Tee ‘Em Up!

What's your handicap, friend? Actually, whether or not you're a scratch player or into double digits, Santa Barbara spells "Golf." There are few better spots where fine weather, the number of courses from which to choose, and the beauty of the greens and fairways all combine to create a golfer's Nirvana. Play a championship course by the Pacific Ocean where sea breezes chase your ball, in peaceful valleys where groundskeepers have mastered their art, or in rolling foothills where nearby mountains and forests peak over your shoulder.

Coastal Cruise

Come on a private charter and get away from all of those interruptions of everyday life. It’s a great stress reliever and wonderful way to see Santa Barbara’s spectacular coastline. Cruises can begin with a narrated tour of the Santa Barbara Harbor, local vessels, along with a brief history of the harbor and waterfront. And whale watching season runs from February until May!

America’s “Mini” Cup…Santa Barbara Style

Ahoy! Climb aboard with your shipmates and compete in this mini-America Cup Race. This event is correctly called a "regatta“. Each of our 30 or 50-foot vessels carries a crew of six. Don't count on the skipper for help other than as a guide. Now you're on your own sailor, when you challenge the other boats in a marvelous, mad dash that combines wind, water and your expertise. But no experience is really necessary as you'll learn soon enough how to trim the mast and tack into the breeze.

Biking Adventures

Santa Barbara offers a wide variety of biking adventures from the Santa Ynez wine county to a leisurely ride in downtown Santa Barbara to a downhill thrill from the highest peak in Santa Barbara to the Mission below. Enjoy scenic views from any of the options whether it be up windy Gibraltar Road with panoramic views of the city, the Channel Islands and the coast or of the spectacular rolling hills of the Santa Ynez Valley dotted with wineries and vineyards. While off road jeeping across the beautiful mountains guests will take in views of the Pacific Ocean and our coastline from Rincon to Point Conception.

Jeep Adventures

Experience Santa Barbara in a whole new way while offroading in an open-air jeep. Adventures start from the Valley floor and ascend to above four thousand feet into the beautiful Santa Ynez Mountain Range located in the rugged backcountry of the Los Padres National Forest. Experienced drivers will narrate along the way and provide interesting history and short vignettes about the region as well as the area's plant and wildlife.

Coastal Kayak Adventure

Feeling adventurous? Start at the harbor and experience Santa Barbara’s magnificent coastline, with towering mountain peaks and sweeping beaches from a rarely seen vantage-point, in a sea kayak. After a brief sea kayak introductory lesson, guests will launch and paddle eastward toward the heart of the Santa Barbara waterfront, past Stearns Wharf towards Montecito. A prevailing breeze at your back and a “downhill” current make this trip particularly enjoyable for the first time kayaker.

Sittin’ High In The Saddle

Happy Trails To You! It's no wonder Dale Evans and Roy Rogers made it look so glamorous and easy when they loped along picturesque trails. At a trot, canter, or gallop guests will truly feel at home in the saddle. Whether a tenderfoot or an experienced rider, guests will revel in the pristine settings of either a natural coastal countryside or along the sandy beaches of the Pacific. So sit tall in the saddle and wind along mountain paths, through woods, across streams, up and down canyons or along the surf.

Deep Sea Fishing

One doesn't have to be like Ernest Hemingway's "The Old Man and The Sea” to enjoy a deep sea fishing experience, thanks to seasoned Captains. They will show guests how to enjoy the denizens of the deep while waiting for the hook to hit the water. The abundant kelp beds in sheltered Santa Barbara Harbor supply perfect feed for the game fish waiting to be caught. Sea bass, halibut, rockfish and red snapper are abundant. Overhead a great variety of birds seem like ships' pilots as they lead the way to our fishing destination. Worries and cares can be left behind with the landlubbers when the big one is reeled in.

Dreamin’ Of California Citrus

Beyond the majestic hills of Santa Barbara, lies a rich agricultural region. On this evening, we have planted a sampling of our California region within the hotel’s ballroom. Guests will enter the ballroom, embracing the punctuating aroma of freshly picked citrus wafting through the air. Tivoli lights will be frivolously streaming from the ceiling and cascading from the trees. Tables will alternate between Lime, Tangerine and Lemon Yellow bengaline underskirts that are accented with rich warm-toned organza overlays. In the center of each table are clusters of Tangerines, Lemons and Limes pomandered together and accented with taper candles.

