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North America

Santa Barbara, United States

Experience the American Riviera where Spanish colonial architecture meets world-class wine country and pristine beaches backed by dramatic mountains.

Quick Facts

Weather Range

60-75 (16-24)

Currency

USD

Language

English

Time Zone

PST (UTC-8)

Overview

Santa Barbara embodies refined California coastal living with its distinctive Spanish colonial architecture, Mediterranean climate, and sophisticated wine culture. The city's white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs create a cohesive aesthetic unique among American cities, while nearby Santa Ynez Valley produces world-class wines. State Street connects the waterfront to the foothills, lined with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants showcasing farm-to-table cuisine. Miles of sandy beaches and the historic Stearns Wharf complete this upscale yet relaxed destination.

Top Sights

  • Mission Santa Barbara
Queen of the Missions' with stunning Spanish colonial architecture and gardens. The 1786 mission anchors Santa Barbara's architectural identity.
  • State Street
Main thoroughfare with shopping and dining from mountains to sea. Palm-lined boulevard connects downtown to waterfront.
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Spanish-Moorish masterpiece with observation tower offering panoramic views. The 1929 courthouse ranks among America's most beautiful government buildings.
  • Stearns Wharf
Historic wooden pier with shops and aquarium since 1872. California's oldest working wharf extends into the Pacific.
  • Funk Zone
Arts district with wine tasting rooms and murals in converted warehouses. Industrial buildings now house galleries and craft breweries.
  • Butterfly Beach
Upscale beach in ritzy Montecito favored by celebrities. The quiet strand offers sunset views without crowds.

Neighborhoods

State Street Corridor

Downtown shopping and restaurant district. Spanish colonial architecture creates cohesive aesthetic rare in American cities.

Funk Zone

Artsy waterfront with wine bars and galleries. The industrial area transformed into Santa Barbara's hippest neighborhood.

Montecito

Ultra-wealthy enclave with celebrity estates hidden behind hedges. Oprah's neighborhood features jaw-dropping real estate.

Mesa

Clifftop neighborhood with ocean views and beach access. Residential area offers locals respite from tourist downtown.

Shore Things Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.

Lotusland and Mission

Visit Santa Barbara’s Lotusland gardens and historic Old Mission on a guided half-day tour with free time to explore.

Montecito Stars & History

Spend an afternoon peeking into the world of the rich and famous in Montecito, a favorite retreat for Hollywood stars.

Reagan Presidential Library & Museum Tour

Attention history buffs! Visit the Reagan Presidential Library and Museum and explore exhibits on Ronald Reagan's life and presidency.

Santa Barbara & Los Olivos Food & Wine Tour

Enjoy a taste of California on this tour through Santa Barbara and Los Olivos, with a visit to a vineyard and a nationally renowned restaurant.
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Shore Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.
Worry-free excursions powered by Viator

Lotusland and Mission

Visit Santa Barbara’s Lotusland gardens and historic Old Mission on a guided half-day tour with free time to explore.

Montecito Stars & History

Spend an afternoon peeking into the world of the rich and famous in Montecito, a favorite retreat for Hollywood stars.

Reagan Presidential Library & Museum Tour

Attention history buffs! Visit the Reagan Presidential Library and Museum and explore exhibits on Ronald Reagan's life and presidency.

Santa Barbara & Los Olivos Food & Wine Tour

Enjoy a taste of California on this tour through Santa Barbara and Los Olivos, with a visit to a vineyard and a nationally renowned restaurant.
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Map

Quick Facts

Weather Range

60-75 (16-24)

Currency

USD

Language

English

Time Zone

PST (UTC-8)

Ready to explore Santa Barbara?

Discover voyages that visit this amazing destination.

Upcoming voyages that visit Santa Barbara

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