Motels in Santa Barbara

In the late 1700s, the Spanish settled in the area, influencing much of the architecture. Established in 1786, The Old Mission Santa Barbara is the town's chief cultural and historical landmark and offers regular tours. Opening in 1941, the Santa Barbra Museum of Art showcases a 27,000-piece permanent collection with works ranging from classical antiquities to modern exhibits. A must-do is the Santa Barbara Zoo. No zoo in the world has the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop.

Whether you're looking to catch the perfect wave or the perfect sunset, Santa Barbara is known for its beaches. The East Beach is a favorite located east of State Street, Santa Barbara's main thoroughfare for shopping and dining, and Stearns Wharf, the oldest working pier in California.

Santa Barbara is at the doorstep of the Los Padres National Forest and provides opportunities for camping, fishing, and swimming. In addition, Channel Islands National Park is off the shore, an archipelago where you can kayak through caves, snorkel in pristine waters, and hike among wildlife. Finally, of course, whale watching is a must-do in Santa Barbara, whose coastal waters provide passage for humpback, blue, gray, and killer whales.

With so many activities, you'll need to stay fueled. Fortunately, there are plenty of dining options—from harbor-side classics, stylish hot spots, cozy cafés, casual taquerias, elegant wine bars, and cocktail lounges. In addition, with over 200 wineries in Santa Barbara, you can't leave Santa Barbara without visiting a vineyard and sampling some of the region's best wines.

Other things to explore in Santa Barbra:

• El Presidio De Santa Barabra
• State Historic Park
• The Clock Tower
• Red Tile Walking Tour
• Santa Barbra Botanic Garden
• Funk Zone
• Moxi Museum
• Museum of Natural History
• Maritime Museum
• The Carriage and Western Art Museum
• Chromatic Gate
• Inspiration Point
• Seven Falls