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Fall in Love with Santa Barbara This Valentine’s Day

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Published on January 1, 2020

Romance Starts Here: Your Santa Barbara Valentine’s Escape

There’s nowhere quite like Santa Barbara when it comes to romance. With the Pacific Ocean shimmering into the horizon, pastel sunsets that seem made for toasting, and winding streets filled with charm, this coastal city sets the scene for love. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, a special anniversary, or just marked it “just because”, Santa Barbara invites you to slow down, linger longer, and fall in love all over again.

Stay a little longer, love a little deeper — book five nights in February or March and enjoy your 5th night free with promo code FREENIGHT. It’s the perfect reason to savor every ocean breeze, shared sunset, and beachside morning together.


Vista Verde 

Fairway Ocean View Escape in Santa Barbara

2 BR / 2.5 BA, Sleeps 4

Nestled on the Montecito Country Club golf course, this home is located in a sought-after neighborhood. This property offers the perfect blend of tranquility and proximity to Montecito's shops and fine dining and Santa Barbara's vibrant culture and beautiful beaches. 

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Savor the Moment: Romantic Dining in Santa Barbara

Part of the magic of a Santa Barbara escape is the local culinary scene — from candlelit dinners and oceanfront views to cozy tapas and inventive California cuisine. Here are some must-try spots to make your evenings unforgettable:

Fine Dining & Ocean Views

  • Bouchon – Classic French-inspired cuisine in an intimate downtown setting with a refined wine list and warm ambiance.
  • The Stonehouse Restaurant – Nestled at San Ysidro Ranch, this romantic terrace dining spot pairs twinkling lights and mountain views with elegant fare.
  • Boathouse at Hendry's Beach – A truly beachside experience where seafood and sunset panoramas elevate every date night.

Charming & Casual Date Night

  • The Lark – Stylish Santa Barbara favorite with locally sourced cuisine great for a celebratory dinner.
  • Loquita – Share small plates and Spanish flair in a lively yet intimate atmosphere.
  • milk & honey – Cozy tapas style dining with high-backed booths perfect for conversation.
  • Zaytoon – Lush patio dining with Middle Eastern flavors and fire pits that feel extra cozy on cool February evenings.

Something a Little Different

  • Oku – For sushi lovers, a romantic and stylish date night with inventive Asian fusion.
  • Toma Restaurant & Bar – Italian classic just steps from the beach — great for a sunset dinner and a stroll afterward.

Other Romantic Picks

  • Gala Restaurant – Barcelona-inspired cuisine and cocktails perfect for a special night out.
  • The Black Sheep Restaurant + Bar – Elevated yet inviting menu with creative dishes and plush interiors for a relaxed date.
  • Intermezzo by Wine Cask – Intimate setting with a premium wine list to toast your time together.

Tip: Reservations for Valentine’s Week and weekend evenings fill up early, so plan ahead to snag the best tables.


Mesa Breeze 

Artsy bungalow Near the Beach in Santa Barbara

2 BR / 2 BA, Sleeps 4

This charming Mesa home is ideally located by the dog-friendly Douglas Family Preserve, offering scenic bluff trails for exploring. Also nearby are neighborhood favorites like Lazy Acres (organic grocery), Lighthouse Coffee, Mesa Burger, and other charming local shops. This is coastal California living at its finest.

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Perfect Pairings: Romantic Activities to Complement Dinner

Santa Barbara isn’t just about amazing food — the whole destination is made for couples:

  • Stroll Along Butterfly Beach at Sunset – Pack a small picnic and watch the sky blush as the day ends.
  • Wine Tasting in the Funk Zone – Wander wine tasting rooms hand-in-hand, sip local vintages, and make memories in this artsy neighborhood.
  • Sunset Sailing Cruise – Elevate your evening with a scenic cruise and a glass of wine as the sun dips below the waves.
  • Outdoor Movie or Live Music Night – Check local listings for sunset movies at the Courthouse or live music downtown to end the night on a high note.

Plan Your Valentine’s Escape

From ocean-view dining and intimate patios to beachside walks and sunset sails, Santa Barbara has every ingredient for a romantic getaway. Add in the 5th night free when you book five or more nights in February or March, and you have the perfect recipe for a love-filled escape.

Romance starts here — by the sea, under the stars, and over unforgettable meals. 

Book now with promo code: FREENIGHT