Morning

Early Start. Head to Mission Market, the coffee shop at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, for a breakfast that has something to offer for everyone in the family. Fuel up on pastries and a selection of breakfast items (along with coffee for the adults) before you leave for your morning excursion.    

Midday

Set Sail. Take a jaunt down to the Santa Barbara Harbor for a ride aboard what may just be the region’s most adorable water taxi, known affectionately as Lil’ Toot. The 15-minute narrated boat rides between the harbor and Stearns Wharf provide stunning ocean views as well as transportation to a destination worth exploring. Enjoy souvenir shopping, delicious seafood and incredible scenery along the waterfront before your return trip.

Afternoon

Scream for Ice Cream. McConnell’s may be well-loved at all their scoop shops in California (and in grocery stores around the country), but it all started in Santa Barbara. The company began in 1949 and is still in its original dairy. Visit its large location on State Street to get a taste of the iconic ice cream, filled with local ingredients, like strawberries and rhubarb.

Evening

Dinner Al Fresco. There may be few things more quintessentially Californian than enjoying an oceanside feast outdoors. Cap off your first day in Santa Barbara with dinner at the waterfront, where family friendly options are aplenty. You can’t go wrong at Brophy Brothers Clam Bar & Restaurant, where clams and oysters are served alongside kid favorites like burgers and fries.

Morning

Nordic Delight. Vacation is the time to splurge, and what better way to start the day than with a fresh pastry just out of the oven? Andersen’s Restaurant & Bakery has been beloved by Santa Barbara locals for over 40 years for their European and Nordic menu, heavy on the house-made baked goods. Settle in for a charming breakfast on their outdoor patio in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, including a traditional Danish kringle or butter ring.

Midday

Zootopia. The Santa Barbara Zoo is home to 146 species of mammals, reptiles, birds and insects with over 500 exhibited in naturalistic habitats. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in the fun, from feeding the giraffes to exploring Kallman Family Play Area to climbing the Rock Wall.  

Afternoon

Wheels Up. A great way to explore downtown Santa Barbara and the harbor is by bike. Rent them for the afternoon for the whole family from Wheel Fun Rentals, and use their self-guided tour map to check out the city from a new vantage point.

Evening

Outdoor Dining. Did someone say pizza party? The younger members of your family will love the brick-oven flatbreads at Lulio at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara while the adults can choose from a selection of thoughtfully prepared seafood dishes, salads and Mediterranean-inspired favorites. Enjoy the breeze off the ocean while dining on the waterfront terrace (the wood fireplace and covered, heated patio means you can enjoy it year-round.)

Morning

Whale Watching. Head out on a morning cruise to see the magnificent creatures off the coast of Santa Barbara and around the Channel Islands. Depending on the season, you might see dolphins, humpback whales, blue whales or gray whales. The cruise generally takes a few hours, so make sure everyone in your party brings a hat and sunblock along with their cameras and binoculars.

Afternoon

Late Lunch. The sun begins to lower in the sky, signaling that it’s the perfect time for an afternoon meal and a dip in the pool. Head to SunBar by the Main Pools for a family-favorite, hand-held treat – and maybe some poolside drinks for Mom and Dad.

Evening

Curtain Rising. The Lobero is California’s oldest continuously operating theater, having been founded in 1873. It was rebuilt in 1924 and is considered one of the architectural gems of the city. Drop the kids off at the Ritz Kids/Ambassadors of the Environment Center – where they’ll enjoy activities, movies, meals, and more – and enjoy a parent’s night out at the theater.

Morning

Caffeine Fix. What happens when two former professional cyclists fall in love and open a coffeehouse? Handlebar Coffee, which has gained an enthusiastic following since opening in 2011. They roast their own beans every week and bring in fresh pastries and bagels daily. Enjoy your breakfast outside in the historic Presidio State Park across the street.

Midday

Clang Clang. Keep the focus on history with a trolley tour through downtown Santa Barbara. The 90-minute tour leaves from 1 Garden St. daily at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m., granting ample time to sightsee and explore. A particularly scenic stop is at East beach which has a panoramic view of the mountains rising up from behind the sand.

Afternoon

Wharf Walk.  Stearns Wharf is a highlight of Santa Barbara, with a mix of shops, restaurants and activities. Not only is Stearns Wharf the oldest working pier in California, but it is also the top attraction in the city. Get treats at Mother Stearns Candy shop or ice cream at the Great Pacific Ice Cream Company, then stroll the pier.

Under the Sea. Also on Stearns Wharf is the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, which takes a deep dive into the region with interactive exhibitions and the chance to interact with sea creatures. Those with an appetite for adventure won’t want to miss the live shark touch pool.  

