Santa Barbara

My parents lived in Santa Barbara for a long time, so I am extremely familiar with this popular beach town. There’s more to it than the beautiful coastline, though the two most popular resorts we book here (The Ritz-Carlton Bacara and Rosewood Miramar) are right on it.

This California city a world-class foodie destination that’s heavily focused on local produce (thanks to a year-round growing season) and the tacos are amazing (we like La Superica). The quintessential red-tile roofs and whitewashed walls that people associate with Santa Barbara architecture add so much charm.

Santa Barbara also has history and art museums and a vibrant cultural district known locally as the Funk Zone and you can sample wines from dozens of wineries. Amtrak will drop you off right in downtown so you could be boutique shopping or on the sand within minutes of arrival. And there’s plenty to do with kids.

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    two girls playing at the water's edge at the beach in Santa Barbara

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