No matter what brings you to Montecito Inn and Santa Barbara, California, you'll be able to fill your days and nights with adventure. With so many things to do, you'll need our help to get planning. Speak with our concierge to see how to experience the area like a local.
With the Santa Ynez Mountains to the north, the Channel Islands to the South, the beautiful California coast and Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara showcases spectacular views for those paddling the coastline. While paddle boarding or kayaking, you'll also see an array of sea life underneath you. Perhaps you'll be greeted by playful seals or have special encounters with a dolphin or whale coming up for a breath of fresh air.
Whether you want to try surfing for the first time or join the professionals at Rincon Beach, Santa Barbara is known for many surf spots for all skill levels. You may even be joined by a school of dolphins surfing the waves!
Whether by land or by sea, Santa Barbara is one of the best places on the West Coast to participate in whale watching. You'll spot a variety of majestic migrating whales from the pacific shore or on several day cruises departing the Santa Barbara Harbor every day.
Disappear to a whimsical land that leaves you filled with awe and wonder. Lotusland has 37 acres of diverse plants, cacti, and succulents, showcasing unique gardens from all over the world including an authentic Japanese tea garden.
Experience firsthand California's unique beauty while at the Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens. As you explore five miles of spring poppy fields, redwood forests, California native plants, and cacti, take in the scenic views of the Pacific Ocean in the distance.
One of the reasons why Santa Barbara is the most ideal place to vacation is the dramatic contrast between the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Explore the mountains in Santa Barbara on a hike to Seven Falls, exploring endless trails sheltered by the shade of eucalyptus trees and featuring boulders to climb, a natural rock water slide with natural pools to swim in, and picturesque views of the Channel Islands and the Coastlands.
An educational experience that sparks an interest at any age, the Museum of Natural History allows visitors to stargaze at the Gladwin planetarium, discover the skeleton of a blue whale, or explore the outdoors where you can build forts, make mud pies, learn about conservation, and hold live critters in their natural habitat.
The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is full of diversity and rich in culture. Located in downtown Santa Barbara, the museum offers rotating exhibits, guest lectures, orchestra performances, and classes for adults and children.
Everyone loves this interactive museum, where adults and children can play, create, discover, and learn more about science, technology, engineering, math, and the arts through rotating hands-on exhibits.