This blog post is all about how to spend 1 day in Santa Barbara, California.
Looking back on my very recent West Coast Road Trip, one stop that really stands out is Santa Barbara.
With its Spanish-inspired architecture, palm-lined streets, and a laid-back coastal vibe, this charming city perfectly captures California’s relaxed yet refined atmosphere.
Even though we only had 1 day in Santa Barbara, I was surprised by just how much we managed to see, eat, and do.
Whether you’re road tripping up the Pacific Coast Highway, taking a weekend getaway, or just passing through, Santa Barbara is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and stay longer than planned.
Here’s exactly how I recommend spending 1 day in Santa Barbara, based on my own trip.
RELATED West Coast Road Trip blog posts to read:
- Hotel Review: Best Western Plus Santa Barbara, California
- ‘Biblical’ Oasis Concert Review: Rose Bowl Stadium, Los Angeles
I’m creating a ton of content around our West Coast Road Trip, so if you’re planning your own adventure, you’re in the right place! I’ll be sharing detailed blog posts, YouTube vlogs showcasing each stop along the way, short-form videos on TikTok, and posting round-ups over on Instagram.
And just like I did with my East Coast Road Trip guide, I’ll be releasing a full PDF eBook packed with everything you need to plan the ultimate West Coast road trip.
So keep an eye out as there’s so much more to come!
How to Spend 1 Day in Santa Barbara, California
Before I jump into exactly how to spend 1 day in Santa Barbara, let me tell you why this city completely stole my heart.
Nicknamed the “American Riviera,” it’s got the perfect mix of relaxed beach vibes and a little bit of luxury. With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Santa Ynez Mountains on the other, the scenery alone is enough reason to stop here.
Palm trees line the streets, the beaches are golden, and everywhere you turn there’s another photo-worthy view.
The city itself feels special too. Thanks to its Spanish-style architecture (think white walls, red-tiled roofs, and Mediterranean courtyards) downtown has this charming, almost European feel.
The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is one of the prettiest buildings I’ve ever seen, and even just wandering around town feels like sightseeing.
And then there’s the food. If you only have 1 day in Santa Barbara, you’ll wish you had longer, because this place is heaven for foodies.
Fresh seafood, local produce, incredible tacos, and wine from the nearby Santa Ynez Valley. It’s impossible to go wrong here.
Pair that with year-round sunshine (seriously, they get over 300 days a year), a buzzing arts and shopping scene, and neighbourhoods like the Funk Zone full of cool galleries and wine bars, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect California stop.
Santa Barbara really does have a bit of everything, and it’s one of those places you’ll never regret adding to your road trip.
Where is Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city located in Southern California, about 95 miles northwest of Los Angeles.
Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, it’s often called the “American Riviera” thanks to its Mediterranean climate, red-tiled roofs, and stunning beaches.
The city is small enough to explore in a day but still has a wide variety of attractions, from cultural landmarks and historic missions to wine tasting rooms and boutique shops.
Its unique blend of Spanish colonial history, surf-town vibes, and upscale living makes it one of the most picturesque stops along the California coast.
How to Get to Santa Barbara
Getting to Santa Barbara is part of the fun, especially if you’re road tripping along Highway 1 or the 101.
How to Get to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles
It’s about a 2-hour drive (depending on traffic) heading north along the Pacific Coast. This stretch of the drive is incredibly scenic, with ocean views and rolling hills.
We had flown into LAX that morning and drove straight from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara along the Pacific Coast. The views were insane!
How to Get to Santa Barbara from San Francisco
If you’re coming from the north, expect around a 5-hour drive down the 101, or longer if you take the coastal Highway 1 route.
How to Get to Santa Barbara by Train
Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner connects Santa Barbara with both Los Angeles and San Diego, offering a stress-free and scenic journey.
How to Get to Santa Barbara by Plane
Santa Barbara has a small regional airport (SBA), but most visitors fly into LAX and drive up.
