Affectionately known as the ‘American Riviera,’ Santa Barbara is famous for its postcard-perfect beaches, great surfing, stunning hiking trails, world-class wineries, and fun downtown area.
Just 95 miles north of the vibrant city of Los Angeles, this California coastal gem is an ideal destination for a bachelorette party weekend. What could be better than enjoying the great outdoors, sipping wine, and exploring charming shops with your closest friends before the big day?
Here’s your ultimate guide for planning a Santa Barbara bachelorette party with the best hotels, restaurants, activities, and more!
The Best Hotels In Santa Barbara For A Bachelorette Party
Accommodations in Santa Barbara (aka “SB”) can be pricey, but we’ve narrowed down the best hotels for every budget. Whether the bride-to-be wants a spa resort or a quaint Californian surf house vibe, Santa Barbara has something for every taste and group size.
These are ten of the top-rated hotels in Santa Barbara!
Luxury Santa Barbara Hotels
- Rosewood Miramar Beach – Head to this five-star resort hotel for a relaxing VIP experience. Set directly on the gorgeous Miramar Beach, this hotel offers a full-service spa with six treatment rooms (including outside spaces), two outdoor swimming pools, a sushi restaurant and stand-alone luxury bungalows – perfect for a bachelorette group!
- El Encanto, A Belmont Hotel – This colonial-style hotel is located off the beaten path in a secluded paradise. It has a large full-service spa, two onsite restaurants, yoga classes, an outdoor pool lounge area and bicycle rentals. The perfect hotel for rejuvenation and relaxation, yet still close enough to all the central Santa Barbara attractions.
- Hotel Californian – This five-star hotel is conveniently located in downtown Santa Barbara in the trendy Funk Zone district. It boasts a full-service spa, three onsite restaurants and a lovely rooftop terrace with ocean views.
- The Ritz-Carlton Bacara – Located in Goleta, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this Mediterranean-style 5-star luxury resort is just 0.6 miles from Sandpiper Golf Course and a quick fifteen-minute drive from downtown Santa Barbara. This is an ideal place to relax and unwind at the beach, but there’s so much else to do here, you may never leave!
Mid-Range Santa Barbara Hotels
- The Kimpton Canary Hotel – Located off State Street and close to some of Santa Barbara’s best shopping, this upscale hotel features a health club that offers yoga classes and boasts the only rooftop pool in the city. Sip cocktails as you enjoy a swim and stunning mountain and city views.
- Hotel Milo Santa Barbara – Located on West Beach across the street from Santa Barbara harbor, this charming beach-chic hotel offers 121 contemporary rooms. Surrounded by Spanish-colonial architecture, enjoy the two outdoor pools, a hot tub, and a terrace. You can even use the free bicycle rentals and on-site beach volleyball.
- The Franciscan Hotel – This quaint hotel, located near Santa Barbara Harbor, offers simple yet sophisticated rooms, an outdoor pool, and a tranquil atmosphere. Guests rave about its convenient and walkable location, and it also offers suites that accommodate multiple guests.
Budget Santa Barbara Hotels
- Moxy Santa Barbara – Close to Stearns Wharf, this modern hotel has an entertainment area, outdoor pool, bar and funky décor. A great option in downtown Santa Barbara.
- Riviera Beach House – This fabulous boutique hotel is situated near the pier on Lower State Street, offering easy access to all the downtown attractions. The charming interior provides a perfect spot to unwind after a day of celebration.
- Mason Beach Inn – This charming hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and has been newly remodeled with a Mediterranean décor. There is also a pool, garden and bike rentals.
Check out our Santa Barbara Hotel Guide for more information and hotel options!
Top Things To Do On A Santa Barbara Bachelorette Party
Santa Barbara is the ideal destination for a Californian bachelorette party, as not only does it have the famous weather and stunning beach lifestyle, but there are so many other unforgettable activities to do!
From hiking to wine tasting and shopping to surfing, there’s no end of activities for your group to enjoy.
There are plenty of things to do and see in the city, but here are ten must-do things on a Santa Barbara bachelorette party weekend.
1) Wine Tasting In The Funk Zone
Over 20 wineries make up the Urban Wine Trail of Santa Barbara and the most fun can be had in the wineries of the lively Funk Zone. Full of colorful murals, wineries, breweries, shops, restaurants and galleries, this is the perfect and most convenient place to do a wine tasting as you can walk between the wineries.
2) Explore The Breathtaking SB Coastline
Santa Barbara boasts miles of stunning coastline, featuring classic sandy beaches, surfing hotspots, rugged cliffs, and great sunset spots. For a sunrise or sunset swim, head to Butterfly Beach, sunbathe on East Beach right next to Stearn’s Wharf, paddle board at Leadbetter Beach, and relax on a day at the aptly named Summerland Beach.
3) Hike Inspiration Point
Accessible via either a 3.5-mile round-trip or a more challenging 7-mile hike, Inspiration Point offers a beautiful lookout with views of the Santa Barbara skyline and the Channel Islands in the distance.
