Top Spots for your Santa Barbara Girls Trip

You won't go wrong in Santa Barbara but here are the top spots for hotels, eating, and stepping out.

Dining

Santa Barbara's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of diverse flavors, local ingredients, and world-class cuisine. From casual beachside eateries to upscale dining establishments, the city offers a wealth of options to satisfy your taste buds. Here are some of the top dining options in Santa Barbara that you won't want to miss during your girls trip:

The Lark

Located in the heart of Santa Barbara's Funk Zone, The Lark is a popular dining destination that celebrates the Central Coast's bounty of fresh ingredients. Their seasonal menu features a creative blend of flavors and dishes inspired by the region's farmers, ranchers, and winemakers. Enjoy shareable plates in a stylish, communal atmosphere that embodies the spirit of Santa Barbara.

Brophy Bros

For a quintessential Santa Barbara seafood experience, head to Brophy Bros., situated on the picturesque Santa Barbara Harbor. This local favorite offers a casual and lively atmosphere, with stunning views of the harbor and surrounding mountains. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes such as clam chowder, fish and chips, and shrimp ceviche, all while taking in the waterfront ambiance.

Ca'Dario

Experience the flavors of Northern Italy at Ca' Dario, a charming trattoria nestled in downtown Santa Barbara. Chef Dario Furlati's authentic Italian dishes, made from scratch with locally sourced ingredients, include mouthwatering pastas, risottos, and a variety of meat and seafood options. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a cozy dinner with friends.

Los Agaves

For a taste of Mexican cuisine, Los Agaves is a must-visit. With multiple locations throughout Santa Barbara, this family-owned restaurant offers an extensive menu of traditional Mexican dishes, as well as innovative creations that showcase the best of the region's ingredients. Don't miss their signature molcajetes, enchiladas, and homemade aguas frescas

Olio e Limone

Olio e Limone Ristorante is an upscale Italian dining experience that focuses on fresh, organic ingredients and traditional Sicilian recipes. The elegant atmosphere is perfect for a special night out, and the menu features a variety of pasta dishes, seafood, and meats, all carefully prepared by Chef Alberto Morello

Bouchon

Bouchon is a Santa Barbara institution that offers a true farm-to-table dining experience, with a menu centered around the freshest local ingredients. Celebrating the region's wine country cuisine, Bouchon's menu features French and Californian influences, with dishes like duck confit, pan-seared scallops, and seasonal vegetable preparations. Pair your meal with a selection from their extensive wine list, which focuses on local Santa Barbara County wines

La Super-Rica

No trip to Santa Barbara would be complete without a visit to La Super-Rica Taqueria, a humble taco stand that has gained a cult following. Made famous by Julia Child, this iconic eatery offers delicious, authentic Mexican street food, such as tacos, tamales, and their signature Super-Rica Especial. Expect a line, but it's well worth the wait

Activities

Santa Barbara is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, wine lovers, and culture aficionados alike, offering a plethora of exciting activities to suit every taste. Here are some of the top activities to explore during your Santa Barbara girls trip:

Wine Tasting

Beach Exploration

With miles of pristine coastline, Santa Barbara offers ample opportunities for beach lovers. East Beach, Butterfly Beach, and Arroyo Burro Beach are just a few of the local favorites for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. For a unique experience, head to Carpinteria's Tar Pits Park to explore the natural tar seeps.

Santa Barbara Museum of Art

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art features an impressive collection of European, American, and Asian art, as well as rotating exhibitions. This world-class museum offers a diverse range of artworks, from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Stearns Wharf

Stearns Wharf, the oldest working wooden wharf in California, is a popular tourist destination with its array of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Enjoy stunning ocean views, visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, or simply relax with an ice cream cone while watching the sunset.

Old Mission Santa Barbara

As the tenth of 21 California missions, Old Mission Santa Barbara is a historic landmark with beautiful architecture and lush gardens. Take a self-guided tour of the mission, explore the on-site museum, and learn about the history of the Chumash people and early Spanish settlers

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a 78-acre oasis showcasing California's native plants in a beautiful, natural setting. Wander through the various garden sections, enjoy scenic views of the Santa Ynez Mountains, and learn about the region's unique flora and ecology

Outdoor Adventures

With its mild climate and diverse landscapes, Santa Barbara is an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Hike the trails of the Santa Ynez Mountains, rent bikes and cycle along the waterfront, or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking in the harbor

Funk Zone

This trendy, arts-centric neighborhood is a must-visit for those looking to explore Santa Barbara's vibrant cultural scene. The Funk Zone is home to art galleries, boutique shops, wine tasting rooms, and unique dining experiences, all within a few blocks of each other

Santa Barbara Farmers Market

Experience the freshest local produce and artisanal goods at the Santa Barbara Farmers Market, held downtown on Tuesdays and Saturdays. This bustling market features over 100 vendors offering seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and more

Shopping on State Stre

State Street, the city's main thoroughfare, offers a delightful shopping experience with its mix of national retailers, local boutiques, and specialty shops. Enjoy a leisurely stroll beneath the palm trees, browsing for unique finds, and take breaks at charming cafes and restaurants along the way