Itinerary for 3 day trip to Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is such a charming destination with its beautiful coastline, vibrant culture, and delicious food. Let’s dive into a delightful 3-day itinerary that includes sightseeing, walking, restaurants, and a little excursion to Ojai.

Day 1: Explore Santa Barbara

Morning:

Breakfast at : Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast. Their French toast and fresh pastries are a must-try!
: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll to the iconic . The architecture is stunning, and you can climb the clock tower for panoramic views of the city.

Midday:

: Just a short walk away, this museum features a fantastic collection of American and European art. It’s a great way to soak in some culture.
Lunch at : Grab a casual lunch at this local favorite. Their charbroiled burgers are delicious!

Afternoon:

: Head down to the waterfront and take a walk along . You can enjoy the ocean breeze, check out the shops, and maybe even spot some sea lions!
: Take a stroll around the harbor and enjoy the views. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard.

Evening:

Dinner at : For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at in the . Their farm-to-table dishes are fantastic, and the atmosphere is lively.
: After dinner, explore the , an artsy neighborhood filled with galleries, wine tasting rooms, and street art. It’s a great place to unwind and soak in the local vibe.

Day 2: Day Trip to Ojai

Morning:

Breakfast at Your Hotel or Café: Start your day with a light breakfast before heading to Ojai.
Drive to Ojai: It’s about a 30-minute drive from Santa Barbara. Enjoy the scenic views along the way!

Midday:

: If you’re there on Sunday, don’t miss the ! It’s a great place to sample local produce, artisanal goods, and grab a bite to eat.
Lunch at : This cozy spot offers delicious sandwiches and salads, perfect for a midday refuel.

Afternoon:

Explore Ojai: Take a leisurely walk around the charming downtown area. Check out the local shops, art galleries, and the beautiful .
: If you’re up for a little hike, head to for stunning views of the valley. It’s a peaceful spot to relax and take in the scenery.

Evening:

Dinner at : Enjoy a lovely dinner at this romantic restaurant known for its farm-fresh ingredients and beautiful outdoor seating.
Return to Santa Barbara: Head back to Santa Barbara and relax at your hotel or take a stroll along the beach to end your day.

Day 3: Beach Day and Local Culture

Morning:

Breakfast at : Start your day with a delicious pastry and coffee at this local gem.
: Spend your morning soaking up the sun at East Beach or West Beach. You can relax, swim, or even rent a bike to ride along the beachfront path.

Midday:

Lunch at : Enjoy a casual lunch right on the beach. Their fish tacos are a crowd favorite!
: After lunch, take a short walk to the . It’s small but charming, and you can easily spend a couple of hours exploring.

Afternoon:

: Visit the historic Mission, known as the "Queen of the Missions." The gardens are beautiful, and the history is fascinating.
Walk through the Botanic Garden: If you have time, the is a lovely place to explore California native plants and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Evening:

Dinner at : For your final dinner, head to , where you can enjoy delicious Spanish-inspired dishes with a view of the ocean.
Sunset at : End your trip with a stunning sunset at . It’s the perfect way to wrap up your Santa Barbara adventure!

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary filled with walking, sightseeing, and delicious food. Enjoy your trip to Santa Barbara! 🌞🌊🍷