4) Learn How To Surf
Santa Barbara is a wonderful place to learn how to surf year-round. Rincon is an excellent spot for intermediate lessons, while Mondos is an ideal break for beginners.
I’ve been teaching surf lessons for over 20 years to adults and children of all ages. I offer private surf lessons year-round in Santa Barbara and Malibu. Surfing is a great group activity for an active bachelorette party!
You can learn more and book your lesson at SurfLessonsWithVanessa.com!
5) Explore Stearns Wharf
One of Santa Barbara’s most popular tourist attractions, Sterns Wharf is a pier located at the end of State Street, that offers shopping, dining, and an aquarium.
If you and your girls like animals, you should visit the Sea Center on the pier, where you can pet baby sharks and sting rays and learn more about the ocean wildlife that call Santa Barbara home.
The pier is a fully-functioning wharf, so you can go in the early morning to buy the freshest catch of the day straight off the boats and at the best prices!
6) Spot Whales On A Sunset Cruise
There are two whale watching seasons around Santa Barbara: In the Spring (February, March, April), you can see California grey whales, and from May to September, you can see Humpback Whales, Minke Whales and Blue Whales.
One of the best ways to get closer to these magnificent creatures is to go on a whale-watching tour – some companies even offer these at sunset – can you think of a more magical experience?
7) Rejuvenate On A Spa Day
Most of Santa Barbara’s upscale hotels offer excellent spa facilities. You can book a spa day at many of the top hotels in SB using ResortPass, and you can use code WATG20 for $20 OFF bookings over $100.
If you want something extra, head to the Himalayan Salt Cave, Santa Barbara’s largest underground salt cave, to experience some Halotherapy.
8) Visit The Channel Islands
This eight-island archipelago in the Southern California Bight has been called “the Galapagos of North America.” Five of the islands make up the Channel Islands National Park and offer countless opportunities for glimpsing wildlife like sea lions, going kayaking, scuba diving, hiking and camping.
You can reach the islands by ferry, private tour, or boat charter – a great way to do something different for the day. Check out the Santa Barbara Sailing Center for options!
9) Hike Cold Springs Trail
Located off Cold Springs Road in Montecito, this trail is renowned for its numerous pools and streams, stunning views, and vibrant wildflowers.
It’s a pleasant 3.4km circular loop that’s a terrific way to get into nature.
10) Shopping On State Street
State Street in Santa Barbara’s downtown area has many dining options, a weekly farmer’s market, many shops, boutiques, and restaurants. State Street also now features a 10-block pedestrian-only walkway.
Spending an afternoon shopping on State Street is a must for any bachelorette party weekend!
Best Tours In Santa Barbara For A Bachelorette Party
From whale watching to horse riding and exploring the great outdoors, here are some great tour options for a Santa Barbara bachelorette party.
- Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting Tour – For an unforgettable experience with your girls, head out on this tour that gives you a 90-minute horseback ride through a canyon and along a stunning river before taking you on wine tastings at two distinct vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley.
- Santa Barbara Sunset Kayak Tour – Explore the Santa Barbara coastline and harbor by paddling through the sea at sunset – the perfect way to see the city skyline against the beautiful backdrop of the Santa Ynez mountains. This two-hour tour includes paddle tuition and is suitable for all skill levels.
- Private Beginner’s Surf Lesson – Head to the waves to experience the ocean like a true Californian on this 1.5-hour surfing lesson. Be guided by an experienced instructor at Mondo’s Beach and learn all about surfing lingo and how to paddle and catch your first waves.
- Santa Ynez Wine Country Tour – Taste exquisite California wine at three local wineries, get picked up in a luxury passenger van and have a locally sourced lunch whilst learning about the region from your knowledgeable guide.
- Zipline Tour with 4X4 Humvee Ride – For the adventurous among your group, go on California’s fastest and longest ziplines – you can even go two at a time! After, soak in breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez mountains on a Humvee ride.
Best Restaurants In Santa Barbara For A Bachelorette Party
Known for its fresh seafood and classic Californian cuisine, Santa Barbara is a great foodie destination. You can’t get fresher than from the hands of the fisherman at Stearns Wharf!
Santa Barbara boasts a diverse array of excellent restaurants, ranging from upscale steakhouses to laid-back beach eateries, many of which are situated in the vibrant Funk Zone in downtown Santa Barbara or along the entertainment district of State Street.
You can wander around either of these areas and find great food and drink that all of your group will enjoy. Here are our suggestions for ten of the best restaurants in Santa Barbara for bachelorette parties.
- Oku – For beachfront California Asian cuisine, this upscale sushi bar has unobstructed ocean views and delectably fresh seafood. You can also enjoy Wagyu beef and other ‘from the land’ dishes, along with craft cocktails on the rooftop patio and lounge.
- Flor De Maiz – Located next door to Oku, Flor De Maiz is an excellent choice for great margaritas and quality Mexican cuisine, in a fun, upscale setting across from the beach.
- Cajun Kitchen – Start your day with the girls by heading to this local favorite – did someone say mimosas and breakfast burritos? Don’t forget to also try their famous French Quarter omelette.
