home tour santa barbara

Home Tour | Santa Barbara Home by Corinne Mathern

• LOCATION Santa Barbara, California
• INTERIOR DESIGN Corinne Mathern
• ARCHITECTURE Dovetail Architects
• BUILD Allen Construction
• PHOTOGRAPHY Nicole Franzen
• WORDS Holly Beadle

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See How This Designer Turned a SoCal Craftsman Into a Sun-Drenched Haven

Design: Lauren Henno Design, Photo: Studio Arna

Sometimes inspiration hits at just the right time. Santa Barbara-based interior designer, Lauren Henno , had a vision for this one bedroom, two bathroom home and guesthouse after her very first walk-through.

"The home would be casual, yet elegant, and most definitely eclectic, blending soft linens that reflect the comfort of Santa Barbara living with uniquely modern pieces to bring interest to the eye and aesthetic to the home," Henno, who started her own interior design firm at age 24, says. "Throughout the entirety of the project, I would reflect on my initial vision, and it was a blast bringing it to life."

With a total spend of around $150,000, Henno transformed the dark and dated 2,287 square foot home into a relaxed retreat.

"I wanted the space to resemble a jewel box, something that was petite and small, yet when you walked inside it would have a wow factor," Henno says.

I wanted the space to resemble a jewel box, something that was petite and small, yet when you walked inside it would have a wow factor.

Keep scrolling to see how Henno nailed this aesthetic in an original craftsman home built in 1900.

With plenty of art and places to display personal mementos and tchotchkes, Henno made understated eclecticism front and center of this sunny home.

"My client had moved cross country with no furniture, and we began with a blank canvas," Henno says. "My objective was for the casual, elegant, and eclectic feel to flow throughout the home."

Nailing an unfussy vibe from multiple eras was top of mind for Henno as she bought furniture and planned out the space.

"If a bohemian antique piece was chosen for a room, I would add a more modern piece such as a Danish modern chair to create interest and a juxtaposition," Henno says. "It was important to me to maintain this balance throughout the home." 

Though the home seems warm and sunny now, the floors needed a major overhaul to brighten up the space.

"Original hardwood floors existed throughout the home, though they were masked with a dark and dingy brown waxed finish," Henno says. "My goal was to revive them, and bring life to their hidden beauty. After removing the dull coating, I knew I had to bleach out the yellow and red tones in the natural wood. Once bleaching was completed, I added a layer of white finish, to yield a light wheat hue. They turned out better than I could have ever imagined, and brightened the beauty of the home’s original charm! "

The home had plenty of special features that Henno and her client saved, painting the walls and fireplace white to open up the space and make it feel larger.

"The original wainscoting, picture railings, beadboard paneling, hardwood floors, leaded windows, and brick fireplace have all been preserved," Henno says. "We brightened and updated their features by painting the original brick fireplace white and bleaching and lightening the floors."

The bedroom is simple with white walls and bedding, with little bursts of color that mimic the same shades used throughout the home. Henno saw two velvet fabrics, one a dusty rose pink and the other a faded turquoise, and used those shades as inspiration for the home.

"I love working with neutrals and white, though I knew this home needed a pop of color," Henno says. "When I saw these two colors I fell in love with them... they were exactly what I had subconsciously envisioned and had been looking for!" 

This area of the guesthouse, though small, makes a big impression thanks to the eye-catching four poster bed, but the neutral walls and trim keep the space from feeling overwhelmed.

"It was important to make the petite home appear larger by keeping things light and open," Henno says.​ "​Therefore we created a neutral base and palette by painting the walls and brick fireplace white, as well as bleaching and lightening the floors." 

A sunny Santa Barbara home wouldn't be complete with some outdoor space. This craftsman boasts a covered al fresco dining area and fenced-in backyard.

This home falls under Henno's California design aethestic ("simple, graceful, yet comfortable"), but her best decorating advice has a certain Golden State wisdom and optimism too.

"Wear positive lenses and always seek out the opportunity," she says.

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We are offering small docent-led tours. Tickets are released via email every few months and usually sell out quickly. Become a Supporter to be added to our list. We are actively working with the City of Santa Barbara for approval of a Conditional Use Permit which will allow for even greater public access. As permitting is approved, we will expand tour sizes and frequency. The property is a historic landmark and much of the interior furnishings are antiques. Opening for tours is a gradual process that requires a thoughtful approach to ensure the property is protected.

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This Small California Cottage is Brimming with Big Style

With pared-down furnishings and functional collections, a Santa Barbara couple made the most of every square inch of their quaint (1,300 sq. ft.!) casita.

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After halfheartedly looking at four other, larger properties, the Motschenbachers returned to the blue-and-white casita on that pretty (if not overgrown) piece of land. Kelley, a designer and Greg, a project manager, realized that the home’s boundless potential outweighed the negatives of a tiny footprint. “It just needed some love,” says Kelley. While Kelley had to think long and hard every time she brought a piece into a small room, she says she wouldn’t trade small-scale living for all the square footage in the world. She’s been there, done that.

Take a tour of every style-packed corner...

Airy and Comfortable Living Room

Throughout the house Kelley had all of the original white oak floors re-stained a driftwood gray and removed layers and layers of old paint from the walls. Once the original walls were revealed, she hired a local master craftsman to stucco throughout, and then left them natural.

In the petite living room, she wanted a sofa that could fit beneath the arched windows, but not one that felt comically slight. The solution: a just-right 76-inch custom piece that can accommodate two people. A pair of equally scaled-down wingbacks reinforces the idea that small furniture needn’t feel modern nor minimalist. A square antique table (cut down from a taller table) completes the puzzle, and a simple lantern provides plenty of light without breaking up the space.

Get the look: Hanging Lantern: Small Lantern by Chapman & Myers

Vintage Style Throughout

Furnishing the house presented a whole new set of challenges. “I really like antiques because they’re often weird, nontraditional sizes that are ideal for smaller rooms,” Kelley says. Her collection of Hubley dog door stops sit (and stay) on the living room mantel.

Get the look: Cast Iron Dogs: Vintage Dog Door Stops for a similar look

A Simple, Hardworking Kitchen

High on the priority list was bringing the 1980s kitchen into the new millennium. A narrow rolling island—“It’s our mobile cutting board,” says Kelley—with industrial legs provides the perfect prep space. Honed concrete countertops and Italian porcelain floors both offer soft, subtle contrast to the room’s airy white palette.

Get the look: Rolling Island: Maple top work table by John Boos Countertops: Raw Concrete by Ceasarstone

Open Storage

“I wanted the room to be simple—just a place to cook a nice meal. I didn’t want an over-the-top kitchen, full of over-scaled things,” Kelley says.

A Compact Range Nook

After replacing a massive Thermador stove with a more right-sized model, the Motschenbachers installed a petite shiplapped hood that adds understated character instead of heavy, hulking metal. To keep spices and ingredients easily accessible, Kelley outfitted custom shelving with hand-rolled steel brackets .

