Narrative and photos by Bobbi Klein.
Santa Barbara, California is a quick drive, bus or train ride from downtown LA. It’s a quiet oasis compared to Los Angeles offering outdoor adventures and a small town feel.
If you feel that it’s time for a getaway, try a day in Santa Barbara.
1. Hiking
There are numerous hikes that you can go on in the mountains. One of the trails lead you to Inspiration Point, where you can overlook the entire town of Santa Barbara and see out to the ocean. Another takes you to the old hot springs hotel that used to reside above the town. It’s a great way to get some exercise in and take in the incredible views.
2. Botanical Gardens
The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is full of a variety of California’s native plants with a picturesque background of the mountains. Walking through the paths, you feel as if you have been transported to somewhere else. It’s an adventure taking the paths through the trees seeing the bright pop of color from the poppies and other flowers.
3. Beach Time
Like other coastal California cities, the waterfront allows for people to sunbathe, take a kayak ride, watch the kite surfers glide across the ocean, catch a sailing regatta, and go swimming. For watching sailing regattas and water equipment rentals, the Marina is a must stop. After indulging in the fun, stop by On the Alley restaurant for a quick bite to eat.
For beach time, West Beach is perfect for watching water sports and East Beach is great for sun bathing and swimming. If you are driving to Santa Barbara, Padaro Beach is one of the quietest and cleanest beaches with easy surfing lessons. Just take the 101 and exit for Santa Claus Lane.
4. State Street
The main street in Santa Barbara houses the shopping and local restaurants all with the Santa Barbara architecture of white stucco walls and orange tiled roofs. After a day of hiking or on the water, enjoy looking around and seeing what the downtown has to offer before making your way back to Los Angeles.
Santa Barbara has something for everyone and is the perfect place to explore the outdoors!
Bobbi Klein is a lifestyle and travel photographer and creative director at Splendore. She loves traveling, helping people, and exploring. Connect with her on Instagram/Snapchat/ and twitter @bobbiklein. To see more of her work check out www.bobbiklein.com.