Every time I visit Santa Barbara, I realize why it’s so difficult to leave. The unending beach, warm weather, and relaxed lifestyle are starkly different than San Francisco and extremely welcoming to anyone and everyone who ventures here.
In the last four years, I’ve come to Santa Barbara numerous times. Sometimes for work, but mostly to visit my younger brother who attended UCSB—past tense now because as of this weekend, he GRADUATED; cue terrified facial expressions over the fact that baby bro is officially a real adult. What.
As we all know, graduation is a nostalgic time as much as it is a celebratory one. In the last four years, my brother found lifelong friends (and I guess also a degree). For me, I discovered a town that plays into my love for the outdoors and the water perfectly. This weekend, I no longer felt like a tourist. I spent my time eating at my favorite spots, going on long runs in the hills (marathon training is still in full gear), and exercising my newly minted scuba certification to go diving in the Channel Islands! It was rejuvenating and dare I say it, felt like home.
I’m extremely proud of my brother for graduating college and can’t wait to see what he does next (if you’re reading this, come to SF :D). For the rest of you, I’ve put together a guide on my favorite spots in Santa Barbara. I suggest taking at least 3 full days to explore this gorgeous town. It’s a 5.5 hour drive from San Francisco and completely worth it.
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Bouchon { One of the nicest restaurants in SB and good for a special occasion – in our case college graduation. I ate my way through a rack of lamb, scallops, and molten lava cake. My favorite though was the bread and butter; the butter they use is INSANE. }
Art Museum of UCSB { This place is tucked away on campus. It’s a great way to spend half an hour perusing through interesting modern exhibits from photography to architecture to spoken word videos. }
French Press { There are multiple locations, but I like the one on Storke Road for the patio. Get the iced condensed milk latte and the canele. }
The Lark { Another fancier restaurant. I enjoy going for drinks and dessert as both are done well here. The chocolate tres leches cake and cheesecake profiteroles are delicious. }
Blenders in the Grass { No SB trip is complete without a smoothie from Blenders. I usually get an energy smoothie with bee pollen. }
Cajun Kitchen Café { Don’t underestimate this unassuming place. The food is solid and the perfect hangover. They don’t take reservations so come on time. }
Backyard Bowls { My acai bowl staple. I love the island bowl and get it nearly every morning when I visit. }
Breakfast Culture Club { A garage-looking place that has tons of natural light, a great wifi signal, and an awesome cappuccino. I usually perch here to do work during the day. There is also a local clothing store attached to it so when I take a break, I can shop. }
Brasil Arts Café { A good introduction to Brazilian food, as told by my Brazilian friend who I ate here with. I loved the pao de queijo and shrimp pastries. }
Anacapa Island { I did three dives here all around the island. The water was very manageable, but I also rented a 7mm wetsuit and a hood. If you’re interested in going, book a dive through Raptor Dive Charters. }
Spencer Makenzie’s { The ultimate fish taco place in Ventura. I got the famous fish taco and calamari taco served Brooklyn style with sweet chili sauce. }
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