Nestled between the American Riviera and the Channel Islands is the small beachside town, Santa Barbara.
If you're looking for a quick weekend escape, then look no further. Home to one of the most famous surf spots, Rincon Beach (hint: our Rincon Backpack), the Funk Zone, Santa Barbara Courthouse, and let's not forget the Parker Clay Flagship Store.
To help you have a truly authentic experience, we're here to offer our local expertise.
Cajé Coffee Roasters: Three unique locations in Santa Barbara, with our favorite being their Arlington location. It's ideal if you're having a slow Saturday morning and you're in the mood to be impressed. Sip on their cocktail-inspired Lattes and fill up on their famous Bagel Sandwiches.
Dart Coffee: Local, organic, and fair-trade. Dart Coffee is one of those coffee spots that, upon arrival, seems like any ordinary coffee shop. Most people don't know that there's a hidden garden across the street decorated with string lights, live music, and orange trees. Toss a book into your Abby Drawstring Backpack and enjoy the scenery for an hour or two.
Helena Avenue Bakery: If you're in the mood for a to-go coffee, swing by the bakery, grab a warm pastry, and take a walk to the Harbor along the bike path.
Californian-Inspired Shopping
Parker Clay Flagship: If you find yourself wandering up State Street searching for locally-owned boutiques, then look no further. Nestled along Anapamu Street, across from the Court House, you'll find yourself standing in front of our Flagship Store. With kombucha on Tap and an endless selection of all your favorite products, including our Santa Barbara-inspired Rincon Backpack, Miramar Backpack, and Topa Mini Bucket Bag, you'll find exactly what you were searching for.
Jake & Jones: For the perfect floral print dress to match your new Parker Clay bag, this sustainably-curated women's boutique is just a couple of blocks away. Plus, they have the most adorable selection of kids' clothing.
A Taste of Southern California
Secret Bao: Specializing in Modern Asian Cuisine, Secret Bao has only been open for a couple of weeks, yet it's already well-known thanks to their weekend pop-up at Handlebar Coffee. We recommended ordering the KFC (Korean Chicken Bao Bun), bringing your Parker Clay Gabi Blanket with you, and eating your meal across the street in the Sunken Gardens.
Third Window Brewing: Curated selection of local craft beer with a daily Popup Kitchen offering local foods ranging from sourdough pizzas to FP Ranch Wagyu Smashburgers depending on the day of the week. There's something for everyone here.
Hit the Beach
Rincon Beach: One of the most famous surf spots in California. Rincon is well-known for its ideal longboard wave. Winter is the best time to visit if you're looking to catch a wave or two, just make sure you're familiar with surf etiquette. If you rather sit back, soak up the sun on your Seaside Blanket, and admire the surf from shore park in the parking lot on the right, and head down the steps to the "Backside" of Rincon. (Photographed by Willie Kessel)
Miramar Beach: Not too long ago, Miramar was a quiet beach, where many of us local kids would leave pennies on the train track, and after a long day in the sun, hunt for the flattened treasures. It's still one of the most special beaches to bring your family to, walk towards the sunset, and play in the tide pools. Afterward, you can grab a cocktail or bite to eat at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Hotel for a view from above.
Let's Get Active
Bike Path: Take a stroll along past the Harbor and watch as the sailboats slowly sail in, pass Shoreline Cafe, and end at the top of Shoreline Park for a stunning view of the Channel Islands.
Inspiration Point: Just under 8-miles roundtrip and an elevation gain of 1,400 feet, the top of Inspiration Point will bring you to a breathtaking view of Santa Barbara. Start at Rattlesnake Trail and continue past the meadows, stay to the left and follow the signs until you reach the top. The best time to hike this trail is in the winter, where you'll find fresh pools of water along the first few miles.