Beautiful Santa Barbara is one of the most popular day trip destinations for us LAHackers. And with good reason.
With gorgeous beaches, wonderful weather, non stop activities and the posh reputation that earns it the nickname “The American Riviera” this glamorous seaside town it seems to have it all.
In this article we help you narrow down all those choices to a few favorite cant miss stops on your next trip to Santa Barbara.
1 – The Chromatic Gate
Description:
Take a cool picture under a giant rainbow colored frame created by artist Herbert Bayer.
Located in Cabrillo Park in the city of Santa Barbara, this multicolored gate has captivated the eye of many locals and tourists who like to give their pictures a remarkable splash of color and creativity.
And if the structure isn’t impressive enough you can look directly across to non stop Ocean views.
Location:
800 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Pic Credit:@nutricion.ag
hack:
A pic with the Chromatic Gate looks awesome from either side. But just make sure you capture the Ocean in your backdrop! On warm days they may be a short line but its worth wait.
2 – The Santa Barbara Pier – Stearns Wharf
Description:
Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara has all the entertainment you need and you could spend a whole day there. More than just a pier there are fun activities you can enjoy like taking a water taxi and visit the marine center.
If fishing is your thing, you can get supplies at the Stearns Wharf Bait & Tackle and get to work right at the edge of the wharf.
Also find a variety of delicious food right there on the Pier while taking in those amazing views. Plenty of choices from casual cheeseburgers, fish and chips, to prime rib and steaks.
Many nearby restaurants also offer fine wines and seafood specialties.
Location:
217 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
PIC Credit:@oluki
hack:
One of the things that makes this Pier unique is you can drive a car right up on it and park. Even though we still recommend parking nearby and walking the Pier, driving a car right on it is not an option you get for many California Piers.
3 – Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co
Description:
There are plenty of choices for drinks in downtown Santa Barbara but this popular taproom has plenty of beer selections to satisfy everyone!
21 beers on draft to be precise. On warm days the outdoor seating area is the most popular place in the taproom.
And if you want to get out and explore more of downtown they also have bottles you can take to go!
Location:
137 Anacapa Street, Suite F, Santa Barbara CA 93101
PIC Credit:@Chriswesselling
hack:
Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co is very popular and every time we have gone its been a little packed. If there is a line to get in or to long of a wait there is another nearby brewery that’s pretty dang good in its own right.
Its called Brass Bear Brewing & Bistro and its a short walk.
4 – Old Mission Santa Barbara
Description:
You most visit this beautiful place at least once! This 13 acres property has gorgeous architecture and peaceful grounds that is actually home of the community of Franciscan Friars.
Commercial photography is not allowed but you definitely want to get a good selfie when come visit this remarkable Santa Barbara landmark.
Location: 2201 Laguna Street, santa Barbara CA
PIC Credit@hiddencalifornia
hack:
Free to visit but a cost to enter. Parking and walking on the grounds outside which includes multiple fountains, an herb garden, and a huge lawn for picnics are free.
However, going inside the mission (which includes the indoor gardens, museum, and church) is $12 for adults and a bit less for seniors and children.
5 – Santa Barbara Zoo
Description:
The Santa Barbara Zoo is 30 acres land full of activities for the entire family. It welcomes visitors daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and until 3:30 on Thanksgiving, Christmas eve and Christmas day.
More than 500 species are exhibited in open habitats. Plenty of additional attractions including the zoo train which is popular of course among the younger visitors.
Also Virtual Reality experiences including footage of humpback whales.
Location: 500 Ninos Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
PIC Credit:@byandreacastillo
hack:
The Santa Barbara Zoo has embraced the future with some pretty cool VR Technology. You can swim with the Humpback Whales or choose some other realistic animal centric VR adventures. .
It’s a fun, unique activity and only costs $6 to try.
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!