Evening

Seafood Feast. As the sun sets, settle in for a seafood dinner at the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company. The menu focuses on simply prepared, fresh-from-the ocean options like crab cakes, cioppino in a bread bowl and a Santa Barbara shrimp cocktail. Get there early to avoid a potential wait for a bigger group.

Morning

Day Break. For those who are serious about donuts, look no further than Hook & Press. With options on the menu like gourmet donuts, seasonal delights, and delicious breakfast sandwiches, you can expect something to please every palate. After their bellies are full, take a peek at the famed turtle fountain that sits in the center of the courtyard.

Midday

Beach Time. No visit to Santa Barbara is complete without time on the beach (or at the pool for those who prefer their water without sand). Choose from two pools and a two-mile long beach at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara for a fun-filled day of sun, surf and play.  

Afternoon

The Mission. Old Mission Santa Barbara was established in 1786 and continues to be a vital part of the community. Still home to Franciscan friars and an active parish, the Old Mission is a landmark and historic site worth visiting for the architecture, history and 12 acres of landscaped gardens that surround it. Ask the concierge to arrange a picnic to take along with you and enjoy a family lunch on the mission’s lawn, next to the stunning rose garden.

Evening

Big Finish. Every great trip must come to an end, but why not go out with a bang at a top-notch dinner at Marisella? Chef Danny Grant blends Amalfi Coast tradition with the richness of California’s land and sea. Savor handmade pastas, wood-grilled seafood and meats, and expertly crafted martinis in a beautifully appointed setting overlooking the Pacific.  

Morning

First, Coffee. Start your Saturday with a carefully brewed cup of coffee from locally roasted beans at Dune Coffee. The team behind the café also runs Dune Coffee Roasters, ensuring the highest quality level of coffee. Choose from their selection of freshly baked pastries, including seasonal kouign amanns, muffins and Danishes, to go with your espresso.

Green Thumb. The locals in Santa Barbara love the weekly Saturday Farmers Market for the abundance of local produce and flowers (plenty to find from local meat and dairy producers too.). A perfect souvenir to take with you is a jar of raw honey from one of the nearby apiaries.

Midday

Time Travel. Just outside of Santa Barbara in neighboring Montecito is the Casa del Herrero, a beautifully preserved Spanish colonial revival style estate from the 1920s originally owned by inventor George Fox Steedman. Take a 90-minute guided tour of the property, including the historic house, art objects and the former blacksmith’s studio on-site. Leave time to stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens.

Afternoon

Glass Half Full. If you don’t have time to take a full tour of the wine country, the Urban Wine Trail is the perfect solution. With over 25 tasting rooms in downtown Santa Barbara, you can savor the best of the region all within walking distance. With food trucks scattered along the route on the weekends, you can snack as you stroll or arrange for a guided tour by car or pedicab.  

Evening

Funk Zone. Head to the vibrant arts and shopping district named, yes, the Funk Zone, for dinner at The Lark, which focuses on a family-style approach to locally sourced foods. Their wine list celebrates local wineries, and the vegetable-forward dishes on the menu shine (the crispy Brussels sprouts starter is well-loved).

Morning

Sunday Brunch. Time to treat yourself with an indulgent brunch at The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach, a local favorite in a stunning oceanfront setting. Post-breakfast, enjoy a walk on the beach to work off the decadent breakfast and bubbles.

Midday

Zone Out. Santa Barbara is famous for its pristine coastline, so head for two-mile stretch of beach that lines the edge of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara property. Or, if you like an ocean view without the sand, you can set up at one of the two zero-edge pools facing the water. Grab lunch or a cold beverage without leaving at the adjoining SunBar.

Spa Select. If you need even more relaxation than staring at the ocean, head to the 42,000-square-foot spa and wellness center on the property. Choose from a selection of services, ranging from the signature massage to a Custom Facial. Or just enjoy quiet time at the adults-only pool in the center.

Afternoon

Harbor Master.  The Santa Barbara Harbor is a hub for the city, with an active marina, a maritime museum, and shopping and restaurants. Take a stroll to soak up the late afternoon sun and the charm of the harbor. If you want a more active excursion, you can go kayaking or paddle boarding from the harbor as well.

Evening

Sunset Sail. Work up an appetite for dinner with a sunset cruise off the harbor. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a look at more than the waves, with the chance to see sea lions, dolphins or whales. Enjoy two hours of gorgeous scenery on a classic sailboat (times change with the sunset).  

Fine Dining. Wrap your weekend up with a top-notch dinner at Marisella, where Chef Danny Grant blends Amalfi Coast tradition with the richness of California’s land and sea. Savor handmade pastas, wood-grilled seafood and meats, and expertly crafted martinis in a beautifully appointed setting overlooking the Pacific.