Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a truly picturesque holiday destination. A blissful haven enveloped by both Los Angeles and San Francisco, this city is an often overlooked source of entertainment. Known to those who have visited as the American Riviera, Santa Barbara is a perfect spot for a family trip. Sunny temperatures, beautiful beaches and multiple attractions all abound for those hoping to experience the holiday of a lifetime. Visitors will appreciate the many different experiences nestled within one location; all will enjoy taking it easy, and those who can will love the many opportunities available for sophistication and indulgence. An established wine producing area, Santa Barbara has also developed an enviable nightlife and a vast selection of fine restaurants for those searching for fine dining. The perfect all round trip, Santa Barbara is the ultimate experience for families and couples alike; all will fall in love with this special and heavenly destination.

Attractions

Santa Barbara is renowned for its unique buildings and architectural style; a vast proportion of the city's structures are clearly influenced by Spanish design, which helps to give the location an exotic and sunny disposition. Those in the area over the weekend should go on a cultural tour of the city with a special emphasis placed on the architectural beauty within the location; [http://www.afsb.org/index_p.html The Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara] runs tours at 10am each Saturday and Sunday. This special opportunity to learn more about the artistry behind the city's structures and Santa Barbara's heritage should not miss the chance to experience this information tour.

Beach lovers will find heaven at Santa Barbara. A vast selection will satisfy all who visit. Butterfly Beach is the ideal place to watch a sunset; this stunning spot is located in one of the most up-market locations in the city. East Beach provides visitors with the opportunity to play a multitude of sports, as well as visit the area's zoo. Visitors will find it easy to spend several days in this stunning location.

[http://www.beachcalifornia.com/carpbch.html Carpinteria State and City Beaches] is home to several gorgeous spots, where all are certain to find an area to suit them. A popular beach with locals, this extensive location is a permanent favourite with all who visit. These beaches may also provide holidaymakers with the opportunity to indulge in a spot of whale watching. Santa Barbara is the perfect place to catch a glimpse of creatures such as Blue Whales, dolphins, Humpback Whales and California Grey Whales, and in addition, is home to a prolific selection of parks waiting to be explored. The Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is a beautiful spot, with animals such as turtles inhabiting the tranquil pond. Elings Park is perfect for the adventurous holidaymaker, with activities such as hang gliding waiting to be experienced. Alameda Park is the perfect place to take children, as the area boasts an enormous play ground. The Botanical Gardens showcase some of the region's most beautiful natural treasures to their best advantage.

The [http://www.sbmuseart.org Santa Barbara Museum of Art] houses an often overlooked but utterly significant collection. Featuring many pieces from across the globe, as well as a special emphasis on national and regional artworks, this is a must for all visitors interested in local and American heritage. There is also a special collection dedicated to Asian works of art, which never fails to astound all who visit.

The [http://www.sbnature.org Museum of Natural History] is a massive testament to the surrounding area's natural heritage. Exhibitions feature pieces on animals, as well as the nation's plant life.

Shopping

All will enjoy strolling around the quaint and charming shops which Santa Barbara has to offer. Unique boutiques greet those who visit, providing an ample range of special treats to take back home. Holidaymakers will enjoy treating those back at home, or indeed, themselves! Arcades can be located across the city centre, all of which boast multiple opportunities for retail therapy. Those with a sweet tooth will love a trip to the Great Pacific Ice Cream Company, which serves a selection of delicious flavours at their parlour on Stearns Wharf. Visitors can also be reassured that in America no one is ever very far away from a mall; here shoppers can indulge in the enormous range of stores available for browsing.

Nightlife

Santa Barbara is home to an extensive wealth of special and luxurious restaurants. Those hoping to treat themselves will not be disappointed. A perfect feast of traditional American dishes can be enjoyed at Downey's, an up market and popular choice for those hoping to sample authentic local cuisine. Rodney's is an impressive steakhouse, serving the juiciest steaks in the city. Those hoping to indulge in more exotic dishes are sure to be taken aback by the beautiful Miro, an idyllic eatery specialising in Spanish cuisine. Arigato Sushi serves the best in Japanese flavours and Olio e Limone will provide all who visit with an unforgettable feast of Italian dishes. Brophy Bros serves a multitude of stunning seafood creations whilst Carlitos will satisfy those looking for something spicier with their range of Mexican dishes.

The range of evening entertainment in the city is extensive and sure to please all who visit. Whether it be cocktails, a cool glass of wine or a simple, satisfying pint, Santa Barbara is certain to have an appropriate bar. Favourite destinations include Sevilla, the Brewhouse, Madison's and the Paradise Caf�. Those hoping to extend their trip into the early hours of the morning are sure to appreciate the range of nightclubs within the city.

Tourist Information

Santa Barbara Visitors Bureau1601 Anacapa StreetSanta BarbaraCA 93101

• Tel: 805-966-9222
• Website: [ttp://www.santabarbaraca.com www.santabarbaraca.com]

Airport

Santa Barbara Airport serves over 300 destinations across the globe. Situated close to the city centre, most visitors choose this airport instead of Los Angeles Airport for its convenience and cheap flights. Methods of travelling into town are various and most are pleasantly surprised by the attractiveness of the airport which, in keeping with much of Santa Barbara, resembles Spanish architecture. For more information potential holidaymakers should visit [http://www.flysba.com Santa Barbara Airport] or the websites of individual carriers.