Santa Barbara is called the “American Riviera”. There are plenty of activities for you to participate in and places to see. This includes going to the beach, hiking, playing golf, sight seeing, and of course, shopping.
Outside Activities in Santa Barbara:
One of the reasons Dave and I returned to Santa Barbara was because both of our families and many of our friends live here. So those of you who know us well, know that we do a lot with our families and friends, including going to the beach. We suggest Butterfly Beach or Santa Claus Beach when you want to sunbathe or go for a walk. When you want to be active and play volleyball, East Beach is the place to go.
If you are a golf lover like Dave, there are plenty of great golf courses you can play. Dave’s favorites are Rancho San Marcos and Glen Annie golf courses.
Here is a link of more beaches in Santa Barbara
Here is a link to some more Golf courses in Santa Barbara County
Here is a link to other outside activities you can do while in Santa Barbara
Shopping
One of my most favorite “things” to do is to shop. The one place I love to shop at is Paseo Nuevo Mall; where my favorites, Nordstrom and Banana Republic, are. I also love to walk along State Street, in the area know as “Downtown”, where there are tons more stores. I prefer Bryan Lee and Anthropology.
Here is a link to detail your experience in Santa Barbara
Here is a detailed map of the malls and stores in Santa Barbara
Restaurants:
There are terrific restaurants in Santa Barbara. One of the great things to do in Santa Barbara is to go out for dinner and drinks. Here are some of our favorites:
Piranha Restaurant & Sushi Bar (Japanese)
Rocks Restaurant & Lounge (American Gourmet, with Japanese emphasis)
Chucks Steak House (American)
Brigitte’s (French American)
Brophy Brothers Clam Bar & Restaurant (Seafood)
Stella Mare’s (Gourmet American)
Joe’s Café (American/ Italian)
Bucatini (Italian)
The Palace Café (Cajun)
The Palms (This is our favorite in Carpinteria) (American – Cook Your Own Steak)
Here is a link to more restaurants in Santa Barbara
Sight Seeing:
If you have never been to Santa Barbara there are some great historical sights. Some our favorites are:
The Santa Barbara Mission
Santa Barbara Court House
Santa Barbara Harbor
The Presidio
Here is a link to other sites you can see in Santa Barbara