Get the look: White Paint Color: Super White by Benjamin Moore Range: 5 burner Thermador stove Pot Rack: Mount wall rack for a similar look

A Room for Two Dining Room

In the dining room, an X-brace dining table positioned on the diagonal maximizes space and enhances the flow between rooms. And because the couple primarily entertains on the adjacent gravel patio, there is no need to force four or six seats around it. Instead, two oversize seagrass chairs are substantial enough to carry the space.

Get the look: Chairs: Seagrass dining chair by The London Factory Table: Trestle dining table for a similar look

A Dreamy Bedroom

For the bedroom (that was converted from a sleeping porch) Kelley searched high and (mostly) low for a king bed with a low-profile headboard that could fit beneath the window. Simple white 8-inch-wide tables fill the remaining space on either side (and seamlessly blend in with the surrounding white shiplap). An acrylic-legged woven bench offers seating, and a cheerful bolster adds color and pattern without competing with the view (which is provided thanks to a new wall of windows that crank open).

Get the look: Bed: Copenhagen bed for a similar look Upholstered Bench: Modern bedroom benches for a similar look

Spacious Bathroom

An oversize mirror in the home’s only bathroom enhances the space’s sunny disposition, and two large sconces complement its heft. Blue-gray cabinetry offers ample storage.

Get the look: Mirror: Studio framed wall mirror by Pottery Barn Sconces: Single sconce bathroom lighting for a similar look

Laundry Room

In the mudroom/laundry room, a sampling of Kelley’s many woven totes and baskets—“One of my weaknesses!” she says—conceals odds and ends while adding a textural touch to the wall. A small antique bench offers additional storage for gardening supplies or the next load of laundry.

Get the look: Bench: Antique benches for a similar look Woven Tote: French market basket for a similar look

Outdoor Dining Room

The California sunshine, cafe lights, and a long teak table make for an exceptional al fresco ­dining experience. “If it’s sunny, we’re outside,” Kelley says. Millie the dog basks in the Golden State glow.

Get the look: Table: Gather table from DWR Chairs: Director's Chair by Serena & Lily for similar look

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A Pick-Your-Party Guide to Spring

Dogwood-Themed Spring Party

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Tour a Home That Blends California Cool With Old School Charm

A Santa Barbara residence gets a significant update.

Published Sep 22, 2017 6:00 PM

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At first glance, this Santa Barbara home appears to emulate a classic whitewashed, breezy California look.

However, a closer inspection reveals globally-inspired accent pieces that lend an old school charm to the otherwise fresh and modern space. It’s a signature design aesthetic that interior designer Lauren Christine Henno has become known for; influenced by her travels and studies abroad, she seeks to incorporate those worldly pieces into her projects while keeping the overall decor rooted in a clean, coastal look.

In the lead image: Celandon House Jasmin Sofa ; Danish Design FH429 Signature Chair , $3,465

When designing this one bedroom, two bath home for a client (there’s also a guest house-turned-art studio hidden in the back of the house), Henno sought to update the previously uninspiring home with some newer, brighter pieces. Built in 1900, the house had lots of older, darker features—such as dark hardwood floors and a red brick fireplace—not quite compatible with a breezy California vibe. With the help of an architect, she transformed the space into a calming oasis.

We spoke to the designer to learn more about how she blended two different design aesthetics.

In this image: Anthropologie Alcazar Pendant , $398; Artwork above bed by Karin Shelton

What did home look like before?

The difference is drastic. The floors were really dark with a wax finish, and there was a red brick fireplace that I painted white. Because it was such a small space we really wanted to open it up and keep it white and bright—but at the same time, we wanted it to feel homey and kind of eclectic.

In this image: Artwork above the fireplace by Cassandria Blackmore

Were there any challenges associated with renovating an older home?

Since the house was built in such an early age, it definitely has its quirks! I try to think of challenges as opportunities. We renovated the entire master bathroom—knocked down walls, changed the tiling, and took out the floors—which was an ordeal to say the least. It was probably the most challenging part of the home.

In this image: Artwork by Taylor K Williams

What topped the client’s wishlist?

Furniture. My client moved from Miami without any furniture at all, so we rented the furniture for a little bit while I established the floor plan, did the bathroom remodel, and refinished the floors. I did everything from ordering the mattresses to picking out the colors!

What was your inspiration behind the decor?

My clients tend to be my source of inspiration behind each project, but I know how to tailor it so it all comes together and looks cohesive. Here, my client has more of a quirky style so my goal was to make it eclectic yet clean and comfortable and create a home that felt like her little haven.

In this image: Anthropologie Lacquered Regency Desk , $1,998; Branca Lisboa Aranha Chair

Is there a phrase you’d use to describe the look of the finished home?

“Eclectic Maison”: I love the eclecticness of European style, which is why I threw in the French word “maison” there to represent that.

The finished space is very “California”; it’s light-filled, there are lots of natural textures, and it adheres to a light colour palette. But also has some more antique-looking pieces mixed in; how did you navigate that balance?

I like keeping things simple to give that fresh, clean California, so we kept the base palette neutral to preserve that feel. Then, it’s all about adding in textures and colors to bring in that warmth. So we’ll have wooden furniture mixed with a crushed velvet ottoman; basically, just not repeating the same thing over and over again.

In this image: West Elm Splat Dining Chair , $129.99; Anthropologie Tallis Teardrop Chandelier , $998

How did you bring in a global sensibility to the home?

By sourcing unique pieces from all over! So for example, bringing in Moroccan lanterns and adding a big blanket at the end of the bed that is woven in Mexico. I just incorporate more globally-inspired pieces.

In this image: Wisteria Disappearing Console , $658.97; Arteriors Home Yasmin Desk Lamp , $672

Can you talk a little about your use of textures?

Well, I used natural linens for the sofas, and the [dining] bench is just wood… I tend to keep the larger pieces somewhat basic so that the accessories can kind of be the jewelry and add a finishing touch. If the essential pieces are more simple, then I can incorporate the fun layering pieces.

In this image: Wisteria Rattan Magazine Holder , $59.97

Favorite part of the home?

Definitely the daybed—it was so fun to design! I love how it just fits into that little nook, and you can really just curl up there.

Photography by Arna Bajraktarevic.

See more home tours:

Casa de la Guerra

Image of Casa de la Guerra courtyard.

15 East De la Guerra Street, Santa Barbara, California

Hourly parking is available nearby in a public parking lot at 115 E. Canon Perdido Street. The lot is operated by Santa Barbara Valet, Inc. through the paybyphone.com   a p p. 

Open Thursday through Sunday, from 12 to 4 p.m.

$5 for adults, $4 for seniors (62+), Free for SBTHP members, SNAP/EBT and CalFresh cards, and children 16 & under. Includes admission to El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park .

To arrange a guided tour or for more information contact SBTHP at (805) 965-0093.

Before You Visit

View the Casa de la Guerra brochure . 

