Santa Barbara Weekend Guide
Sometimes, a quick escape is all you need—and Santa Barbara never disappoints. Whether you’re here for the food, the sunshine, or a little coastal charm, this town serves it all up with style. We recently spent a weekend soaking in the vibes, indulging in good eats, and checking into one of our favorite hotels. Here’s a quick guide to where to stay, eat, and sip your way through a breezy weekend in SB.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Californian.
Our personal go-to in Santa Barbara. If you’re all about aesthetics, this place is a dream—think Instagrammable rooms with Moroccan-inspired interiors, pops of color, and coastal flair. The onsite restaurant, Blackbird, is one of our favorites, and Goat Tree, the perfect breakfast spot, is just across the street. Bonus: it’s walking distance to the train station and downtown.
Four Seasons The Biltmore.
Looking for timeless elegance? This oceanfront beauty overlooks Butterfly Beach and delivers 5-star everything—from service to setting. It’s the kind of place you check into and instantly feel pampered.
WHERE TO EAT
Blackbird.
Located inside Hotel Californian, this spot brings seasonal, Mediterranean-influenced dishes with inventive cocktails and a stellar local wine list. Don’t miss the brussels sprouts or the tomahawk steak.
Loquita. Spanish tapas, craft cocktails (especially gin), and some of the best paella we’ve had outside of Spain. A vibe for sure. Reservations highly recommended.
Goat Tree.
A local fave for a reason. Perfect for breakfast or brunch with a view — great coffee, fresh fare, and excellent people-watching.
Mony’s.
This spot is all about tacos and salsa. Their lineup of house-made salsas is unmatched. It’s casual, flavorful, and always hits the spot.
Helena Ave Bakery.
Fresh-baked everything. Their Mortadella, Egg & Cheese Sandwich is a lunchtime must, and don’t sleep on their pastries. Bonus: the coffee’s pretty great too.
WHERE TO DRINK
Test Pilot.
A classy tiki bar with a creative drink menu and slushies that pack a punch. Fun, tropical, and totally unexpected.
Satellite.
Snag a patio seat, sip on a natural wine, and soak in the scene. The space-themed decor gives it extra personality—so us.
The Good Lion.
Known for their seasonal craft cocktails and eco-conscious approach. They were the first certified Green Business bar on the Central Coast, and it shows in every beautiful glass.
Whether you’re sneaking in a two-night escape or making a long weekend out of it, Santa Barbara offers just the right mix of relaxed luxury and coastal charm. From taco joints to rooftop cocktails, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Looking to plan your own Santa Barbara getaway? Contact Nomoon Travel for exclusive rates, curated itineraries, and insider perks.
