A Complete Insideers Guide to Beautiful Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara is one of the most beautiful locations to visit in the world and being a native I believe I should let you in on the best places to visit.

1. The Pier, Marina, & Waterfront: The Pier is a very relaxing experience with pelicans catching fish and often dolphins jumping out of the sea. The pier is the perfect place for a stroll with your significant other or a day with the family. It also offers the beautiful Ty Warner Sea Center and next door at the bay is the Maritime Museum. The Maritime Museum has many excellent exhibits about the Marine environment we all enjoy here and has many historical aspects of Marine life ranging back to the Chumash. The Marina is especially popular during holidays such as the 4th of July when there are spectacular firework displays and many people choose to have parties and barbeques.

2. The Old Mission: The old mission not far from downtown was the original site and has been restored with historical presentations. Every year the clay is handmade and sunbaked to restore this beautiful piece of history. This is a great way to get a real experience of the historical aspect of Santa Barbara and it's rich history.

3. Downtown: Santa Barbara is known for it's exquisite shopping. High end designers, local quaint boutiques, and stunning architecture. You will be able to find most anything is this modern and sophisticated shopping environment. There is also quite a selection of restaurants and food choices extending from the most exotic to some very authentic Santa Barbara delicacy's.

4. Montecito: Come check out the stars; Montecito is the home of many big names including Oprah Winfrey. It offers a unique shopping experience and some wonderful dining opportunities. Many people take a tour of this glitz and glamor area and usually have sticker shock at the prices of it's local retailers and home prices.Montecito offers many a day of fulfilling enjoyment at one of Americas uber-rich communities.

5. The New Mission: The Santa Barbara Mission is one of the most magnificent in the state and is at the center of many of the activities, both religious and cultural that happen here in town. It is definitely a must see for Santa Barbara.

6. The Courthouse: This beautiful piece of stone structure gives you the feeling of stepping back into 17th century Spain, even though it was built only 75 years ago. If you do choose to see it make sure you take a trip too the top and get a glimpse of the beautiful view of the city.

7. The Santa Barbara Zoo: With over 600 animals the Santa Barbara Zoo is one of the best in the nation. It holds and nurtures over 600 animals and is very spacious and relaxing perfect for a picnic or activity for the entire family.

8. The Stowhouse & Railroad Museum: A very quaint and historical landmark of the Goleta area this house was built by one of the most influential families in 1873. It is the oldest framed house in the entire Goleta valley and has many exiting and interactive exhibits, with hands on historical artifacts.

9. Botanical Gardens: It can be a little bit of a trip but definitely worth it the botanical gardens offer many different types of plant and foliage life and give you a real opportunity to experience the most biologically diverse state in the US.

10. Santa Barbara Historical Society: A beautiful and informative place to find out about Santa Barbara's heritage and current, ever changing culture an excellent place to visit.

11. Santa Barbara Museum of Art: The museum of art has lots of wonderful attractions stretching from Greek and Asian sculpture and weaponry to modern impressionist works. The entire collection can also be seen in about an hour and a half so it doesn't take up the entire day.

12. Ronald Regan Ranch Center: This beautiful exhibit brings out all the highlights of both the Ronald Regan ranch and the man himself and his accomplishments.

13. Casa De La Guerra: The site was initially built in 1817 and since has always been a highlight of political, social, and cultural events throughout time. This is a genuine must see of our Spanish-American history.

14. The Museum of Natural History: This is a beautiful museum with tons of history, information, and exhibits on our Fauna and Foliage in Santa Barbara. It also has an impressive section for the prehistoric life and culture of the native inhabitants of Santa Barbara.