Midnight Blue Supper Club

The ambience of the evening promises to conjure thoughts of romance and the days when life seemed like easy living. As guests are welcomed into the ballroom, they will be entranced by the deep blue fabrics on the walls and dinning tables along with the flickering candlelight from blue mosaic hurricanes on the tables. A full banking of assorted palm trees scattered in grouping around the perimeter of the room will complete the “club” look. Tonight’s entertainment will bring all to a familiar time of the “Rat Pack” music of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr., Dean Martin and many more. .

California Beach Blanket Bash

Guests arrive to the Beach and find themselves transported to Classic California, straight out of a fabulous sixties surf film…they will delight in an array of décor ranging from tiki torches and giant palm trees lit in colorful colors to vintage longboards and bright primary colored beach towels used as table settings. And the sixties music that is being played is sure to bring back some memories!

An Elegant Winemaker’s Dinner

Just north of Santa Barbara, the magic ingredients of soil, climate and skill combine to make great wines. Tonight the magic of the wine country comes alive, where a golden evening of elegance amidst a setting of grapevines and greenery awaits the guests for a Winemaker's Dinner. Guests will have the opportunity to tour the winery all the while sampling some of Barbara’s best wines. Wines will be paired with each course and as each course is presented guests will learn about the wine and the suitability with the dish.

Flag Is Up Farms Wins By A Mile!

On a gorgeous Santa Ynez Valley 150-acre spread, imagine the pleasure and privilege of visiting the West's most famous horse trainer’s corral and home! Monty Roberts and wife, Pat, provide a true western welcome at their "Flag Is Up Farms.” Over 300 thoroughbreds thrive here. An equestrian's dream school that graduates famous champions. Even England's Queen Elizabeth calls upon Monty Roberts’ skills. Watch in wonder at the starting ring where a training demonstration of a yearling takes place before your eyes. On the terrace of the Robert’s home, lip-smacking barbecue, foot stomping music, even line dancing, add to the "training" in wonderful western ways.

Flag Is Up Farms Wins By A Mile!

On a gorgeous Santa Ynez Valley 150-acre spread, imagine the pleasure and privilege of visiting the West's most famous horse trainer’s corral and home! Monty Roberts and wife, Pat, provide a true western welcome at their "Flag Is Up Farms.” Over 300 thoroughbreds thrive here. An equestrian's dream school that graduates famous champions. Even England's Queen Elizabeth calls upon Monty Roberts’ skills. Watch in wonder at the starting ring where a training demonstration of a yearling takes place before your eyes. On the terrace of the Robert’s home, lip-smacking barbecue, foot stomping music, even line dancing, add to the "training" in wonderful western ways.

A Private Event At Casa De Corte

At night the Courthouse gleams like a jewel in a setting of bright lights. This 1929 building is recognized as one of the nation’s most outstanding public buildings for both its exterior and interior. Look up at the handpainted ceilings; feast your eyes on the wondrously carved doors; admire the masterful wrought-iron fixtures; marvel at the exquisite designs of the imported Tunisian tiles. In the Mural Room, two-story murals depict historical events in the area. This breath-taking room is one choice for an incredibly elegant and intimate evening where guests can be dazzled by Flamenco dancers who coyly bewitch them as they whirl on the dance floor.

Private Sail On The “Channel Cat”

There is no better way to show off Santa Barbara than cruising her spectacular coastline aboard this 85’-foot and 41’ wide fiberglass catamaran which is currently the largest fiberglass catamaran in the world. This 3,000-sq. ft. luxury catamaran can accommodate 80 guests for a sit down dinner in the main cabin and 140 guest’s reception style. The “Channel Cat” features a full commercial galley, 17’ Birdseye Maple deluxe bar, two deluxe powder rooms, five televisions, a full entertainment center, and beautiful teak wood tables with matching chairs.

Santa Barbara Museum Of Art

Reflect on the past and celebrate the present during a private evening at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. The doors open to reveal the sensuous Greek marbles and frescoes in a lovely atrium. Guests will stroll the halls filled with the work of masters through the ages. And the music can match the art. In the contemporary gallery, a soulful cello reflects the modern mood, while amid the Renaissance art, a classical guitar might serenade. Definitely a night to remember!

Santa Ynez Valley And Vineyards! Ah, The Nectar Of The Grape!

