TAKE A DEEP BREATH
Hug the Pacific coast and head north from LA to Santa Barbara, writes
From Universal Studios and the Hollywood Walk of Fame to Santa Monica Pier and Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles is packed with enough attractions to last a lifetime. If, however, you find yourself craving the wide open road and salty ocean air, head north to Santa Barbara for a day of history, culture and white-sand beaches.
Getting there
Although transit is often just a way to get from one city to the next, when you take the Pacific Coast Highway, the journey itself is a delight. Famously one of the best road trips in the US, this coastal road boasts stunning views, dramatic cliffs and endless horizons. But, if driving on the right-hand side of the road for two hours is a little too daunting, the Amtrak Pacific
See this
Surfliner train is a speedy alternative.
Walk here
Built in 1872, Stearns Wharf may be one of the more busy attractions in the city but well worth the stroll. With several restaurants, the museum of natural history and boutique stalls, it’s a charming spot for a quick bite or takeaway coffee as you take in the view of the coast. Wander far enough into the Santa Barbara Courthouse and you may just come across the spectacular Mural Room. Painted by Californian artist Daniel Sayre Groesbeck, the room is wallpapered with 380sq m of canvas artwork, illustrating the history of the Santa Barbara area. Commissioned in 1929, the room took four months to paint, earning Groesbeck the tidy sum of US$9000.
Try this
Make the most of the city’s rich history and stunning architecture with the Red Tile Walking Tour. The free, self-guided tour takes you on a fascinating circuit of Santa Barbara’s most iconic landmarks, like the mission district and Spanish-style public library. Collect one of the maps from the visitor centre, or download online and enjoy taking your time on the solo tour.
Shop here
For the best spot to shop till you drop, or browse to your heart’s content, make your way to the Funk Zone. As you can guess, this district is a mecca of quirky boutiques and shops located in converted warehouses and graffiti-decorated buildings. From artisan clothing and vintage furniture to contemporary art and boutique wineries, Funk Zone has it all.
Drink here
With more than 30 wineries around the city, it’s tough choosing the best spot for an afternoon tipple. But when it comes to a spot with unbeatable views, it doesn’t get better than Deep Sea Tasting Room on Stearns Wharf, the classy joint features an impressive range of handcrafted boutique wines, perfectly accompanied by a view of the sunset over the ocean.
Eat here
Dare to venture a few blocks away from the main drag of Slate St and you’ll be rewarded with the gem that is Barbareno. Operating with a farm-to-fork ethos, this Mexican-inspired downtown eatery is a dream for healthy travellers and their meatloving friends, serving up fresh plant-based dishes alongside hearty steaks.