9 days in Santa Barbara Itinerary

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara is a solid vacation destination with its wide beaches, renowned wineries, and some of California's finest shopping and dining options.

We've included these beaches for you: Zuma Beach and Malibu Lagoon State Beach. Change things up with these side-trips from Santa Barbara: Santa Maria (Rancho Sisquoc Winery & Foxen Vineyard & Winery), Sunstone Vineyards & Winery (in Santa Ynez) and Malibu (Nicholas Canyon Beach & Carbon Beach). Pack the 30th (Thu) with family-friendly diversions at Six Flags Magic Mountain. There's lots more to do: indulge your senses at some of the top wineries in the area, ponder the world of politics at Santa Barbara County Courthouse, take a leisurely stroll along Stearns Wharf, and learn about winemaking at Rusack Vineyards.

For other places to visit, maps, more things to do, and tourist information, you can read our Santa Barbara driving holiday tool.

In April, daytime highs in Santa Barbara are 71°F, while nighttime lows are 50°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 30th (Thu) early enough to travel back home.