Montecito

Day Trips

Arrive in Montecito and check into a luxurious resort or cozy inn. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, where you can savor farm-to-table dishes while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens of Lotusland, exploring its diverse plant collections.

Head to the pristine Butterfly Beach for some sunbathing and relaxation by the ocean. Enjoy a picnic lunch with local wines and artisanal cheeses, basking in the sun's rays and the gentle sound of waves. Afterward, explore the charming boutiques and art galleries along Coast Village Road.

Indulge in a fine dining experience at one of Montecito's acclaimed restaurants, enjoying fresh seafood or gourmet California cuisine. After dinner, take a sunset walk along the coastal bluffs, capturing stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Wind down with a cocktail at a cozy bar, recapping the day's adventures.

Start the day with a guided tour of the historic Lotusland, diving deeper into its botanical wonders and history. Enjoy breakfast in the area, perhaps trying a delightful pastry and a specialty coffee. Spend time in nearby Santa Barbara at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, exploring modern and contemporary works.

Grab lunch in the Funk Zone, a vibrant area filled with wineries and artistic flair. Try some local wines as you hop between tasting rooms, immersing yourself in Santa Barbara's wine culture. Take some time to explore unique shops and street art, soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Return to Montecito for a leisurely dinner at a beachfront restaurant, soaking in the ocean views. As evening settles in, consider joining a local event or performance at the Lobero Theatre if an exciting show is on. Conclude your day by enjoying a glass of wine on your terrace, relishing the serene surroundings.

Start the day with an invigorating hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains, enjoying breathtaking views of the coastline and valley. After your hike, reward yourself with breakfast at a charming local diner, indulging in hearty breakfast favorites. Take your time to connect with nature and appreciate the stunning surroundings.

Embark on a horseback riding tour through scenic trails, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful landscapes. After your ride, enjoy a picnic lunch with fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers' markets. Visit the nearby Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, discovering native plants and stunning vistas.

Dine outdoors at a farm-to-table restaurant, savoring dishes made from seasonal produce. As night falls, take a night-time drive to observe the stars and enjoy the clear skies of Montecito. Either retire early or find a cozy spot for a late-night dessert and coffee as you reflect on the day's adventures.

Spend a relaxing morning at Montecito's Butterfly Beach, taking in the sunrise view over the ocean. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at a quaint beachside café, where you can listen to the waves while sipping on fresh juice. Consider joining a beach yoga class to invigorate both your body and spirit.

Continue your day at the beach with paddleboarding or kayaking, exploring the coastline and marine life. Have a casual lunch at a nearby taco stand, sampling delicious local seafood tacos. Enjoy sunbathing or engaging in beach games, making the most of your seaside day.

As the sun sets, opt for a beach bonfire to end your day on a high note, with s'mores and fun stories shared in good company. Afterward, dine at a seaside restaurant that specializes in fresh catches and local cuisine. Stroll along the beach under the stars, savoring the tranquility of the evening.

Begin your day with breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant, a beloved local spot known for its pastries and brunch selections. Experience a cooking class or local farm tour to learn about Montecito's farm-to-table philosophy. This hands-on activity will connect you with local producers and provide an immersive culinary experience.

Enjoy the lunch you prepared during your cooking class or explore more local eateries to further appreciate the culinary scene. Visit the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse, where you can enjoy stunning architecture and view the city from its tower. Relax in the nearby Alameda Park, savoring the ambiance of local life.

Head back to Montecito for a casual dinner at a charming bistro, where local ingredients shine in the dishes. Attend a local event, such as a concert in the park, immersing yourself in the community vibe. End the night with a leisurely walk through the upscale neighborhoods, admiring the beautiful architecture and gardens.

Start your morning with breakfast at a local café before heading to the nearby Santa Barbara Art Museum. Spend time exploring various exhibits and allowing the art to inspire you. Take a moment in the museum's garden, finding tranquility amidst the art and nature.

For lunch, try a popular sandwich shop, enjoying fresh ingredients for a midday boost. Opt for an afternoon spa treatment at a luxurious spa, unwinding and pampering yourself to rejuvenate for the rest of your trip. Enjoy some downtime poolside, catching up on reading or soaking up the sun.

Dine at a renowned restaurant known for its seasonal menu and unique wines, enjoying a lovely evening atmosphere. Post-dinner, take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, where the mountainous terrain meets the ocean. Spend the night stargazing from a stunning viewpoint, enveloped in the magic of the night.

Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before embarking on a wine-tasting tour in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley. Join a local wine tour company that offers guided tastings at selected vineyards. Get a taste of the area's renowned wines and learn about the winemaking process.

Savor a picnic lunch at one of the vineyards, relishing local cheese, charcuterie, and bread paired with exquisite wines. Continue your wine tour, visiting different wineries to sample a variety of vintages and find your favorites. Allow the scenic vineyard views to enhance your experience as you explore further.

Return to Montecito for dinner at a wine-centric restaurant that highlights local wine pairings with each dish. As evening falls, enjoy a cozy night by the fireplace at your accommodation, sipping on your picked wines from the vineyard. Reflect on the day, feeling connected to the land and its rich offerings.

Enjoy breakfast at a local café known for its organic options before setting off on an exploration of the coastline. Visit the picturesque Santa Barbara Harbor, where you can watch the boats come and go. Take a guided boat tour to see the coastal scenery from the water, creating unforgettable memories.

Stop for lunch at a harbor-side seafood shack, indulging in fresh catches and local flavors. Spend the afternoon visiting Stearns Wharf, exploring shopfronts, and sampling local treats, such as ice cream or saltwater taffy. Capture photos of the stunning seascapes and coastal wildlife surrounding you.

Wind down your coastal exploration with dinner at a restaurant with ocean views, watching the sunset as you dine. Afterward, take a romantic stroll along the beach, feeling the sand beneath your feet. Relax for the evening at your accommodation, enjoying the sound of waves softly crashing in the background.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your favorite Montecito spot, savoring every bite as you reflect on your trip. Take a final stroll through nearby parks, absorbing the calm beauty of your surroundings. If time permits, visit a local market for some last-minute artisan gifts or gourmet treats.

Wrap up your Montecito experience with a casual lunch at a café that you haven't yet tried. Journey to Santa Barbara for any last sights, perhaps visiting the iconic Mission Santa Barbara. Once you've soaked in the historical significance, make your way back to gather your belongings.

As you prepare to leave, take a moment to soak in the final views of the California coastline. Depart with beautiful memories and a sense of peace after experiencing the thrilling adventures and relaxation Montecito offered. Reflect on the vibrant artistry, culinary delights, and natural beauty as you head home.