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Santa Barbara town

State Street, Santa Barbara, California

Description

Santa Barbara is a city located between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, about 150km to the northwest of Los Angeles. It was settled by Spanish missionaries and soldiers in the 1780's who built the Santa Barbara Mission and the military Presidio. Nowadays, it is a popular resort and university town with a Mediterranean climate. Highlights include the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, the Presidio and the Mission, Our Lady of Sorrows Church, the Stearn Wharf, and the annual Summer Solstice Parade.

Access & Transport

The city is a 2h40 train ride away from L.A. on the 'Surfliner' and 1h30 by car on the US-101. From San Francisco, it is a 5h+ drive on the US-101 or about 7h if driving through Big Sur on the CA-1.

Instructions & Recommendations

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Meta review

Besides the mission (reviewed separately), visitors mostly enjoy the climate and the shopping in Santa Barbara. Other popular activities include Stearns Wharf, in particular for its good views over the sea (!) and mountains and the small local zoo which is well managed and a good place for a half day and picnic with the family.

Environmental & Social

The main activities in the city have a low carbon footprint. Socially neutral

Conclusion

Santa Barbara is much more of a week-end getaway or lifestyle town rather than a travel destination. It is a little light on cultural aspects and landmarks but will please foodies and shoppers.

Key positive

Some nice Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial architecture

Easy to get to by car or train from LA

Key negative

Not that much to see in town

Suitability

No restrictions

About this Rating

TYPE

Onsite

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in July 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 20m

est. visit time:4h

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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