stop for us every time we’re in the area. Some of the tastiest Mexican food ever enjoyed on the cutest outdoor patio. Try the halibut ceviche and pozole. You won’t be disappointed.

The Lark: (dinner) Another spot located in The Funk Zone. Such a fabulous vibe and atmosphere with delicious food (sharing sizes) and craft cocktails. It’s farm to table and so fresh! (photo below taken in February)

Olio Pizzeria: (dinner) Craving pizza? This is your spot. Traditional Italian cuisine, I felt like I was transported back to the old country. The bruschetta and margherita pizza are absolutely delicious!

Play:

Inspiration Point: For sweeping and spectacular views, you must check out this hike! Not too challenging, but enough to get your heart rate going, you’ll be ready for some of those “Eats” spots when you’re done!

The Funk Zone: Enjoy a little wine and beer now and then? This is your spot. With multiple tasting rooms, and restaurants (see above) you can spend hours sipping, eating, and laughing with friends!

The Beach: I guess this one is a no brainer! My favorite beach in Santa Barbara (well Montecito I guess) is Butterfly Beach. We’ve enjoyed picnics on this beach, along with some shell collecting. In Santa Barbara, head to the beach to enjoy a little beach volleyball.

Santa Barbara Public Market: This is an amazing market with a focus on local and artisanal favorites! The surrounding stairs are beautiful too!

Shopping: There is plenty to spend your money on along State Street!

The Zoo: For those of you with young ones (that’ll be me soon!!) you don’t want to miss this zoo! I have so many fond memories (the famous giraffe with the crooked neck) of this spot that I can’t wait to take our little girl there!