Your visit to Casa de la Guerra includes a rich, atmospheric experience of a family home in nineteenth-century Santa Barbara. You will be invited to explore furnished rooms, including an office, sala (living room), bedroom, and store, which appear as though the family has just stepped away. An orientation area prepares you with information about the de la Guerra family, the mostly Chumash servants who worked there, and the changing appearance of the house over three generations. Our knowledgeable staff is there to support your visit and answer your questions.

This adobe residence was constructed between 1818 and 1828 for José de la Guerra, the fifth comandante of the Presidio. In addition to his military post, de la Guerra acquired four large ranchos, ran an active commercial trade enterprise and served as the patriarch for the local community. Casa de la Guerra home was the social, political, and cultural center of Santa Barbara during the Mexican period (1821-1848). José’s children and grandchildren occupied the building until 1943, when the Casa was fully incorporated into the El Paseo complex. In the 1990s, the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation restored the building to its appearance between 1828 and 1858.

Casa de la Guerra is a popular site for community and private events. Each year SBTHP produces free educational programs for the community in the Casa Courtyard including Día de los Muertos Craft Day  and Una Noche de Las Posadas . You can check our calendar to see what is coming up! To inquire about using the Casa for your own event, click here . 

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Fernald Mansion Tour

An outstanding example of the Victorian Queen Anne style of architecture in Santa Barbara is the Charles Fernald home at 414 West Montecito Street. A sheriff, attorney, judge, and mayor, Charles Fernald was one of the city's most prominent figures in the last half of the 19th century. The house, with many of its original furnishings, was saved from demolition and moved to its present site by the Historical Museum in 1959 and today is open for public tours.

Santa Barbara Historical Museum 136 E De La Guerra St

visit website

Date and Time for this Past Event

• Saturday, May 19, 2018    11am-12pm

Designer Homes

Inside kendall conrad’s easy, elegant santa barbara home.

L.A. designer Kendall Conrad , known for her line of timeless, buttery-soft leather and suede bags, shoes, and accessories, had a vision when she first saw the 1942 Mediterranean property she now calls home. It was 1998, and after a lengthy real estate hunt in Los Angeles with husband/photographer David Cameron , the couple headed north to visit some properties in Montecito, close to where Kendall grew up.

“I thought, ‘Oh God, I’m not moving back to Santa Barbara,’” laughs Kendall. “But we ended up looking and after seeing 10 houses or so, I walked in and that was it.”

“It” was an image she saw while touring the home and its gardens. “This was the house I wanted to raise my children in,” reminisces Kendall, who was eight months pregnant at the time and now has two daughters, Luisa and Fernanda. “The space… it just moved me.” After a heartfelt letter to the owners, it was theirs. “My kids had the childhood I dreamed for them.”

With open, well-appointed rooms, seven cozy fireplaces, and sunshine streaming through every window and door, it’s dreamy indeed. “It has a very bohemian vibe and is in tune with the nature around it,” Kendall says. Bordered by abundant gardens and a winding creek, the home is just minutes to the area’s scenic beaches. “I’ve lived in New York, Paris, and London, but my husband and I are both from California, and we wanted this life.”

Combining finds from travels with family heirlooms, classical and clean-lined furniture, eclectic art, and lots of texture, the home is not unlike her eponymous accessories collection: neutral, sophisticated, and relaxed with a dash of worldly glamour. Tour the Shangri-la that Kendall shares with her family (including wirehaired dachshunds Ollie and Georgie) and discover her insider guide to Santa Barbara.

“This entry introduces you to the house, so you get the vibe right off the bat,” says Kendall. The airy, edited space has a Colombian credenza, woven leather stools, and iron candlesticks from a shop on Portobello Road in London. A Kendall Conrad L’Aventura bag rests on the stone floor.

When I saw the house and garden I thought, ‘This is magical. I want little children running around playing with frogs by the creek and running around the fruit trees.’ — Kendall Conrad

In the office, a wall of personal artwork surrounds an Indian sofa. “There’s a portrait of my grandmother, a colorful monkey my friend painted,, and I did the blue tiger when I was 12,” Kendall says. The Moroccan rug is from a favorite local shop, Upstairs at Pierre Lafond.

Really, we should be in a white box with five modern pieces, because we both gravitate toward that. But this home fits a cozy family life. Maybe we’ll do the white box one day. — Kendall Conrad

In her office, which she describes as “the most ‘me’ room in the house,” Kendall sits with one of her wirehaired dachshunds, Ollie. Her jewelry and sandals are from her chic accessories line. The portrait in the background is by daughter Luisa.

“I love my office because of the fireplace and all of my children’s art.” A leather-wrapped chair sits with a Portuguese desk. On top, Kendall has personal photos and some of her cherished bull collection. “I’m a Taurus, and my father was a bullfighter in Spain,” she says. “So they’re symbolic to me.”

Kendall and David painted many of the dark exposed beams white to lighten things up. A George Smith sofa and two vintage armchairs suit the long rectangular room. The large leather ottoman? “It’s a Kendall Conrad original,” she says.

Kendall’s father, an artist, sketched the portrait of a matador. Shells from family trips spill out of a silver tray. “Some are from the Maldives, Hawaii, Majorca—we always bring some back,” Kendall says. The chest is Spanish and conceals the television.

Inspiration? Everything you look at gets in. We have these rocks on our beach that are cognac, black, and white. I call them calico rocks. They inspired my recent collection. — Kendall Conrad

“This is the family table,” says Kendall. “We have dinner, the girls do their homework.” It was reimagined from an antique Spanish door. The rattan chairs add airy space. A vase by potter Miri Mara sits near striped cups by a local artisan.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s modern or traditional, it just has to have the best lines,” says Kendall of her criterion when choosing furnishings. In the library, George Smith armchairs mix with a Moroccan rug and a mesmerizing mobile by Ken Korten.

The built-ins of the library hold many of the things that inspire Kendall and her designs. “Everything gets in,” she says. “Photography, fashion, sculpture, nature.” The woven pedestal table is from William Laman. Also tucked in the shelves are her father’s matador’s hat, an Egyptian Coptic cross, and a leather box made by Kendall.

People feel really cozy and at home here. The house appears small at first, but it keeps opening up to you all the way down to the creek. It never feels vast or lonely. — Kendall Conrad

This kitchen is not just for show. “That stove is constantly in use,” says Kendall. “And our table is always full of fresh produce from our garden.” A silver ice bucket corrals wooden spoons beneath iron and copper pots. A painting by Kendall’s sister, Cayetana hangs above a traditional tagine.

Shelving in the kitchen shows off Kendall’s love of global earthenware. “The pieces are from all over,” says Kendall. “Plates from Mexico, a pre-Columbian pot, trays from Fiji. The rosemary and lemon are from our garden. I eat a lot of pineapple, but I also love the way they look on a counter.”

In one of the gardens, a bistro set stands ready for an idyllic rendezvous. “That’s David and my little spot,” says Kendall. “We like to sit there in the evening and have some wine.” A leopardwood bowl holds blood oranges from one of the citrus trees.

