6 Spots To Take Your FAMILY in Santa Barbara
Pets Included. Eats, Drinks, and Beats Guaranteed To Impress!
Ryan Kahler | Dec. 9, 2023
So your parents are coming to visit you in Santa Barbara. You forgot to make plans while they are here and now you're stuck trying to figure out where you are going to take them while they are in town. Do not fear – this list will provide you with the perfect itinerary for showing your new home to the fam. The coastal community in Central California is home to an immense amount of scenery, culture, and family friendly activities, so don’t skimp out when visitors arrive!
Grab some fuel to start the day
Perk up with a cup of coffee from a local roaster, like Cajé. The signature drinks are delightfully complex, if a bit on the sweet side. The Burnout is a favorite – a hot breve latte with bourbon pecan syrup, activated charcoal, candied ginger and a ginger salt rim.
Enjoy a Hike through the Santa Ynez
The central coast of California is home to the incredible Santa Ynez Mountains which are full of countless opportunities for hikers and activity seekers. My personal favorite has to be the Hot Springs Canyon Trail. The dog friendly trail is 3.7 miles out and back with an 1,100 ft elevation gain, and 5 different hot spring pools at the top. The hottest pools are at the top, and the bottom pool is the coolest. The pools fill up pretty quickly, so the earlier you can get here, the better. I recommend any time before 8:30 for best luck. Most consider this to be a fairly easy hike, but definitely prepare accordingly. Have a light breakfast, plenty of water, and apply a generous amount of sunscreen as the sun tends to be the biggest factor of concern here. Remember to pack a towel and perhaps a pair of sandals you wouldn’t mind getting wet for some feet protection. This is the perfect opportunity to relax in the water with exceptional views of the divine Santa Barbara coast. For additional information regarding trails and safety visit this link. Remember to practice “leave no trace” and refrain from heading off the beaten path.
Re-energize for the Day with Brunch at Boat House
After you muster up an appetite from hiking all morning, it's time to set yourself up for the long day ahead with a good brunch. Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach is an absolute must for visitors. The food is wonderful, but the views are the star of the show here. Put your name down, and take a walk along the ocean while you wait for your table. Hendry’s Beach is a dog-friendly beach so expect a warm, wet introduction from Santa Barbara’s nest four-legged furry friends. I recommend sitting outside for optimal viewing purposes! Ideally, you can listen to the waves crash while enjoying your seafood omelet and bloody mary. What better way to spoil your parents than with a omelet stuffed to the brim with lobster, shrimp, and gruyere cheese. A guaranteed clear plate! Pups are also welcome.
Next, Head to the Farmer’s Market
After breakfast, head over to State Street for the weekly Farmers Market for an instant serotonin boost. With markets in different locations around the county throughout the week, the downtown farmers market on State Street occurs every Saturday from 8am-1pm. Whether you choose to buy your mom some flowers, seasonal produce, or some locally-made hard kombuchas to sip on; the farmer’s market is a great local event to take the family to. Once you reach the end of the Farmer’s Market, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the Paseo Nuevo mall where you can window shop through the boutiques and local stores. Definitely make sure to check out the silver wholesale store as well as the Urban Flea Market before you end the shopping trip!
Bar-Hop through the Funk Zone
Time for a drink yet? Just a 10 minute walk from State Street, under the bridge you can find Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone. This area is ripe in community, creativity, and fun – a must for visitors. Immerse yourself in the art and beauty of this zone by visiting some of the art galleries and surf shops. Then, grab a quick bite to eat and a beer at Lucky Penny or Third Window. Enjoy some tunes and fine cocktails at TestPilot. Or to curb that midday crash, boost your energy with a coffee from Dart or Helena Bakery. Wherever you choose to go, there is no shortage of fun in this area and many places in the area are family friendly if you have little ones, or furry ones!
Enjoy a 5 Star Dinner at The Lark
For a nice dinner, The Lark is a top notch choice thanks to its wonderful menu, experience, and location. Located right in the heart of the Funk Zone, the inviting atmosphere makes for the perfect place to unite around the table with loved ones. Repurposed confessional booths, a 1,000 pound communal table, outdoor seating by the fireplace, make for plenty of options depending on the size and preferences for your family. The Lark is perfect for families of all sorts - so bring your kids and bring your dogs! The staff will bring out treats made in house at the bakery for the pups as well as water bowls. The Lark is a must try for visitors, but be sure to make a reservation earlier in the day as they do get busy, especially on the weekends. And do not overlook the brussel sprouts, they are absolutely divine.
Finish with Ice Cream at McConnells
Finish the night with Santa Barbara’s finest scoop at McConnell’s Ice Cream Shop. Just a short walk from The Lark, a delicious handmade scoop awaits the sweet tooth obtained from a long day of exploring the city with your loved ones. Established by husband and wife Mac and Earnsteen McConnell here in Santa Barbara in 1949, a cone from McConnells just never disappoints. Three generations later, the ice cream company LA Times called “the best in the world” still maintains its level of quality Mac and Ernie established almost 70 years ago. It's that dang good. If you are STILL alive and ready to hit the town for a night out, check out Studio Sound Room for some incredible disco. Cheers!
ENJOY YOUR TRIP!
This post is dedicated to my late dog, Charlie, who absolutely adored Santa Barbara. Love you buddy.
