Montecito

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Montecito's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Relax in Montecito
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Stroll through the beautiful Butterfly Beach to enjoy the morning sun.

afternoon
:

Visit the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and explore its stunning collection of native plants. Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the serene spots.

evening
:

Dine at a fine restaurant with ocean views to cap off your day. Watch the sunset while tasting local seafood specialties.

day 2
Beach Day
morning
:

Grab your beach gear and head to Summerland Beach for some sun and sand. Swim or paddleboard in the gentle waves for a refreshing morning.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby beachside eatery and savor some soft tacos or fresh seafood. Spend the afternoon playing beach volleyball or lounging with a book.

evening
:

As evening falls, gather around a beach bonfire for s'mores and stories. Relax under the stars with the sound of the ocean in the background.

day 3
Nature Lovers Paradise
morning
:

Hike through the picturesque trails at the Los Padres National Forest. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views as you connect with nature.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch and have a picnic amidst the trees. Take in the sights and sounds of the forest while you recharge.

evening
:

Return to Montecito and enjoy a casual dinner at a local pizzeria. Share stories of your adventure while enjoying some delicious slices.

day 4
Arts and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art to dive into the rich local culture. Spend time appreciating the various art exhibitions on display.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the nearby historic adobe buildings to learn about their significance. Have lunch at a café in the arts district.

evening
:

Attend an evening performance at a local theater or concert hall. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local arts scene with music or drama.

day 5
Wine Tasting Experience
morning
:

Start your day with a guided tour of the Montecito vineyards. Learn about the winemaking process while soaking in the beautiful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Sample various wines during a tasting session at a local winery. Enjoy gourmet cheese pairings that complement the flavors of the wines.

evening
:

Dine at a culinary hotspot in Montecito that features local ingredients. Delight in exquisite dishes while enjoying well-paired wines from the tasting earlier.

day 6
Scenic Drives
morning
:

Take a leisurely drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Stop at beautiful overlooks for breathtaking ocean views and photo opportunities.

afternoon
:

Visit the charming towns along the way, like Santa Barbara or Carpinteria, for lunch and local shopping. Explore quaint boutiques and art galleries.

evening
:

Conclude your day at a seafood restaurant by the beach. Savor fresh dishes while enjoying the sound of the waves at sunset.

day 7
Family Fun
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Santa Barbara Zoo, perfect for family-friendly fun. Explore the exhibits and enjoy fun interactions with the animals.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the zoo's café or pack a picnic to enjoy in the park. Spend the remainder of the afternoon at the nearby Children's Museum.

evening
:

End the day with a movie night in, complete with popcorn and family favorites. Enjoy bonding time while snuggling up for a cozy evening.

day 8
Surf and Swim
morning
:

Head to a local surf school for a morning lesson and ride the waves. Feel the adrenaline as you learn to catch your first wave.

afternoon
:

Have a laid-back lunch at a beach shack after your lesson. Spend the rest of the afternoon sunbathing and splashing in the surf.

evening
:

Join a beach yoga session for a relaxed end to your day. Focus on breath and movement with the sound of the ocean around you.

day 9
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Join a cooking class to learn about the local cuisine in the morning. Discover fresh ingredients and master new recipes with a chef.

afternoon
:

Savor the dishes you've prepared during the class for lunch. Explore nearby farmers’ markets for more local ingredients.

evening
:

Enjoy a fine dining experience at one of Montecito’s upscale restaurants. Relish in innovative dishes made with local produce and seafood.

day 10
Wellness Retreat
morning
:

Begin your day with a meditation session on the beach to set a peaceful tone. Enjoy a healthy breakfast at a wellness café.

afternoon
:

Take a relaxing spa treatment to rejuvenate your body and mind. Indulge in a massage or facial using natural products.

evening
:

Attend a sunset yoga class to embrace the tranquility of the evening. Finish your day with a soothing herbal tea at a nearby wellness center.

Discover Montecito

Read more in our Montecito 2024 Travel Guide.

Montecito Travel Guide