The master suite is a serene, breezy retreat. The centerpiece is a striking wood-and-wicker bed and set of nightstands “They’re custom by Brenda Antin and a future heirloom for our daughters,” Kendall says. Nightstand essentials? “Books, lip balm, and hand cream.” The bedding is Matteo.

It doesn’t matter if it’s modern or traditional; it just has to be right for the space and mix well. I think good lines work together regardless of when they were made. — Kendall Conrad

“I spend a lot of time in this tub,” says Kendall. “To me, the ultimate luxury is a hot bath with salts and essential oils.” The designer logs a lot of reading time here thanks to the natural light streaming from the window and skylight. The tub and fixtures are by Waterworks. Another vintage Moroccan rug covers the floor.

An array of textures tops the Indian inlaid bureau in the master bath. “The little snakeskin box and a tigerwood set of drawers hold my jewelry,” says Kendall. “The photo is by my friend Charles Fine, an L.A. artist. His pictures of nature really inspire me.”

Discover Kendall’s Santa Barbara

We asked the designer a few local hangouts, and she wowed us with an insider guide she creates for friends and family. “There’s an abundance of amazing things to do and to see,” says Kendall. From farm-to-table eating to vintage rugs, old-fashioned ice cream to surf breaks, here are the spots not to be missed.

Plow & Angel at San Ysidro Ranch Offering California cuisine in a stunning location, this is a year-round fave. “It’s supercozy inside by the fire on a cold night, or go on a warm night and sit outside under the loquat trees.”

The Lark “A boisterous, good farm-to-table” joint, the restaurant was named after the Pullman train of the Southern Pacific Railroad. “They have a great roast chicken,” Kendall says.

Upstairs at Pierre Lafond Finds from this home store can be spotted all over Kendall’s home. “They just always have something exotic and appealing there. Definitely check out the Moroccan rugs.”

Lotusland Situated on the estate of Madame Ganna Walska, this unique collection of exotic plants is a must-visit, says Kendall. “The most spectacular gardens and story.”

Kendall Conrad (Okay, we made her include this.) Stop by to browse Kendall’s supple leather bags, summery sandals, sculptural jewelry, and accessories at the Montecito Country Mart.

Related: See Kendall’s Full Insider Travel Guide to Santa Barbara →

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Architectural Walking Tours of Historic Santa Barbara Reserve Your Spot Below

Saturday & sunday tours, 10 a.m..

Weekly year-round tours. Rain cancels tour.

In 1989, a small group walking tour of the downtown area began being led by highly knowledgeable volunteer docents. These Saturday tours focused on architectural styles, significant and historic buildings, aesthetics, past and present building usage, and landscape history. In 2001, due the popularity of the Saturday walking tours, a Sunday tour was added. The Sunday tour continued the history of art and architecture of downtown Santa Barbara as it was reborn after the 1925 earthquake. To this day, tours are available every Saturday and Sunday at 10 AM led by our dedicated and knowledgeable group of volunteer docents. Join us for a weekend tour or ask about how to become a tour docent yourself!

Reservations are recommended as a courtesy to our docents.

Click here to reserve a tour date for the Sabado (Saturday) Walking Tour.

Click here to reserve a tour date for the Domingo (Sunday) Walking Tour.

• Reservations are recommended as a courtesy to our docents however not required.
• $20 suggested donation. Donations can be made at the time of the tour. Cash, check or credit card accepted.
• Children under 12 are free and should be accompanied by an adult.
• Tours are an easy stroll and last approx. 2 hours.
• Please no strollers, very young children, or pets.
• Additional group tours and accessible tours can be arranged with advanced notice. Please send an email to info@ null afsb.org .
• Interested in become a volunteer walking tour docent? Contact the Program Chair, Brian Hofer with any questions!

Interested in becoming a Walking Tour Docent?

The Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara is looking for volunteers to join its team of docents leading AFSB’s popular weekend Architectural Walking Tours. Training will be provided, and the expected participation is approximately one tour per month, with flexible schedules to accommodate all the docents.

Join us in sharing Santa Barbara’s unique architecture and history with locals and visitors alike.

Contact AFSB at 805.965.6307 or email info@ null afsb.org for further information.

Sabado (Saturday) Walking Tour

On the Sabado (Saturday) Tour, see the historic center of downtown Santa Barbara. Celebrate with us the rich cultural heritage left by the first Spanish and Mexican settlers and those giants of Southern California architecture. Sabado tours leave from the City Hall steps at De La Guerra Plaza.

This tour leaves from the City Hall steps at De la Guerra Plaza at 10:00 am, and is an easy stroll lasting approximately two hours. Rain will cancel the tour, but weather permitting it runs every Saturday all year.

Sabado (Saturday) Walking Tour:

• Casa de La Guerra, City Hall, Santa Barbara News-Press, and La Placita buildings, the 19th-century center of Santa Barbara
• El Paseo, the restaurant, courtyard, and commercial spaces
• Meridian Studios
• Lobero Theatre (1924)
• Lobero Office Building by Julia Morgan, architect of Hearst Castle
• Santa Barbara Recreation Center (1912)
• Castillo Building Masonic building (1924)
• Montecito Bank, designed by Myron Hunt and said to be modeled on a basilica in Sicily Hill-Carrillo Adobe (1828)

Domingo (Sunday) Walking Tour

On the Domingo (Sunday) Tour, see the historic art and architecture of downtown Santa Barbara as it was reborn after the 1925 earthquake.

Due to construction in front of the Public Library, the Domingo Tour will meet across the street from the library on Anapamu Street at 10 am, and is an easy stroll lasting approximately two hours.

Rain will cancel the tour, but weather permitting, it runs weekly all year.

  Domingo (Sunday) Walking Tour:

• Pre- and Post-Earthquake Santa Barbara Santa Barbara Central Library (1917)
• La Arcada (1930)
• East Figueroa Buildings San Marcos Building (1913; 1926)
• Santa Barbara Museum of Art (1914-1937)
• Granada Theater (1924)
• Upper Hawley Building (1887)
• 1301 State Street Arlington Theater (1930)
• US Bankruptcy Court (1946-47)
• Santa Barbara Medical Clinic Building (1920)
• Trinity Episcopal Church (1919)
• Plus many more, including Notre Dame School, Yoga Center, and Our Lady of Sorrows Church

Tours for private groups and the physically challenged can be arranged.  Special tours for groups larger than 10 people may be arranged at least two weeks in advance and can be scheduled for any day of the week.

For further information on large, private, or special tours, please email us at info@ null afsb.org or call (805) 965-6307.

