Los Angeles is a major metropolis teeming with culture. But sometimes, especially during the summer months, a proper road trip is in order. And it turns out you don’t have to go too far from the big city to experience smaller town charm, great food, incredible scenery, west coast breweries, and more.
This year, while the masses take weekend trips to San Diego or Temecula wine country, opt for something a little different. Explore nearby coastal wonders like San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. You’ll get a healthy dose of art, fine dining, hiking trails, and sensational sea views along the way.
Kimpton Canary
Positioned right downtown in Santa Barbara, the Kimpton Canary is an ideal spot to call home, if only briefly. Touting tons of Spanish flair, the hotel features an exceptional pool and a fantastic house restaurant in Finch & Fork. It’s a short stroll to all kinds of attractions, from the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and architecturally-stunning courthouse to beaches and parks. When you do dine in, be sure to seek out fresh seafood like diver scallops and pair it up with a glass of local wine. The town is knows as the American Riviera and it really feels that way once you set foot in this hotel.
The Ellwood
This beachfront spot is located in Goleta Beach near the UC Santa Barbara campus . It’s hard to imagine a better setting and the food lives up to the surroundings. The chowder includes au gratin at the base of the bowl, the poke is mesmerizing (served with strawberry, tomato, and miso tahini), and the cocktail program is dialed-in. If you’re thirsty, try a clarified matcha Martini or a Coastal Caviar, a blend of vodka, yuzu caviar pearls, lemon, and passionfruit foam. One could linger all day at The Ellwood, devouring the cool interior design elements or simply staring at the ocean from the expansive outdoor patio set right on the water.
The Good Lion
The Good Lion is not just a fine spot for a night cap, but it’s an entire hospitality firm with venues in both Santa Barbara and Ventura. The original spot features well-made cocktails in a dimly-lit and decidedly convivial downtown bar. Standouts include the cucumber Negroni or tangerine gimlet. Cool ingredients like amaro, apricot, creole bitters, and rare tonics are the norm here and work their way into exceptional drinks.
Pali Wine Co.
The Funk Zone is one of the cooler districts within Santa Barbara, home to bars, restaurants, and winery tasting rooms. Should you end up here, Pali Wine Co. is a must-visit. Here, you’ll find inventive wines showcasing the diversity of nearby American Viticultural Areas. Look out for intriguing orange wines, Pinot Noir with lots of restraint, and wonderful blends. The service is great and the wines are as bracing and crisp as the ocean breeze.
The Pickle Room
Long live the dive bar. The Pickle Room dates back to the late 1940s, when it was known as Jimmy’s Oriental Gardens. Today, it’s a warm conclave accented by friendly faces and bright red barstools and booths. Come for the egg rolls and stay for the briny pickle Martinis.
Petit Soleil
Petit Soleil is so French you’ll think you crossed the Atlantic for a faraway vacation. The adorable hotel boasts a bar and breakfast spread and an intimate setting that creates its own little community. The rooms feature fantastic artwork, tile work, and wallpaper along with mini bars that spotlight some of the best local beverages available. Self-described as a “bed and beverage,” the place offers great cocktails in the main lounge and patio and the 17 boutique rooms all have their own personality.
Antigua Brewing
If you’re a fan of a good IPA, Antigua Brewing is your SLO hangout. It’s a great example of the vibrancy of the craft beer movement, with beers made with locally-grown hops and a fierce independent streak thanks in part to family ownership. There’s a solid food menu turned out via the brewery’s kitchen and it’s a great spot to people watch as it’s set right on bustling Monterey Street.
Other things to do
There’s so much to do in these two towns alone. In Santa Barbara, the art scene is massive, something you might expect from a much, much larger city. Major artists’ work often shows up here so be on the lookout for current exhibitions. This Mission is worth a visit and just walking through downtown to savor the Spanish architecture is highly recommended. In SLO, wander through the weekly farmer’s market as it’s full of great eats, often to the tune of live music.
Obviously, there’s beach-y fun to be had like sunning and surfing. Both towns feature prominent colleges with accessible campuses that are a joy to wander through. If you like wine, there are tons of options thanks to great regions like Sta. Rita Hills and more right nearby. Outdoors-y types are encouraged to check out great neighboring spots like Channel Islands National Park and Morro Bay. Area hikes like Rattlesnake Canyon and Seven Falls offer a great workout and natural beauty galore.
