couple laughing at each other surrounded by pink flowers

15 Exciting Things to Do in Santa Barbara for Couples

15 Exciting Things to Do in Santa Barbara for Couples

In this article, you’ll discover the top 15 things to do in Santa Barbara for couples. From beautiful beaches to historical landmarks and everything in between. Visit the most captivating places to explore in this charming coastal city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for hidden gems, I’ve got your ultimate Santa Barbara adventure covered.

As a Santa Barbara wedding photographer, I offer firsthand insights into the city’s most romantic locations for couples, ensuring that your experience in Santa Barbara is not only memorable but also exceptionally photogenic. 

Couple walking at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden as one of the 15 Exciting Things to Do in Santa Barbara for Couples

Romantic Things to Do in Santa Barbara

Elevate your romance with these handpicked experiences. Discover some of the most romantic things to do in Santa Barbara for couples and create lasting memories in this coastal paradise.

Sunrise Picnic at the Santa Barbara Mission

Witness a breathtaking sunrise with your loved one in a historic setting. The historic Santa Barbara Mission is surrounded by over 1,500 rose plants and a quaint little park. This park is perfect for setting up a picnic and watching the sunrise as the romance sparks.

 

Attend an Art Workshop at Art From Scrap

Unleash your creativity together with an art workshop at Art From Scrap. This unique shop is a program from Explore Ecology, an environmental education nonprofit. They offer various workshops and classes allowing attendees to look for new ways to see beauty in the ordinary.

 

Ganna Walska Lotusland

Explore the expansive gardens of Ganna Walska Lotusland. This 37-acre serene garden is a unique artistic haven with something new around every corner. Tickets for this experience tend to sell out, so be sure to plan your visit here well in advance. 

 

 

Don’t miss out on the chance to create timeless memories in Santa Barbara. Reach out for a personalized photography session! Talk to a photographer.

Horseback Riding at Circle Bar B Guest Ranch

What better way to see the romance and beauty of the area than by going horseback riding through the scenic hills of California? Circle Bar B Guest Ranch offers couples various different rides to explore the surrounding property. Private rides are also available which open up even more exclusive scenic locations.

 

Visit the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Visit the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and explore over 1,000 species of rare and native plant life. One of the garden’s most popular spots for couples is the meadows. Plan your visit around the seasonal super bloom to see this area come alive. 

 

Whale Watching Cruise with Condor Express

Experience the thrill of a whale watching cruise. Condor Express offers 4.5-hour cruises where couples may spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life. 

 

  • Address: 301 West Cabrillo Boulevard, Santa Barbara Harbor, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • Estimated Cost: $125 per person
  • Website: https://www.condorexpress.com/ 

Visit SOhO Restaurant & Music Club

In the heart of downtown Santa Barbara is the cozy SOhO restaurant and music club. Here you will find a large event calendar featuring music acts, movie nights, dancing classes, and more.

 

  • Address: 1221 State St STE 205, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • Estimated Cost: Varies based on event
  • Website: https://www.sohosb.com/ 

 

Capture the magic of your love story against the backdrop of Santa Barbara’s beauty. Get in touch for a unique photoshoot. Let’s talk.

silhouette of couple on beach at sunset

Santa Barbara Date Ideas

Kick the romance up a notch with some of the best Santa Barbara date ideas. Each unique experience offers a personalized way to celebrate your love.

Romantic Walk on Butterfly Beach

Located in the village of Montecito, couples can stroll hand in hand along the shores of Butterfly Beach. This beachfront is known for its golden sands and breathtaking sunsets and is a favorite among Santa Barbara locals.

 

Wine Tasting in the Santa Ynez Valley

The Santa Ynez Valley features over 120 different wineries that produce over 1 million cases of wine every single year. Savor local wines at one of these romantic wineries, where rolling vineyards create a beautiful setting.

 

  • Address: Various wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley.
  • Estimated Cost: $20-30 per person per tasting.

couple on bike in paso robles

Cabrillo Bike Path Moonlit Ride

Hit the trails and take a moonlit ride along the Cabrillo Bike Path, one of the most popular biking paths in the area. This 4.6 mile long path runs from Leadbetter Beach to Butterfly Beach.

 

couple on the dock ventura harborTake a Kayak and Snorkeling Trip in the Santa Barbara Harbor

Glide through some of the world’s longest downwind sea caves in a kayak and witness a unique side of Santa Barbara. Channel Island Expeditions offers multiple kayak and snorkeling tours of the caves as well as private charters.

 

Your love story deserves to be celebrated in style. Don’t miss out on preserving your memories. Talk to a photographer.

Pack a Beach Picnic at Shoreline Park

Enjoy a romantic picnic under the moonlight at Shoreline Park. This park provides wide open grassy areas to set up a picnic with Leadbetter Beach on one side and the city on the other.

 

Visit Funk Zone Santa Barbara

Visit one of the more artsy neighborhoods in Santa Barbara known as the Funk Zone. As you walk the cozy streets you’ll pass by vibrant murals, galleries, wine-tasting rooms, restaurants, and more creating. The Funk Zone creates a unique and creative date night experience.

 

  • Address: 137 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • Estimated Cost: Varies selected activities. 
  • Website: https://www.funkzone.net/ 

Visit the Rooftop Pool at The Kimpton Canary Hotel

One of the few rooftop pools you will find in the Santa Barbara area is at the Kimpton Canary Hotel. This rooftop pool and terrace offers 360 degrees of the area, a cozy fireplace, and a bar. The terrace is also used as a wedding venue for the hotel.

 

Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Embark on a romantic journey on a catamaran cruise to witness a stunning Santa Barbara sunset together. The Santa Barbara Sailing Center offers a year-round sunset cruise aboard The Double Dolphin. This cruise offers stunning views over the water as well as an on-board bar.

 

 

Your love is a story waiting to be told. Create a visual love story that will last a lifetime. Reach out for a personalized photography session.

Related and Frequently Asked Questions

What is Santa Barbara Known For?

Santa Barbara is known most for its stunning coastal beachfront. It also is known for its Mediterranean-inspired architecture, excellent wineries, and vibrant arts scene.

How Can I Make My Date Night Special?

To make your date night special in Santa Barbara, consider intimate experiences. This can be things like a beach bonfire, sunset sailing, or a romantic dinner at a scenic restaurant. Personalize the evening to your partner’s interests and create meaningful memories.

How Can I Surprise My Boyfriend on a Date Night?

Surprise your boyfriend on a date night by planning unique activities. Organize a surprise sunset picnic, arrange a scenic hike, or even set up a treasure hunt that leads to a special gift or message. Thoughtful gestures and unexpected moments can make the date night memorable and filled with surprises.

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