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Homes with virtual tours for Sale in Santa Barbara, CA

Home with Virtual Tour for sale in Santa Barbara, CA:

A fixer just for you. Many rooms, decks, and gardens open to the south. You'll find warm all-day sun, fun island-top views, and even a sliver of ocean view from the primary suite. There are fruit trees and flowers that liven up the garden. The vaulted ceilings help move the sunshine around. An oversized garage provides extra space. The home is in a lovely upper San Roque neighborhood and a prized school district. The home was a family haven in the past, but who knows what opportunities the future holds for your finished project? The seller has gathered reports that will help you plan your remodel. The reports are available using the documents tab. Come visit and let your creative side play

Discover your next chapter in Montecito's premier ''Golden Quadrangle, '' where this exceptional ocean & mountain view property offers a gateway to the vibrant Montecito community & its serene natural beauty. Set on an artfully landscaped & gated acre, this 4Bd architecturally distinct single level residence is a haven of style & privacy. Inside, the home unfolds w a design that is both elegant & inviting, w a superbly appointed kitchen, generous entertaining areas & a primary suite offering a spa like experience. Guests will find their own secluded space in a dedicated suite with separate entry, complemented by two additional bedrooms/office/gym. Here'

Stunning 4-bedroom 3 bath 2,577 sq. ft. contemporary style ocean view Mesa home completed in 2018. Beautiful inside and out! Walk to Lazy Acres, Shoreline Park, West Beach and all the shops and restaurants the Mesa has to offer. This south facing home is bathed in light and enjoys a spectacular open floor plan with soaring cathedral ceilings in the living room and great room. State of the art kitchen with Caesarstone counters, a large center island and stainless-steel KitchenAid appliances. Formal living room, large open family room with fireplace and sliding Anderson French doors leads to a covered patio and outdoor fountain and fire-pit. Glorious primary suite with ocean view balcony, lar

Welcome to a beautiful home that is a sanctuary where the elegance of the 1920s meets the pinnacle of 21st-century sophistication. Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara's esteemed Upper East, this Mediterranean masterpiece has been meticulously renovated to offer an unmatched living experience. With the unique ability to serve as a grand single-family home or be divided into two distinct units, this property provides flexible living arrangements without compromising on luxury or space. Boasting Six bedrooms and 4 baths, this warm and inviting residence is a testament to architectural integrity and modern innovation, ensuring ample room for comfort, luxury, and adaptability to your lifestyle

Welcome to 55 Seaview Dr, a spacious and inviting ground-floor condo located in Montecito Shores. This condo features two large bedrooms, two bathrooms, and the convenience of in-unit laundry. Step into the beautifully remodeled kitchen adorned with stainless appliances, setting the stage for culinary delights. The primary bedroom is luxurious with its en-suite bath, dual walk-in closets, and cozy private patio, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee. Additionally, residents of Montecito Shores enjoy access to a private pool, tennis court, and Butterfly Beach. Don't miss the opportunity to make this charming condo your own oasis of comfort and style.

This 5-bed | 51/2-bath modern estate offers unparalleled vistas of the ocean, islands & mountains, making it one of the most coveted properties in Hope Ranch. Positioned on 3.35 gated & private acre, it showcases panoramic views of the Channel Islands, dramatic sunsets over Campus Point & the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains. Designed by Top 100 architect, Barry Berkus, this home features high-end finishes & mostly single-level living, and was recently expanded and extensively renovated throughout. Outside, indulge in resort-like amenities including a pool, spa & lighted sports court w/ arguably the best views in Santa Barbara! Exclusive access to Hope Ranch ameni

Discover Your Montecito Coastal Retreat!Escape to the tranquility of the Hedgerows, where easy living meets coastal elegance. Nestled just moments from stunning beaches and the luxe Miramar Resort, this charming cottage-style home awaits you. Whether you're seeking a serene getaway or 2-nd home, this property offers the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and outdoor allure. An Indoor-Outdoor haven with French doors seamlessly connecting the living rooms to inviting patios, a BBQ area, a cozy fire pit, and a relaxing pergola. Lounge in the sun, entertain guests or simply savor the coastal breeze. The relaxed layout of 3 bedrooms & 2 baths in the main home, plus a separate 1-bd/1-ba stu

PRICE IMPROVEMENT! A unique opportunity to own a quintessential 1920s craftsman home in the Upper East/Mission area of Santa Barbara. Meticulously preserved and updated, this property harmoniously combines modern enhancements with the original charm and details of its historic era. The main residence features three bedrooms & two bathrooms, accompanied by a separate permitted structure housing a bedroom and half bath, perfect for use as an office. This single-level dwelling showcases recent upgrades, including new quartz counters, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, ample storage, canned lighting, and a 2-car garage with an epoxy-finished floor and custom-built cabinetry. The

Architectural marvel originally designed by renowned local architect Kenneth Kruger. Walls of glass welcome the outdoors in. Warm modern finishes & unparalleled attention to detail delight the eyes. Enjoy the salt water pool and abundant sunshine on this elevated mountain view 1 acre lot. 4 BR, 4.5 BTH. Dual living possibilities. Enjoy the best Hope Ranch has to offer in a truly turnkey one of a kind gem.

This charming Queen Ann Victorian style house was originally built in 1911 and moved to its present location in 1925. Additional work was performed in 1930 and was expand in 2005 to improve its features and continue its legacy. The main home offers 3 bedrooms, 11/2 bathrooms, a charming living room & formal dining room. A white picket fence surrounds its beautifully landscaped front yard. The front porch offers a peaceful place to relax and watch passersby from this delightful home. The guest house offers a quaint 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom retreat set in a serene wooded setting. Complete with a 1 car garage & zoned R-4, this versatile property has so much to offer. Its creekside dow

Turnkey Single Level Santa Barbara Riviera Home with a Country Craftsman exterior and contemporary interior. Stylish open kitchen features top-of-the-line appliances. Adjoining living room has hardwood floors, plaster walls, cathedral ceilings and large sliding glass doors that open up to a spacious covered Saltillo tiled patio. This ''Santa Barbara'' lifestyle Home has a beautifully landscaped front and hedges in the backyard with fruit trees, unique plantings and decorative lawns. Primary Bedroom double glass doors open to your own tiled patio with built-in spa. Also includes private office space, attached 2-car garage and lots of driveway parking. Welcome Home to the Riviera!

Ocean, Island and mountain views in Park Highlands! The special features of this property include hardwood floors, open beamed ceilings, numerous skylights, and spectacular views. The ocean views can be enjoyed from the primary bedroom, garden and gazebo. The property is of Mediterranean architecture, and single level construction. The many upgrades include a fully remodeled kitchen with an abundance of storage space and a central island with a prep sink. In addition to a Viking stove, there is an additional built-in oven and two microwave ovens. All of the main rooms open to individual patios. The outdoor patios, decks and gazebo will accommodate guests for any occasion. The oversized two

New co-ownership opportunity: Own one-eighth of this turnkey home, professionally managed by Pacaso. This contemporary showcase offers superb vistas and large rooms that flow to terraces and mature gardens. With views of the ocean below and the mountains above, this 4-bedroom, 5-bathroom home is the ultimate retreat.

