Santa Barbara, dubbed The American Riviera, is nestled between the pristine beaches of California's central Pacific Ocean coastline and the base of the Santa Ynez Mountains. It's the Golden States' pride and joy and multiple-winner of the revered Conde Nast awards. Almost a stone's throw away from Los Angeles, the city is perfectly located for a soft-top weekend getaway.

Galapagos Islands of North America

Throughout the year, Santa Barbara boasts the perfect weather to explore. Don hats and silk scarves, sunglasses, strap a vintage suitcase to the back of the car, and head off for a weekend of adventure. If you time your trip well, you could be lucky enough to witness the migration of humpback, blue, gray, and killer whales as they journey 12,000 miles from the temperate climes of Baja to the glacial waters of Alaska.

The Channel Islands National Park is known as the Galapagos Islands of North America. It is home to over 100 species of flora and fauna unique to the five volcanic islands. The marine sanctuary has endless magical sea grottos in which seals, sealions, dive-bombing brown pelicans, cormorants, and gulls like to play.

Suitably named, the Santa Barbara Scenic Drive is a 25-mile route that can take you from an hour to an entire day. It encompasses the must-see sights of the area. From the harbor, you can idly watch the busy fishermen bringing in their daily hauls. Wander out to the breakwater, and you'll capture the vantage of the city set against the backdrop of the towering Santa Ynez mountains in your mind's eye. 

Belmond El Encanto Hotel

Base yourself at the Belmond El Encanto Hotel that lies on the verdant hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean's shores. The century-old Spanish Colonial-style craftsman bungalows sit proudly over seven terraces within the hotel's lush garden that is dotted with fragrant fruit trees. Climbing wisteria and tropical flowers surround the lily pond that takes center stage. The hotel is the secretive hideout retreat for the elite stars of the silver screen. Damien Hirst created a silkscreen with butterfly wings in diamond dust that hangs in the lobby, and in the dining room hangs Charles Arnoldi's dramatic abstract painting.

Although you probably won't want to leave the refreshing infinity pool, the deliciously sumptuous spa, or the expansive sea view terraces, we urge you to jump back into your vintage car and head to the local vineyards.

Ignore your maps and drive the exhilarating mountain Santa Ynez mountain pass. You'll leave behind the seascapes and the city as the mountains surround you. Please take a moment to stop and admire the view of Lake Cachuma and its magnificent backcloth of the San Rafael Mountains. It's a perfect run for a classic car.

Santa Barbara Wine Country

Perfectly enfolded between the two mountain ranges, Santa Barbara wine country boasts elevations from 200 feet in the valleys to 3400 feet on the hillside. The mountains traverse from east to west and are host to a medley of microclimates. The calcareous limestone maintains the essential acidity for fruity wines, such as elegant and sophisticated favorites Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc. They each possess the fresh yet velvety texture synonymous with the region. 

There is an overwhelming number of wine tasting experiences to choose from; if you are afraid of missing anything, The Stable can reserve a private tour, you can relax and let the guide lead you through various wineries and tasting rooms. Belmond El Encanto will provide you with a gourmet artisan picnic hamper that bursts with produce from their on-site garden or locally sourced meats and fish. The wine country is one of the world's most spectacular locations to learn about California's notable viticulture.

Graffiti Murals and Contemporary Art 

If you'd rather be city-based, then potter happily in Santa Barbara's Funk Zone. The converted warehouses and buildings are decorated with extraordinary graffiti murals and contemporary art pieces that authentically set the vibe for this vibrant suburb. There has been an impressive upswell of contemporary galleries, boutique tasting rooms, organic cafes, and artisanal shops in recent years. The Municipal Winemakers is a wine club that is affectionally known as Club Awesome is worth visiting and wiling away a few hours. The Blue Door is home to vintage and modern home goods that you'll want to take home.

In this section of town, you can also take yourselves on a walking wine trail, which is a self-guided self-discovery journey of the finest Santa Barbara County wines. You'll discover over 20 tasting rooms on your travels. Tease your tastebuds at The Lark, where the menu celebrates Central Coast fare and is romantically made for sharing. It gets booked up well in advance, so make sure to reserve a table.

Sunsets and Stars

Santa Barbara can brag about its sunsets. Stearns Wharf is a must historical see, and it is the oldest operating wooden pier in California. Built-in 1872, it's named after the builder John P. Stearns. The structure has been rebuilt a couple of times and owned by actor Jimmy Cagney and his brothers in the 1940's war years. The old ragged pier seemingly hovers over the ocean; it's the perfect place to be as the sun sets on the day.

To continue in the vein of romance and wine, Santa Barbara has a host of sailboats that you can charter for an unforgettable trip under the stars. Curl up together and watch the cities lights wink at their reflections in the sea. Bear witness to the moon as it climbs over the overbearing mountain silhouettes that stand tall in the night sky. For the more adventurous, night time paddleboarding is a delightful experience.

Wishing Wells and Gimlets

Upon returning to the Belmond El Encanto, seek out the little wishing well and make a wish under the stars. Your bungalow has a bathtub quite big enough for two, so nab Rocket Gimlets on your way past the bar; the mixologist uses fresh herbs and fresh arugula from the gardens for this signature cocktail. The exceedingly comfortable King-size bed is inviting with its high thread-count cotton sheets. Even the pillowcases will bear your initials. 

Lose yourself in Santa Barbara. It's a wonderfully romantic destination that merges mountains and shorelines. The American Riviera is postcard-perfect all year round, but with some careful planning, you can experience the vines' harvesting and maybe even see whales breaching. The Stable will ensure that your driving experience is a memorable journey. They will help you with mapping and some hidden gems that only a handful of people know are there.