Begin with a breathtaking drive from Santa Barbara through the Santa Ynez Mountains and embrace views of majestic mountains and sweeping valleys. And to think there are over 30 wineries to choose from in Santa Barbara Wine Country! Explore Los Olivos, a quaint western town offering an enclave of art galleries, tasting rooms and antique shops or wander through the enchanted town of Solvang with windmills, gaslights, and cobblestone walkways. As the journey continues, guests are likely to see miniature horses and ostriches before reaching the Pacific Ocean and winding our way back to Santa Barbara.

Enchanted Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is one of the most beautiful small cities in the world. With the historical architecture, guests will certainly feel transported back years to a time and place formerly found only in storybooks. A variety of attractions can be included in this tour from Old Mission Santa Barbara, called “Queen of the Missions” to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, one of the most beautiful public buildings in the U.S. Other options include the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, El Presidio de Santa Barbara, Spain's last government outpost in America, or Stearns Wharf.

The Artists Of Santa Barbara

Diminutive by big city standards, yet Santa Barbara hosts a connoisseurs' collection of sculpture, pottery, and priceless glassware. Discover the treasures and treats among trellised walkways, beautiful courtyards and sparkling fountains as one slips away into hidden passageways to visit various studios and galleries of fine artists.

Garden And Estate Tour

With a plentitude of gardens and estates in Santa Barbara, it is hard to pick which one’s to visit. From some of the most unusual gardens in America to the award winning Botanic Gardens, guests will find beauty like no other. For instance, enjoy a docent lead tour of Lotusland, a 37-acre living museum of gardens, considered to be the “Smithsonian” of American Gardens. Or what about Casa del Herrero, noted for its 11 acres of Moorish gardens and adjoining Andalusian casa. For those who want a genuine escape from city life, the Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens offers an amazing multitude of plants that are native to this blessed state.

Santa Barbara Shopping

Stroll down colorful State Street, where guests can delight in a sampling of boutiques, galleries and cafes, all the while absorbing the charming and distinctive scenery. Venture through Paseo Nuevo Mall, a unique, old-style shopping arcade that will take your breath away with its authentic Spanish style architecture and upscale department stores. It is magic revealed in its quiet courtyards and bustling plazas.

Hearst Castle

On a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean, craftsmen labored nearly 28 years to create a magnificent estate of 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools, and walkways. Its name is La Cuesta Encantada—“The Enchanted Hill.” Better known as Hearst Castle, it was once the home of newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst. After Mr. Hearst’s death in 1951, it was donated to the State of California. Today it is a State Historical Monument, its richness and beauty preserved by the California State Parks.

J. Paul Getty Museum

The J. Paul Getty Museum seeks to delight, inspire, and educate the public; and is waiting for your visit. Come and see for yourself. This permanent collection of European arts and antiquities is housed in five interconnected pavilions that surround a central courtyard dotted with gardens, fountains and reflecting pools; designed by noted architect Richard Meier. Among the collection's highlights are Vincent Van Gogh's Irises, paintings and a group of drawings by Rembrandt, Andrea Mantegen's Adoration of the Maji and many others.

Crossroads Meadow

Firestone Vineyard proudly presents their newly renovated Crossroad Meadow• Set against the backdrop of the historic Crossroads Estate and overlooking Firestone Vineyard• Features an elegantly rustic pole barn complete with French windows and doors, a raised entertainment stage and beautiful flagstone flooring• The adjacent meadow unfolds as a beautiful oak-studded expanse of manicured grass for additional event opportunities• Savor an evening of delicious delicacies, fine wine, and the beauty of vineyards, lavender fields, oak trees and rolling hills

Behind the Art Scenes

Experience art where it begins with Santa Barbara’s Tour de Arte. • Our new guided art tour provide guests with a behind the scenes visit to professional artists in their work spaces. • Meet the artists and watch as they produce their particular art from acrylics to watercolor, abstract to still life, the artists’ works span a diversity of mediums and styles. • Santa Barbara hosts over 50 artists

“Sideways” in Santa Barbara

Enjoy an unforgettable journey as guests taste their way and visit highlighted “hot spots” from the film “Sideways”. • Authentic “Sideways” Maps • “Sideways” trivia enroute linking the dots of the film’s shoot locations • Follow the map to Firestone Winery, Fess Parker Winery or “Frass Canyon” as it is known in the film and Kalyra Winery • Picnic lunch overlooking the Santa Ynez Valley or Lunch at Los Olivos Café • Although guests can’t run with the Ostriches like Jack did in the film, they will enjoy seeing these fine featured friends with a stop at Ostrich Land