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Homes with virtual tours for Sale in Santa Barbara

There are currently 13 homes with virtual tours for sale in Santa Barbara at a median listing price of $2.1M. Some of these homes are "Hot Homes," meaning they're likely to sell quickly. Most homes for sale in Santa Barbara stay on the market for 37 days and receive 1 offers. Popular neighborhoods include Downtown Santa Barbara , Riviera , Waterfront , Hope Ranch , Alta Mesa , Upper East , Goleta South , Mesa , East Mesa , and San Roque . This map is refreshed with the newest listings in Santa Barbara every 15 minutes.

In the past month, 50 homes have been sold in Santa Barbara. In addition to houses in Santa Barbara, there were also 14 condos, 6 townhouses, and 25 multi-family units for sale in Santa Barbara last month. Santa Barbara is a moderately walkable city in Santa Barbara County with a Walk Score of 61. Santa Barbara is home to approximately 88,266 people and 51,398 jobs. Find your dream home in Santa Barbara using the tools above. Use filters to narrow your search by price, square feet, beds, and baths to find homes that fit your criteria. Our top-rated real estate agents in Santa Barbara are local experts and are ready to answer your questions about properties, neighborhoods, schools, and the newest listings for sale in Santa Barbara .  Our Santa Barbara real estate stats and trends will give you more information about home buying and selling trends in Santa Barbara . If you're looking to sell your home in the Santa Barbara area, our listing agents can help you get the best price. Redfin is redefining real estate and the home buying process in Santa Barbara with industry-leading technology, full-service agents, and lower fees that provide a better value for Redfin buyers and sellers.

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THE 10 BEST Santa Barbara Tours & Excursions

Santa barbara tours.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Ports of Call Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Ynez Valley

2. Santa Ynez Valley Wine Tour

3. Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

4. ​All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Barbara

5. Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Locations in Santa Barbara

6. Santa Ynez Valley Biking and Wine Tasting Tour

7. Taco Tour Santa Barbara

8. Santa Barbara Electric Bike Tour

9. Private Helicopter Tour in Santa Barbara

10. Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara with Experienced Guide

11. Santa Ynez Wine Country Shuttle

12. Solvang City Self Guided Audio Tour

13. Private Santa Barbara History and Architecture Walking Tour

14. Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Santa Barbara

15. Sunset Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara with Knowledgeable Guide

16. Santa Barbara Vineyard to Table Taste Tour by E-Bike

17. Downtown SB Walking Food & Drink Tour

18. Santa Barbara Highlights Private 2-Hour Driving Tour

19. Montecito Electric Bike Tour Along Santa Barbara Scenic Coastline

20. Paranormal Pairing: Wine Tasting Walk with Ghost Storytelling

21. Private Guided Tour in Santa Barbara on Electric Bikes

22. Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour

23. Electric Bike Rental in Santa Barbara

24. Guided Kayak Wildlife Tour in the Santa Barbara Harbor

25. Santa Barbara Funk Zone Food and Photo Tour

26. Pacific Coast Highway: Smartphone Audio Tour, LA to Santa Maria

27. City & Sand Electric Bike Tour

28. Recreational Flying Trapeze Classes

29. Coastline Kayak Tour near Santa Barbara with Knowledgeable Guide

30. Solvang Food and Photo Tour

What travelers are saying.

• All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Ynez Valley
• Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Locations in Santa Barbara
• Santa Ynez Valley Wine Tour
• Santa Barbara Electric Bike Tour
• Pacific Coast Highway: Smartphone Audio Tour, LA to Santa Maria
• Sustainable Wine Tours
• Wine Canyon Tours
• I Bike Santa Barbara Wine Tours
• Captain Jack's Santa Barbara Tours
• Taste Santa Barbara Food Tours
• Santa Barbara Surf School
• Santa Barbara Sportfishing Charter
• Santa Barbara Hot Rod Limo
• Condor Express Whale Watching
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• Eat This, Shoot That!
• Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours
• Santa Barbara Adventure Company

Stop Searching for the Ultimate California Ranch House… Because We Found It for You

In the rolling hills near Santa Ynez, Rita Chan—a sustainability-minded interior design firm based in Santa Barbara—created a warm, minimal “ranchette” that represents the best of wine-country living.

Gavin Cater

When you close your eyes and picture the perfect California wine-country retreat , what comes to mind? Do you think of rolling, golden hills dotted with sprawling, ancient oaks and lines of grapevines threading through the landscape like grooves in corduroy? A simple but inspired ranch house that opens up to let the beauty of nature in?

We do, too. And so does Rita Donahoe of Rita Chan Interiors , a Santa Barbara-based designer and founder of Good Ancestor , a design initiative that emphasizes sustainability in home construction and decoration. The 1970s-era Santa Ynez valley 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath ranch house and guest house she transformed for a young Los Angeles couple—on a pocket-sized vineyard—is the stuff dreams are made of.

Donahoe was inspired by the modest, traditional ranch soul of the home, which is understated, classic, and welcoming. Partnering with Elliott & Pohls Construction, Dylan Henderson of SALT architecture , and Rob Maday of Bosky Landscaping , the team kept the color palette light and neutral and opened up the windows and doors to embrace the gorgeous surroundings, including a newly planted wildflower field. They added clean-lined, minimal hardscaping outside and natural finishes like Roman clay and wide-plank tongue-and-groove cladding to the interiors. There are very few mass-manufactured furniture items in the house, an intentional choice that Donahoe makes in all her projects. Most pieces are made-to-order by local California artisans or vintage. 

“I was always obsessed with all-thing green living,” says Donahoe (her maiden name is Chan) who grew up in Menlo Park enjoying the lush forests of Woodside and the majestic nature of the Bay Area. “Then when I got into interior design, I was so focused on building and creating that I wasn’t paying attention to the waste. It takes time and effort to be more sustainable with a project , and isn’t considered convenient or affordable. As I went along, I just couldn’t ignore it.”

Donahoe went to USC, worked for a non-profit, and had a stint in advertising sales—coincidentally, working for Sunset at one point—but she was not fulfilling her dreams.  

“My favorite childhood book was Miss Rumphius, where the main character spreads lupine flower seeds all over the countryside and poses the question ‘What will you do to make the world more beautiful?’ This planted the seed at an early age for me,” she says. “I knew I wanted to create beauty. And I had a huge pile of design articles I saved throughout my work life without a thought about what I was going to do with them.” 

Then she started to connect the dots. Donahoe took the leap and attended the UCLA interior architecture extension course, and then a part-time job working at the Waterleaf shop design studio in Manhattan Beach on the weekends. In 2009, she quit ad sales to work in design full time. In 2013, she launched her own business. Now the mother of three calls Santa Barbara home and has shifted her focus to sustainable design. 

“Good Ancestor is based on the concept of seriously considering a future world, the generations we will never know, and acknowledging that we are all playing a role in shaping that future world,” she says. “To be a ‘good ancestor’ means examining your lifestyle decisions and considering whether or not this future earth and these future generations will look back and be thankful or resentful for the choices you made.” She was inspired by an interview she heard with author Andrew McFarlane, who invoked the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

“He said ‘I find it useful and, in its way, calming to invoke what King called ‘the long arc of the moral universe.’ It says, ‘Look at the gift of being, now. Look at the astonishing responsibility of legacy-leaving. And look at what you’ve inherited in the wonder of this world. And what will our time leave?’ I found that to be so powerful,” she says.

