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Santa Barbara Activities
One of southern California's most engaging coastal towns, Santa Barbara has attracted tourists for more than a century with its lush foliage, ocean vistas and the striking Santa Ynez mountains. The city's motif is Mediterranean: many buildings have red-tile roofs, wrought-iron gates and adobe exteriors. Golden beaches, a rich cultural scene and thriving outdoor cafés and restaurants also contribute to the Riviera-style ambience. The city's top activities are within walking distance or a short drive of the new Hotel Andalucia.
Santa Barbara Activities within a five-minute drive of the Hotel
Andalucia's front door:
Santa Barbara Mission (5-minute drive)
Often referred to as the "Queen of the Missions," the Santa Barbara Mission is a graceful building founded in 1786 as the 10th of 21 Franciscan missions in California. From the steps of the mission, visitors have a panoramic view of the city. The building continues to be a focal point of cultural and religious activity with a full schedule of events throughout the year.
(10-minute walk; 5-minute drive)
A wonderful park east of the Wharf, Chase Palm Park features bike and rollerblading trails, a skateboard park, recreation house and convenient beach access. The park's long stretch of grass is great for playing soccer or catch while on the city side there is an outdoor music pavilion, carousel, children's playground, plenty of well-tended walks and a lovely pond. Local artisans gather here every Sunday to share their latest wares.
(15-minute walk; 5-minute drive)
Along this stretch of incredible coastline there are beautiful sandy beaches, restaurants, shops, artists at work and a bike trail. The center of Waterfront activity is the 130-year-old Stearn's Wharf, where Santa Barbara's early immigrants and supplies came to shore. The Harbor offers fishing, pleasure boating and the fabulous Maritime Museum with its interactive exhibits, including a periscope with 365-degree views. Each Sunday the Waterfront Arts and Crafts Show features artists, craftspeople and street performers.
Santa Barbara Activities within a 10-minute drive of the Hotel
Andalucia's front door :
Botanic Garden (10-minute drive)
One of Santa Barbara's hidden treasures, the Botanic Garden is an educational and scientific institution fostering stewardship of the natural world. With an emphasis on plants native to California, the garden features 65 acres of trees, shrubs, wildflowers, cacti and miles of nature trails.
(10-minute walk)
One of the most interesting and significant landmarks in Santa Barbara, the Presidio was founded in 1782 as the last of four military fortresses built by the Spanish along the wilderness frontier. The chapel was the first in Santa Barbara for the locals (the Mission was used primarily by the converted Indian population).
Santa Barbara Bowl (10-minute drive)
The Santa Barbara Bowl has become a home for the performing arts in Santa Barbara. As the largest outdoor amphitheater in Santa Barbara County, with a capacity to seat 4,562, the Bowl retains its intimate ambiance while offering the freedom of a beautiful and natural outdoor venue. The venue showcases some top acts as they travel between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Santa Barbara Winery (10-minute walk)
This fantastic winery is located just steps away from the Pacific Ocean and has been established for 40 years. Their location includes a tasting room with a small courtyard and is a classic Santa Barbara winery.
Santa Barbara Activities within a 15-minute drive of the
Hotel Andalucia's front door:
(15-minute drive)
Some of Santa Barbara County's most spectacular scenery can only be seen on horseback. Expert trail guides navigate the native chaparral hilltops with their ancient oak trees, creeks, waterfalls and stunning sunset views of the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands.
(15-minute walk, 5-minute drive)
Set on a southern-facing coast sheltered by the Channel Islands, Santa Barbara is an excellent whale watching location-many consider it one of the best in the world. Visitors can witness the awe-inspiring migration of the gray whales and 27 other whale and dolphin species that inhabit the Santa Barbara Channel at various times of the year. The two best whale watching opportunities are during February, March and early April when the California Grey Whales make their appearance, and from May to September when Blue Whales, Minke Whales and Humpback Whales come around. Other large mammals, including dolphins, porpoises, seals and sea lions, can be viewed year-round.
Surfing at Santa Barbara Beaches
(15-minute walk, 5-minute drive)
With plenty of beaches to choose from, surfers new to the area won't have a hard time finding great surf. Head out to Rincon Point to surf one of the worlds top surfing spots. This top attraction in Santa Barbara brings professional surfers from all over and makes for a great spectator event. If you didn't bring a surfboard then visit one of the many surf shops that pepper the beaches. They are also great for finding swim wear and swim gear.
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