A Fabulous Weekend in Santa Barbara

Among all the coastal destinations in California, Santa Barbara holds a special place in our hearts - it was the first coastal city we went for vacation many years ago after moving to sunny California. Now paying another visit to this place, not only did we have tons of funs exploring the city again, but also reminded us of these good old times and precious memories.

“House Hunting” Tour

If we have to name the single most impressive thing about Santa Barbara, it has to be its unique architectures all around the city. We started our visit with “house hunting” - walking around and finding some of the most adorable designs of residential/commercial properties. Here are a few recommended MUST SEEs from us, all with easily walkable distance from city center:

El Jardin: 819 Garden St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

For a moment, definitely thought we were in Disney World instead.

El Zapato: 522 Garden St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Imagine going home to this wonderland everyday.. How fun is that!

Cota Street Studios: 225 E Cota St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

The prettiest driveway shared with all your neighbors, so cool!

Vera Cruz: 521 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Tell us this as an art gallery, we’d totally believe it!

The Ablitt House: 15-1 W Haley St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

A tall tower that stands out not only because of its height.

El Andaluz: 523 Chapala St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Just one of the many aesthetically beautiful corners in the city!

Santa Barbara County Courthouse

As one of the most iconic architecture in this city, the Spanish style courthouse is now also a beautiful historical site in town. The red roof and white wall combination is a classic Spanish Colonial Revival Style architecture, though it’s seen in almost every corner in this city, the Courthouse is definitely a signature here.

The courthouse actually consists of 4 buildings, though they may not be used for the purposes of what they were initially built for, they’ve still got that picturesque looking exteriors.

And if you are also an architecture lover, you would totally appreciate the amount of details included in the design here too - colors may have faded, but the history never will.

Old Mission Santa Barbara

Another Spanish Colonial architecture that has aged over centuries of time, and is still serving the community after more than 200 years from when it was first built.

Also known as “Queen of the Missions”, the mission definitely stands by this name. The chapel has some beautiful and feminine characters that make this place warm, inviting, and attractive all at once.

And if you do decide to pay a visit inside, the church will astound you - consider planning some extra time for yourself here.

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

An afternoon walk in this lively botanic garden is such a pleasant experience. Though we didn’t plan any trips to see the California’s famous poppy fields, we had some surprised yet beautiful encounter here.

The botanic garden has both paved and unpaved paths to cater different preferences. And even though poppies are very often spotted in California, a poppy field with that lush and epic terrain backdrop is definitely something we see for the very first time.

Chromatic Gate

We could all use some bright colors in life, and guess that explains why this has become a popular Instagram photo spot.

Stearns Wharf

Last but not least, we could never miss a walk on this pier when we’re in town - breathtaking views, plenty of restaurants and shop, and maybe even some local big birds.

Hotel of Our Stay: Hotel Santa Barbara

Great upscale hotel experience at a super convenient location, well maintained room, walking distance to tons of restaurants and shops, friendly and quick valet parking service (at cost). Overall great stay!