How does furnishing a home play into this idea, you may ask?  Donahoe explains.

“Our homes really do tell a story of who we are and what we care about, which is why old artifacts dug up from ancient civilizations are so fascinating,” she says. “They tell us how the people were living and what they focused on. I think about that when making a purchase. In an ideal world this purchase will go back into the earth naturally and decompose, but if it does live on, my hope is that items future generations will find will say, ‘They were creative, thoughtful people who cared about keeping the earth healthy.’”

Her priorities are simple: First, try to salvage or use as much as you can that you already own, which could mean painting or reupholstering. Then, source as much vintage as possible. If you purchase new, make sure it’s through a company that makes small batches of products or custom to order, which keeps waste and energy use down. Consider whether a piece will decompose naturally or if it will take up space in a landfill when it’s no longer useful. With materials such as paint and tile we also try to stick to vendors that we know are making efforts to be sustainable, such as Portola Paints and Fireclay Tile. Make thoughtful choices with construction to avoid wasting materials.

Donahoe’s sustainable fingerprints are all over this Santa Ynez property, which consists of a handful of renovated outbuildings that create a retreat large enough to host visiting family and friends. Old barns and workshops were repurposed into an art studio and a guest house. 

“Initially, the clients gravitated toward more modern and a little bit mid-century style, but we wanted to be sure to honor the vibe of the area and take our cues from natural elements and the lifestyle they envisioned for their vacation time at the ranch,” she says. 

Vintage pieces with “soul” like rugs and light fixtures blend with new items for a rustic, modern mix that feels in harmony with nature. 

“I wanted the color palette to be calming to reflect the colors found in the surroundings, so we used mostly neutral tones with one big pop of green on the living room sofa, which reminds me of the deep green of the massive oak tree on their property,” Donahoe says.

Muted finishes, like unglazed tile and stone that will patina with time, and colors drawn from the surroundings play into the nature.

A 100-year-old vintage bench is the first item of furniture you see when you enter the house. “We joke that 10 people could sit down and take off their shoes at the same time. The interior walls and trim are painted in Dunn Edwards Swiss Coffee. The piano is vintage with a custom bench cushion in Peter Dunham Fabric.

Relaxed bedding from Parachute Home sets the tone for the spare guest bedroom, with a bench by Made Goods and Nickey Kehoe nightstands.

Under a chandelier by Apparatus, the dining nook table is by Dos Gallos. The custom benches are outfitted in practical outdoor fabric by Thibaut (which is Greenguard certified). The pillows are vintage.

The Nickey Kehoe table is surrounded by Four Hands dining chairs (the only mass pieces in the house). The cushions are made with Peter Dunham fabric and the rug is vintage.

The kitchen barstools are by Lee Industries. The tile is Natural Zellige by Clé Tile, and the plumbing fixtures were made by Devol Kitchens.

“Another favorite piece is the vintage chest of drawers in the art studio that we salvaged from the original owner’s workshop. I love knowing that in the ’70s, he was using those drawers for his tools to build and create and that today my clients are using them for the same purpose,” Donahoe says.

A Brendan Ravenhill chandelier and sconces, a vintage rug, a concrete desk by Zachary A, a Ceramicah lamp, and vintage accessories outfit the sleek home office.

Windows looking out onto the vineyard steal the show in the guest room. The walls and ceilings are a custom white plaster.

The guest bathroom vanity is painted in Pigeon by Farrow & Ball.

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The Pearl Chase Society Santa Barbara, California

Dedicated to preserving Santa Barbara’s historic architecture, landscapes and cultural heritage.

Pearl Chase

1888 – 1979 Pearl Chase was devoted to making Santa Barbara beautiful. The Pearl Chase Society continues her legacy as an all volunteer, not-for-profit conservancy dedicated to preserving Santa Barbara’s Historic architecture, landscapes and cultural heritage.

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​​ Tours of Santa Barbara​​​​​​​​​​​

The most memorable sightseeing tour in Santa Barbara you'll ever have​

Wine and Tours of

SantaBarbara 

  We are the ​  first and only Tour Company to be

 exclusively offering   day long tours entirely devoted to Santa Barbara plus exclusive walking tours and Wine  tours of the beautiful,  Santa Ynez Valley  featuring over 53 Wineries . 

        About The  Owner 

          The owner, a post surfer himself has lived along the coast of  California most  of his life while first living  in, Venice then Santa Monica where he moved to for a couple of years after High School . At twenty years of age he moved to, Isla Vista, a college community in, Goleta the first town North of, Santa Barbara and has spent most all of his life in Santa Barbara County .  

         After dropping out of college he began working in the travel industry starting with driving a Taxi then himself owning two Santa Barbara Taxi Companies, Brisa Marina Taxi and Hoaloha Taxi . After three years of driving to most every place imaginable within the City and County along came, Uber which wiped out his business . Afterwards he began acting  and was on the cast in three movies, ten television shows, music videos and commercials which he played a Detective, Brain Surgeon,  Carpenter, a lumber Jack and in other roles he became nearly unrecognizable . 

         During a bad auto accident while driving in, Los Angeles he became determined he would never drive back to L.A. so he started  back up again in, Santa Barbara driving  for a transportation Company with an emphasis on Wine Tours . Later he opened up his own Wine and  City Tour Company  doing Wine and Exclusive Tours of, Santa Barbara, a Town and County he loves and knows so well .

Santa Barbara

        Santa Barbara is best known for its broad, sandy beaches, Wine tasting, Spanish architecture, celebrities, restaurants, and so many places to see and visit  . So whether you're looking to see miles of vineyards, catch the perfect wave or that breathtaking sunset, there's plenty of other sights to enjoy here including seeing the near countless attractions for which Santa Barbara has become known for .   Often branded as the American Riviera, it's  home to award winning Wineries.  unique landscapes with a great climate for living, visiting, playing, and working. The County is well known for its strong sense of community, prime agricultural land and attractive cultural and tourism opportunities. 

     Sherman Stow planted 600 acres of lemon tress on his ranch in the Goleta Valley in the 1890 'S .  Stow, generously shared seedlings with owners of neighboring ranches and soon colorful green lemon orchards  with bright yellow fruit were decorated in from the coast and although the lemon orchards have diminished due to increasing demands for housing  an estimated  18,000  lemon  trees still remain . Today  in a house he built in 1872 and lived  in is located next to, Lake Los Carneros  . A lemon  festival dedicated solely to lemons is held in, Goleta on September 24 and 25th and nearby, Carpinteria with miles of advocado groves hosts an avocado  festival on October first of each year.  

