The Best Santa Barbara Attractions for your Day Trip

The Best Santa Barbara Attractions for your Day Trip

When visiting Santa Barbara, it's possible that you may want to take a little tour of the towns, cities, and villages that make our region so wonderful, and we can't blame you wanting to go on day trips from Santa Barbara! Many of us here at Paradise Retreats have lived here our entire lives and still wake up every day wondering how we got so lucky to live in such a beautiful place, and the towns nearby just add a sprinkle of awesome to our story. And just because you are already on vacation doesn't mean you have to stay where you are temporarily planted; rent a car, grab your sunglasses, and let's take a road trip to enjoy the best Santa Barbara attractions!

Seeing Solvang

Although this town is inland from the PCH, the beauty of the 45-minute drive will have you pinching yourself, and when you reach the Danish settlement, you'll pinch yourself even more! Home to the historic Mission Ines, the Elverhoj Museum of History & Art, and a unique Vintage Motorcycle Museum, there's enough to do here to last the entire day! If you get there early enough, stop by Paula's Pancakes and enjoy a bite of heaven; this eatery has been a local staple for a few generations, and if you've never tried Danish pancakes before, THIS is where to start!

San Simeon

This day trip is for those who are really invested in putting in some miles. San Simeon, home to the Hearst Castle, is about two hours north of Santa Barbara, but the ride along the Coast Road is DEFINITELY worth it, as is the visit to Hearst Castle and the fascinating glimpse into how the other half lives. Grand, elegant, sumptuous, and opulent, the Castle offers tours with ticket prices starting at $12 for children. The Piedra Blancas Light Station is another fan favorite, offering tours with ticket prices starting at $5 for children. Make sure to leave room for a visit to this unique piece of maritime history!

Santa Ynez Valley Wine Tours

You had us at wine! And although many of the wineries you find in wine country aren't far from your Paradise Retreats vacation escape, you may still want to hire a tour with the Stage Coach Company and let someone else do the driving while you reap the benefits of drinking all the really good wine you can drink in the Santa Ynez Valley! Book tours at https://winetourssantaynez.com/.

The Ride Home is Filled with Anticipation

As night falls over the roads you've been traveling, the ride home may seem to last forever when anticipating returning to your vacation escape where each room offers style, comfort, and the feeling of home. Contact us to reserve your vacation rental today and be sure to check our specials!