Travel for 2 cost breakdown (at the time of writing this post):
- The Eagle Inn: $137 per night (A Toast the Moon Favorite!)
- Food/Entertainment/Transportation/Souvenirs: $1000
- GRAND TOTAL FOR 2 TRAVELERS – 4 days: $1548
***At this time, we are not endorsed by any outside affiliates. That said – when booking our trips, we have had a lot of success with Hotels.com, Skyskanner, and Tripmasters.
Booking
Toast the Moon always recommends using a passport. We also recommend TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry, because who wants to waste their vacation time in an airport line, am I right? Traveling around the United States is not difficult, but changes are in the air. Please be advised that as-of October 1, 2020 – basic drivers’ licenses will no longer be valid for identification in airports. Sign up for a passport or Real ID now to avoid complications later!
The Californian Riviera – Santa Barbara
Where do the rich and famous vacation in California? Where is SoCal’s wine country? Where are some of the most expensive and exclusive weddings held in the U.S.A.? Where can you be ritzy and casual all at once? Santa Barbara!
Santa Barbara is a dream city for lovers of beaches, flowers, wine, shopping, spas, and fun! Unlike Fort Bragg, Santa Barbara is NOT a secret. Everyone in California knows and enjoys the pleasures available here. The hustle and bustle brings a certain amount of fun, and the locals know it. They’ve even dedicated a whole neighborhood to fun vibes, drinks, and parties. They call it the “Funk Zone!”
However, Santa Barbara has retained a small town charm. Many of the State Street shop owners know each other and can make recommendations for visitors based on their relationships. You can feel like a local even if you are only able to spend a weekend.
Where to Stay
There are multiple options from discount hotel chains, to resorts, to inns and B&Bs in Santa Barbara. You can easily find something that will match both your goals and your budget. As for us – We loved The Eagle Inn! It was my birthday, as well as Thanksgiving weekend. And, in true Santa Barbara fashion, The Eagle Inn made us feel right at home. They upgraded our room, spread rose petals and delivered a gift of chocolates and wine for my birthday. It was above and beyond, and I want to make sure they receive a shout-out. Go visit them!
What to Do
Santa Barbara is a tourist destination. What do you like to do? Beach time, kayaking, boating, and paragliding? They’ve got that! Wine tasting, nice restaurants, cafes and shopping? Yep – that too! Spas, massage, hiking, relaxation and chill? Oh yeah! I’m pretty sure you can find an activity to fit everyone’s agenda.
We recommend State Street, the Funk Zone, Santa Barbara Harbor, Stearns Wharf, and Paso Nuevo Shops and Restaurants. We also recommend taking a drive inland to check out the historic town of Solvang. You will feel like you’ve landed in a small town in Denmark. It’s truly incredible! Definitely Instagram worthy!
Lastly, Santa Barbara is world renowned for their Uni (Sea Urchin). If you love uni, or if you’ve never tried it, you should definitely give it a go. It’s the “When in Rome” food to try. If interested, the Santa Barbara Fish Market is the place to go. They pull it directly out of the ocean, cut it open, serve it on a bed of ice and you’re good to go. Grab some chopsticks or a fork/spoon and enjoy while looking over the pier and contemplating if this is, perhaps, the most beautiful place on earth.
Toast the Moon Rating:
- Food and Drink: 9/10
- Culture/Locals: 10/10
- Things to Do: 9/10
- Adventure Opportunities: 9/10
- Cost: 9/10
- Total: 9.2/10 – Cheers!
Enjoy your adventure!
Toast the Moon – Cheers,
Noah and Majhon