Saturday in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is glorious. We have mountains, beaches, incredible restaurants and coffee shops, world-class wine tasting, perfect weather, I can go on and on. Whether you are a local or just visiting, deciding on how to spend a Saturday in this gorgeous town can be daunting. With so many choices, where do you start?
Here are some of my tried and true, personal favorite Saturday activities that I never tire of.
1. START THE MORNING WITH A LATTE AT THE FRENCH PRESS
The French Press made its way onto the Santa Barbara coffee scene in 2009 and did so in a big way. Julia Mayer and Todd Stewart opened the first shop on the corner of State and Figueroa Streets and the welcome from the community was overwhelming. Lines formed out the door with customers anxious to get their morning jolt from The French Press’ beautifully crafted espresso and coffee drinks.
Two more shops quickly opened – one on Anacapa Street across the street form the Saturday Santa Barbara Farmers Market (my personal favorite) and one in Goleta across from the Camino Real Shopping Center.
2. STROLL THE SANTA BARBARA CERTIFIED ORGANIC FARMERS MARKET
After I’ve gotten my latte, I love to walk across the street and stroll the Saturday Farmer’s Market to pick up some flowers to adorn my apartment, some vegetables for the week and oftentimes a whole chicken from Jimenez Family Farms to roast for Sunday dinner.
The sights and sounds of the Farmer’s Market never disappoint with a wide variety of musicians from didgeridoo players, to student violinists, to seasoned bluegrass bands. Be sure to tip the musicians for entertaining you and for their talent!
3. WINE TASTE IN THE PRESIDIO NEIGHBORHOOD
Wandering over to The Presidio Neighborhood located in downtown Santa Barbara in the historic El Paseo, for some wine tasting is another of my favorite activities. I really enjoy this wine tasting collective when I’m in the mood for an elevated wine experience. The handcrafted, boutique wines at Jamie Slone Wines suit my taste perfectly and owners, Jamie and Kym Slone and their dog Sophie are the best!
4. TAKE IN THE VIEW FROM THE CLOCK TOWER AT THE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY COURTHOUSE
After a little wine, I wander over to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, go up to the top of the clock tower and take in the 360-degree view of the city. The expanse of red-tile roofs and the ocean view to the south is a breathtaking experience and something everyone should do when in Santa Barbara.
5. INDULGE IN LOBSTER DINNER AT ENTERPRISE FISH CO.
Enterprise Fish Co. is an old favorite of mine. This local’s favorite restaurant serves up some of the freshest and best seafood in town and is known for their award-winning happy hour. When I’m not enjoying a small bite and a drink at the bar, I like to dine on their Maine Lobster dinner. Weighing in at around 2 lbs. and including soup, salad and a side, you will walk away feeling spoiled and satisfied.
6.WATCH THE SUNSET ON THE BEACH WITH MY FRIENDS
After dinner, it’s time to walk off some of that indulgence with my friends and watch the epic Santa Barbara sunset from the beach. Whichever beach you choose, you can’t go wrong. The view is amazing from every locale and sharing it with friends is the best way to take it all in.
Cheers to Saturdays in Santa Barbara!
