Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara has natural boundaries that have held it protected like a special jewel in the California coastline. Sailing into its world-class harbor or flying into the local municipal airport, one is greeted by a picturesque collage of white stucco and red tile set amongst lush palms spilling down from the foothills to expansive white beaches. Add the perfect weather and relaxed lifestyle and you have the american version of a mediterranean paradise.
Downtown’s State Street is vibrantly alive with chic restaurants, galleries and boutiques in the north end, and to the south, its wide tiled sidewalks lead to a tasteful tourist area of beachside hotels, nightclubs, more great restaurants, and the pier and marina. A newly gentrified area fondly called “The Funk Zone” offers wineries and micro-breweries with tasting rooms and gourmet pop-up restaurants interspersed with trendy art galleries.
For a town of its size, Santa Barbara is unparalleled in the area of arts and culture. An excellent symphony, ballet company, art museum and two state-of-the-art theaters bring satisfaction to the most refined artistic palates. There are also plenty of engaging activities for families with children, including the Natural History and Maritime Museums, an attractive zoo and year round free festivals held in the numerous
city parks.