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Best Romantic Getaways and Activities in Santa Barbara

Smiling couple with wine glasses in a vineyard, both wearing sunglasses.

Looking for a romantic getaway? There is no better place for couples than Santa Barbara.

Explore charming gardens, sail along the coastline, or indulge in spa retreats; Santa Barbara offers a romantic escape unlike any other.

You can also pair your visit with private wine tours to make it more memorable as you indulge in the exquisite wines while enjoying the scenic vineyards.

Here’s a list of things to do in Santa Barbara for couples, designed to inspire romance and adventure.

Romantic Beach Walks

If you’re someone who loves leisurely walks, then strolling along East Beach or Butterfly Beach is a timeless way to spend time with your loved ones.

The golden sands and soothing sound of waves make both sunrise and sunset magical. Pack a picnic, share a bottle of local wine, and let the ocean set the mood.

Wine Tasting Experience

Seven people sitting at a wooden table with wine glasses in a rustic room.

Pair your visit with Sustainable wine tours and enjoy a unique Santa Barbara County wine experience with Private tastings. These tours often include:

  • Exclusive Access: Seated private tastings, sometimes hosted by winemakers or winery owners, create intimate and personalized moments.
  • Private Estates: You have the opportunity to explore numerous vineyards that are off-limits to the general public, providing couples with a peaceful and uncrowded environment.
  • Luxury Transportation: Door-to-door service in a Tesla Model X SUV for smaller groups or a customized Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicle for larger ones adds a touch of elegance.
  • Quality Wine: Tastings typically feature boutique, family-owned, sustainable wineries showcasing some of the region’s best vintages.

For those who prefer to stay in town, the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail offers dozens of tasting rooms within walking distance, perfect for a relaxed day of exploration.

Romantic Dining Experiences in Santa Barbara

Elegant dinner setting with gourmet dish, wine glasses, and bread on a table.

Santa Barbara is known for its multicultural cuisines ideal for couples seeking intimate dining experiences.

Check the list of fine dining restaurant highlights, which includes several must-visit restaurants for couples, including:

  • Bouchon – elegant French-inspired dining.
  • The Lark – farm-to-table California cuisine in the Funk Zone.
  • Loquita – authentic Spanish tapas, ideal for sharing.
  • The Boathouse – fresh seafood with breathtaking ocean views.

For couples, securing a reservation ensures the perfect candlelit setting, with fine wine and gourmet dishes that turn dinner into a cherished memory.

Stearns Wharf & Harbor Strolls

California’s oldest working wharf offers waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and panoramic views. A sunset walk here captures the coastal charm of Santa Barbara perfectly.

Nature Escapes & Gardens

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden invites couples to explore native plants and hidden trails. For adventure, hiking Inspiration Point rewards with sweeping vistas of the coastline.

Sunset Sailing

You can take a private boat or group cruise from Santa Barbara Harbor, which offers magical moments.

Spa Retreats Together

Rolled towels with flowers on a spa table, incense sticks burning, outdoor setting with umbrellas.

Couples can unwind at the Salt Cave Spa or indulge in luxurious treatments at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara or Belmond El Encanto. Side-by-side massages with ocean views combine relaxation with romance.

Scenic Drives & Horseback Riding

You can drive along the Pacific Coast Highway or into the Santa Ynez Mountains for a romantic drive, clicking romantic photos and enjoying the sunset together. For something special, take a sunset horseback ride along the beach or through the hills.

Art, Culture & Nightlife

Santa Barbara has some of the best cultural highlights, including the Old Mission Santa Barbara and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.

Additionally, you can plan your evening and enjoy jazz at SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, a show at the Granada Theatre, or cocktails in the Funk Zone.

Hot Air Balloon Rides

For a grand gesture, a hot air balloon ride over the Santa Ynez Valley offers breathtaking views of vineyards, mountains, and the coastline, an unforgettable way to celebrate love.

Conclusion

Couples seeking a romantic getaway should visit Santa Barbara; from leisurely walks at the beaches to fine dining at the five-star restaurant, the city has so many things to offer.

If you’re a couple looking for outdoor activities, you can definitely go horseback riding or hot air balloon riding. Apart from this, you can also enjoy the city’s best jazz clubs and art museums in Santa Barbara.

Couples looking for a more personalized setting can pair their visit with a private wine tasting tour offering fine dining and exclusive access to Santa Barbara wineries and seated private tastings, which are often hosted by winemakers or winery owners.

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