- Brophy Bros – For some of the best fresh seafood and clam chowder around, head to Brophy Bros in the harbor.
- The Lark – In the heart of the happening Funk Zone downtown, this lively eatery is located in a former fish market and serves American fare. It also has a lovely outdoor patio area.
- Olio e Limone – Head to this charming Italian restaurant for authentic Italian fare and a beautiful wine list. For the best pizza in town, head to their sister restaurant next door, Olio Pizzeria.
- Finch and Fork – With a menu inspired by Santa Barbara’s rugged coastline and abundant local produce, this is the perfect place for regional dishes and great California wine.
- Jeannine’s Bakery – With locations in Montecito and Goleta, grab some fabulous pastries and comfort food from this Santa Barbara institution that’s been serving the community for over three decades!
- Lucky’s Steakhouse – For exquisite dining with a touch of old Hollywood glamor, head to Lucky’s in Montecito. You can also rent their private dining room for an even more special evening.
- Bouchon – In an elegant yet understated setting, this Californian French cuisine restaurant prides itself on using seasonal and local ingredients paired perfectly with local wines. This is the place to eat, especially if there are any vegetarians or vegans in your bachelorette group.
- Barbareno – Close to the sea and with a huge outdoor patio, enjoy central coast cuisine in a beautiful classic Californian setting. If you can, check out the eight-course tasting menu from celebrated Chef Julian Martinez.
Best Bars In Santa Barbara For A Bachelorette Party
With Santa Barbara being a college town, there are many fun places to go for a night out on the town.
Most clubs and bars are in the Funk Zone and on State Street. But don’t worry, Santa Barbara also has more sophisticated offerings in the form of classy cocktail lounges and great beachside happy hours.
Santa Barbara is also home to the famous Urban Wine Trail that features over twenty wineries, many of which are within easy walking distance of each other.
From our local experience, here are ten of the best bars in Santa Barbara for bachelorette parties.
- Deep Sea Tasting Room – The flagship tasting room of Conway Family Wines on the iconic Stearn’s Wharf features an outdoor deck and panoramic ocean views – the perfect place to enjoy iconic Californian wines.
- Test Pilot – This classic tiki-style bar serves excellent hand-crafted cocktails inspired by exotic flavors and is a great place to start your night in the Funk Zone.
- Topatopa Brewing Company – If craft beer is your thing, head to Topatopa’s Santa Barbara Taproom for locally brewed California beer.
- Pearl Social – For a classy, intimate cocktail lounge that also does live music, head to Pearl Social in the Funk Zone. They also occasionally do an exceptional “hands-on cocktail experience,” which would be a great group activity.
- The Boathouse – For a fantastic happy hour right on Hendry’s Beach, head to the Boathouse. Think stunning ocean views and signature cocktails.
- Good Lion – For classic swanky speakeasy vibes, sip on cocktails at the Good Lion and enjoy the ambiance with live jazz music.
- Lovejoy’s Pickle Room – For a classic neighborhood bar with great strong drinks, an old school ambiance and killer tunes.
- Satellite – This stylish natural wine bar offers refined vegetarian plates and delicious wines in a contemporary rustic setting.
- The Red Piano – For lively music performances seven nights a week, great drinks and a guaranteed fun night out, head to The Red Piano.
- Plow and Angel Speakeasy – Inspired by the classic speakeasies of the prohibition era, this cozy, intimate space at the San Ysidro Ranch hotel offers signature cocktails and one-of-a-kind spirits.
How To Get To Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is an ideal destination for a bachelorette party, as it is easily accessible due to the presence of major airlines offering domestic flights from various hubs across the United States to Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), which is just seven miles from the downtown area.
Several airlines offer the 50-minute flights from Los Angeles International Airport to Santa Barbara, making it easily accessible for international visitors.
Once in Santa Barbara, walking is the best way to get around, as most attractions are within just a few miles of the downtown area. Renting bikes and cycling along the many coastal bike paths is also a great way to enjoy the atmosphere.
Best Time Of Year For A Santa Barbara Bachelorette Party
California is world-famous for its great weather year-round, so there isn’t a bad time to head to Santa Barbara for a bachelorette weekend. If you really want to make it a beach getaway, though, head to SB in the summer months for the warmest temperatures.
If you want to avoid the crowds but still get in a few beach days and hiking, spring or fall are great times to visit with pleasant temperatures.
If wine is the bride-to-be’s thing, plan the bachelorette weekend around the California Wine Festival, which is held every year in Santa Barbara in July.
Santa Barbara Bachelorette Party Ultimate Guide Wrap Up
Santa Barbara is known for its gorgeous beaches, iconic Californian cuisine and laid-back vibes, making it an ideal destination for a bachelorette party weekend!
I hope this guide to Santa Barbara helps you plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful little beach town. For further trip planning, please visit our Travel Resources page for our go-to resources to help you plan your next adventure!
You can also explore all our Santa Barbara guides and for more bachelorette party destination ideas, you can explore all our bachelorette party guides!
We hope this article has inspired you to visit Santa Barbara! If you have questions or tips to share with our readers, please comment below.
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