Early Spring in Santa Barbara

After a few days in LA for work, we decided to stop in Santa Barbara on our way home for a little weekend getaway.

I’ve always loved SB for its charming architecture, blissful weather, and laid-back aesthetic. It always feels like stepping into a Nancy Meyer’s movie (I very much try to cultivate this vibe all the time, but while I’m in Santa Barbara it’s particularly easy).

Charming Spanish-Colonial inspired rooms at the Kimpton.

Where We Stayed

This trip we did a two night stay at the Kimpton just off of State Street, which was honestly just meh. The rooms are a charming Spanish-inspired design which I was immediately drawn to. I’d never stayed here before, and was so excited for the resort pool which is on their rooftop (it looked so lovely in the pictures!) however it was so sadly closed while we were there! Hopefully it opens back up soon because I think the pool is probably the main attraction at this particular hotel…nothing against it, I just have stayed at places I’ve liked muuuch more. This is our favorite place to stay in SB, and I’ve been dying to try this place as well.

Where We Ate

Every time we’re in SB I like to head over to Scarlett Begonia, a little cafe for brunch/breakfast. Get the giant cinnamon roll…it’s literally the best ever.

We also love this little Italian place. It feels like a little neighborhood gem–the first time we went there we saw Natalie Portman and her family at the table just across from us.

Shop Kitchen is also a favorite after a night out…I love their sandos and it’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch / brunch!

For coffee and pastries I love this little cafe over in Montecito! I love grabbing a coffee and doing a little shopping in the area–Jenni Kayne is a must stop and so close by to this!

Wine Tasting

Our day-to-day on this vacation was spent mainly just eating and walking around the cute little streets of downtown Santa Barbara. We found the cutest little wine tasting “courtyard” just off of State Street and popped in to try some of Grassini’s varietals. We then popped over to Frequency which we LOVED–such good pinot!

Shopping

I definitely love booking a half day over in Montecito for shopping! I love getting to see the Jenni Kayne store down there as well as the Hudson Grace and a few other local gems along the main drive.

State street also has decent shopping…but nothing too spectacular honestly. I did stumble upon a little antique store called Lewis and Clark which had a beautiful collection of little trinkets!