No matter how you arrive, the journey itself is beautiful and sets the tone for your 1 day in Santa Barbara.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara enjoys mild, Mediterranean-style weather year-round, so there’s really no bad time to visit.
However, depending on what you want to do during your 1 day in Santa Barbara, certain seasons might suit you better:
- Spring (March – May): Pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June – August): Perfect for beach days, but this is also peak tourist season. Accommodation prices can be higher.
- Fall (September – November): Warm, sunny days and cooler evenings. Arguably the best time for outdoor activities like hiking or wine tasting.
- Winter (December – February): Mild compared to much of the U.S., but slightly cooler. A great time for quieter getaways.
We visited in the summer (late August), and it was perfect for strolling around the city, eating outdoors, and taking in the views without heavy crowds.
It was hot, but the peak summer crowds had started to dwindle so it was relatively quiet and easy to dine/get around.
Breakfast at Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery
The perfect way to start 1 day in Santa Barbara is with breakfast at Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery.
This cozy spot is a local favourite, serving hearty breakfasts and fresh-baked pastries in a relaxed setting.
I went straight for the pancakes, and they were everything you want from a breakfast stack — fluffy, golden, and topped with fresh fruit and syrup.
The menu also has healthier options like avocado toast, granola, and fresh fruit, but honestly, the pancakes were irresistible.
Pair them with a strong cup of coffee, and you’ll be fuelled up and ready to take on the day.
Oh, and make sure to try their scones! They’re famous so we made sure to share one for dessert.
5 Things to Do in Santa Barbara
Even if you only have 1 day in Santa Barbara, there’s still plenty to pack into your itinerary. Here are five must-do activities:
1. Visit the Old Mission Santa Barbara
Known as the “Queen of the Missions,” this historic site dates back to 1786 and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
The Spanish colonial architecture, rose gardens, and mountain backdrop make it a beautiful place to explore.
2. Stroll Along State Street
State Street is the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, lined with boutiques, cafés, art galleries, and restaurants.
It’s a great place for shopping, people-watching, and soaking up the local vibe.
3. Explore Stearns Wharf
Stretching out into the Pacific, Stearns Wharf is the oldest working wooden wharf in California.
It’s home to shops, restaurants, and an aquarium, plus some of the best ocean views in the city.
4. Relax at East Beach
If you’re craving a bit of sun and sand, East Beach is one of the city’s most popular stretches of coastline.
The wide sandy beach and calm waters make it ideal for relaxing or taking a short walk along the palm-lined promenade.
5. Check Out the Santa Barbara County Courthouse
It might sound unusual, but this courthouse is stunning. Built in Spanish-Moorish style, it features hand-painted ceilings, ornate tiles, and a clock tower that offers panoramic views of the city and ocean.
Lunch at Cold Spring Tavern
For lunch, we drove out to the famous Cold Spring Tavern, located in the mountains just outside Santa Barbara.
This rustic tavern dates back to the 1860s and was originally a stagecoach stop. Today, it’s known for its hearty food and unique atmosphere.
We ordered their famous tri-tip sandwich: smoky, tender, and served with a side of rustic charm.
Eating here feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by log cabins and pine trees. It’s worth the short drive for both the food and the experience.
You can see my TikTok review of our tri-tip sandwich here!
Shopping in Santa Barbara
One of the best parts of spending 1 day in Santa Barbara is wandering its different shopping districts, each with its own character.
Paseo Nuevo Mall
An outdoor shopping centre with well-known brands and plenty of sunny courtyards to stop and rest.
Local Boutiques on State Street
This is the place for one-of-a-kind shops, from coastal-inspired fashion to artisan jewellery and home décor.
Santa Barbara Public Market
A foodie’s paradise where you can pick up gourmet olive oils, wine, and locally made treats. We took a stroll through here to get out of the hot sun, but didn’t end up trying anything.
