Central California coast

I've only been to far Northern CA and far Southern CA, I've never been north of LA or the central coastal areas.
We've been invited to a wedding in Santa Barbara in July.
We're going to spend an extra week in that area after the wedding celebration.
We've been asking around for places of interest, things to do....
so far, whale watching, visiting the Mission and wineries...
I know we have Californians here.
If you have recommendations for that area - sightseeing, things to do, restaurants, activities...
please feel free to make suggestions.
Many thanks

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You handle says a lot, barefoot, and it's also my favorite pair of shoes lol...

I've lived and explored all along the CA coast from the Mexican border up into Oregon for more than 20 years. The Santa Barbara area is wonderful.

I'm happy to offer suggestions. What do you enjoy? Are you active, outdoorsy, beachy, foresty? Do you enjoy art and Culture? Are you foodies, high end Shoppers, or do you travel on a budget? Will you have a car?

You're welcome to PM me if you prefer.

Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 05/14/2025 11:59PM by SBP.

Don't forget Hearst's Castle. There are a lot of great places for surf fishing around San Simeon.

I am by no means an expert in the area, but the one thing I have the fondest memories of was the aquarium in Monterey. Plus the place on the coast where we saw all the sea lions up close, but I have no recollection of where that was.

You absolutely, positively, and unequivocally must eat at La Super Rica in Santa Barbara. Any specials and anything with their cream sauce are the way to go, but it's all amazing.

I lived in the area for a stretch, but was unaware of this gem until later.

It was one of Julia Child's favorite restaurants in the country.

Have synthesizers, will travel...

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/15/2025 02:03PM by CoolMusic.

So many places to choose right near the coast...Hearst's Castle, Carmel-By-The-Sea, Monterey, Monterey Bay, Venice Beach, Half-Moon Beach, and of course, Maverick's Beach!

But I'd say one of the overall great areas to get the central coast vibe from is San Luis Obispo. It just has that college town, spanish desert feel to it. I thought it was very interesting about 15 years ago.

We love visiting Cali. So many great places to see and parks to visit. It's just unfortunate that there are so many mental health issues. Maybe that's due to the frequent fault activity? Or the lack of four seasons? My mom once said it's due to the "westward-ho movement." Once people people moved west, reached the Pacific which stopped them, it spurred a mental heath issue. Whatever....

Enjoy!

It's a 3-hour (lovely) drive up the coast to Monterey from SB. The Aquarium is unique and worthwhile and there's a lot more to do there. Big Sur and Carmel by the Sea nearby are my "happy places." Hearst is on the way. Stop for lunch in Morrow Bay by the Big Rock and keep going. If you can fly out of Monterey (small and simple) or any of the Bay Area airports, you can also enjoy San Fran and Marin highlands/Napa. Amazing hiking, food, and photo ops all along the way.

There's also a botanical garden and art museum in SB if you prefer to stay local. The beaches are wonderful. Carpinteria is one of my fave spots sweet little town book-ended by Padaro Beach and Rincon.

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/15/2025 03:56PM by SBP.

I just remembered Solvang, it's worth a little extra driving for a day of scandanavian food and pastries. And Ostrich Land, but that would be a me thing, not everyone is excited about big birds and giant bird eggs as I am.

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Central California coast

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