The Funk Zone
This is one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara, located just a few blocks from the beach.
Formerly an old warehouse district, it’s now full of art galleries, surf shops, wine tasting rooms, and colourful street murals.
We loved strolling through here! It felt like the perfect mix of bohemian creativity and California cool. It’s a great place to shop for local art or grab a glass of wine before dinner.
Dinner at La Super-Rica Taqueria
To wrap up 1 day in Santa Barbara, there’s no better spot for dinner than La Super-Rica Taqueria.
This unassuming taco stand gained worldwide fame after Julia Child declared it her favourite place to eat in town.
We ordered a mix of different tacos, all freshly made and bursting with flavour. The tortillas were soft and warm, the fillings perfectly seasoned, and the whole meal was delicious yet affordable.
Don’t be surprised if there’s a line, but it’s worth the wait!
If you want turn your 1 day in Santa Barbara into 2 days in Santa Barbara, I’ve got just the hotel recommendation for you.
Where to Stay in Santa Barbara: Best Western Plus
If you’re lucky enough to spend more than 1 day in Santa Barbara, I highly recommend staying at the Best Western Plus Santa Barbara.
I have a full blog post reviewing our stay at Best Western Plus Santa Barbara which you can read here, but I’ll quickly summarise below.
We stayed here at the very start of our West Coast road trip, and it was a perfect base.
The rooms are spacious, the location is convenient for exploring, and there’s a pool to relax in after a day of sightseeing.
It’s a comfortable and affordable option compared to some of the pricier resorts in town, making it a great choice for road-trippers.
Quick Checklist: 1 Day in Santa Barbara
If you only have a short time, here’s a simple checklist itinerary for 1 day in Santa Barbara that you can follow:
- Start with breakfast at Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery – fuel up with pancakes and coffee.
- Visit Old Mission Santa Barbara – explore the historic Spanish mission and gardens.
- Stroll along State Street – browse boutiques, cafés, and galleries.
- Head to Stearns Wharf – enjoy the ocean views and seaside charm.
- Relax at East Beach – take a walk or spend an hour soaking up the sun.
- Stop for lunch at Cold Spring Tavern – try the famous tri-tip sandwich.
- Check out the Santa Barbara County Courthouse – don’t miss the view from the clock tower.
- Go shopping – explore Paseo Nuevo, State Street boutiques, and the Funk Zone.
- Dinner at La Super-Rica Taqueria – end the day with tacos at this iconic spot.
- Stay overnight at Best Western Plus Santa Barbara (if you’re continuing your road trip the next morning like us).
1 Day in Santa Barbara Day Trip Itinerary
Our 1 day in Santa Barbara was the perfect mix of history, food, shopping, and coastal relaxation.
It’s the kind of city where you could easily spend a week, but even just a single day leaves you with lasting memories.
From breakfast at Jeannine’s to tacos at La Super-Rica, every moment felt quintessentially Californian.
If you’re planning a West Coast road trip, make sure Santa Barbara is on your itinerary. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
I’m sharing loads of content from our West Coast road trip: from itineraries and food guides to hotel reviews and travel tips. You can already check out my East Coast Road Trip Guide eBook for inspiration, and stay tuned for the full West Coast version coming soon.
Don’t forget to follow along on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram for videos and behind-the-scenes updates!
RELATED West Coast Road Trip blog posts to read:
- Hotel Review: Best Western Plus Santa Barbara, California
- ‘Biblical’ Oasis Concert Review: Rose Bowl Stadium, Los Angeles
By Orlagh Shanks
Orlagh Shanks is the Editor of Orlagh Claire, an award-winning travel and lifestyle blog.
After working in the PR & Influencer Marketing industry, Orlagh quit her job to travel Asia for 12 months and moved to Sydney, Australia where she is now a full-time travel blogger and content creator sharing travel tips and recommendations for all 30 of the countries she’s visited so far.
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