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805 350 8955

Tours of Santa Barbara

 Santa Barbara  is unique in that there is  such a divers​e range  of styles, award winning Wineries, architecture, plants, people, weather , attractions and 

 experiences all in one   region. The  options are almost  endless . Both novices and aficionados will experience the

  hospitality for which Santa   Barbara has been known for . Take one of  our tours then simply meander, experience, explore, enjoy and relax  .

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321 Motor Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Taco Tour Santa Barbara

• Receive $230 in gift coupons.
• 5 award winning tacos
• Margaritas | Beer | Wine
• Learn fun facts about Santa Barbara
• Adults ($115) | Kids ($99)

137 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Taco & Wine Tour Santa Barbara

• Receive $230 in gift coupons
• 2 WINE TASTINGS in the Iconic Funk Zone
• Adults Only ($245)

316 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Taco Tour Santa Monica

• 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM PST
• 1.5 walking tour miles
• 2 alcoholic beverages  choice of Margarita, wine
• Gift cards to local taquerias
• Adults ($145) | Kids ($105)

Your Ultimate Destination for a Memorable Taco Tour Experience!

Wow, Taco Tour Santa Barbara, Taco & Wine Tour Santa Barbara and our newest tour Taco Tour Santa Monica is an incredible experience! From exploring scenic beauty to savoring top-rated tacos, it's a journey not to be missed. The addition of wine tasting in the iconic Funk Zone adds another layer of delight to the tour in Santa Barbara. Our guides are the best trained in the tour industry. They are ranked #1 in “Best of” They are knowledgeable, funny and considerate. On our tours you will appreciate the attention to detail in offering curated taco selections at each stop, ensuring a diverse and memorable culinary experience for every guest. And the consideration for vegetarian options and dog-friendly ambiance truly makes our tours inclusive and welcoming to all. Moreover, the commitment to supporting local businesses by providing gift cards to guests is commendable, further enhancing the connection to the community and enriching the overall experience. For anyone looking to indulge in the vibrant flavors and wines of Santa Barbara and Santa Monica while immersing themselves in its cultural and culinary delights, Taco Tour Santa Barbara and Taco Tour Santa Monica are the perfect choices.

Each Guest will receive over $230 in gift cards to use at local businesses on State Street (Santa Barbara Tours) We are committed to supporting our local shop keepers, bars and restaurants.

Book your tour now at TacotourSantaBarbara.com and treat yourself to an immersive exploration of Santa Barbara's & Santa Monica's, best tacos, vegetarian and gluten-free options, dog-friendly ambiance, and a delightful selection of wine and beer. Your gastronomic adventure awaits – join us for an unforgettable experience that combines walking, tacos, and the best of Santa Barbara's & Santa Monica's culinary scene!

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A Family-Friendly Quick Trip to Temecula Valley

Outdoor Activities and Culinary Indulgences Make This SoCal Spot a Good Pick for the Whole Family — Pups Included

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A couple of klicks east of Interstate 15 between inland Los Angeles and San Diego, the busy traffic and modern strip malls fall away to rolling vineyards and orchards and long views to the surrounding mountains. This is Temecula Valley, roughly 30 square miles of the southernmost edge of the Inland Empire and Southern California’s preeminent wine country.

While the region gets plenty of play for its whites and reds, my family and I skipped the tasting rooms and winery tours in favor of a recent getaway full of outdoor activities and a few culinary indulgences — all of it with our two dogs in tow.

Arriving through the wind and scattered showers of an otherwise quiet Sunday afternoon, we unpacked at Carter Estate Winery and Resort ( carterestatewinery.com ), which features a gated cul-de-sac of bungalows and suites, about half of which are sunset-facing from private patios. Other highlights include the saltwater pool, hot tub, and poolside cabana café and grill featuring a house michelada and an assortment of sangrias, plus a fitness center, spa, tasting room, and a pet-friendly policy and miles of dog-walkable acreage among the surrounding vineyards.

The resort offers shuttle service to its nearby sister property, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa ( southcoastwinery.com ), where we slid into a corner booth at the Vineyard Rose. The dining space resembled a refined, outsize timber lodge with privacy between tables and a waitstaff that circulated attentively but without hovering.

The braised lamb shank nearly melted off the bone above a thick smear of creamy polenta, while the pork chop became the table favorite with its tender bite and peppery crunch. Kids will dig the margherita pizza, perhaps topped with added prosciutto. And of course, for the grownups, there’s plenty of wine from near and far.

When we returned to the Vineyard Rose for breakfast, the coffee tasted perfectly brewed, and I savored several top-offs with my focaccia Cali Benedict, so named for its avocado hollandaise. But the best bet, I’d wager, is their chilaquiles, which achieved gourmet elevation with its authenticity intact.

Another memorable meal can be had at The Goat & Vine stone-hearth kitchen ( thegoatandvine.com ), located on the southern side of Old Town Temecula, where the I-15 passes through the city proper. Our Caesar starter was fairly standard fare, soon eclipsed by the fennel-sausage and Kobe meatballs topped with house marinara, three cheeses, and served with homemade crusted garlic sourdough. If pretzel rolls with honey mustard and a beer-cheese dipping sauce sounds unavoidable, you’re right. And to top it off, we heeded the constant advice we’d received from everybody who’d been there before: “Get the pizza.”

The Goats Garden pizza — roasted crimini mushrooms, goat cheese, marinated artichoke hearts, spinach, white ricotta cream sauce, chiffonade basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and lemon zest — lived up to the kitchen’s exalted reputation. We heard the sandwiches are exceptional, as well.

With that small storm having blown through the evening prior, our first morning was calm and clear blue to all horizons — perfect conditions for a Grape Escape Hot Air Balloon Adventure ( hotairtours.com/grape-escape ). Aloft on invisible breezes, we soared to an altitude of 2,500 feet to take in the surrounding mountains, from the coastal range above Camp Pendleton to the massive and snow-capped San Gorgonio and towering San Jacinto peaks. As we swooped low just above an orange grove, our pilot recommended spring flights timed with the popping blossoms that fill the skies with citrus scents.

Later that morning, we made the 20-minute drive eastward to Temecula Olive Oil Company’s Olive View Ranch ( temeculaoliveoil.com ), located in Aguanga, where owner Thom Curry and crew grow and mill upward of 12,000 gallons annually. If you’ve never tasted really good extra-virgin olive oil with a pro, give it a go. With Curry’s guidance, we sampled a range of scents and flavors, from the herbal grassy notes preferred for dressings and baguette dipping to the late-harvest blood-orange blend you’d drizzle on a salmon filet with a few cranks of cracked pepper. Curry also works with local growers to ferment grapes into a variety of small-batch balsamic vinegars, also available for tasting, both at the ranch and the company storefront in Old Town.

After a quick tour of metal sculptor Ricardo Breceda’s outdoor gallery ( ricardoabreceda.com ), we headed to California Ranch Company ( californiaranchcompany.com ) for our last outing of the trip, an afternoon horseback ride. With docent-level insight from our guide, Chloe Bell, we passed a small herd of Texas longhorn and the breeding pens and pastures of Thoroughbred mares in foal before skirting rows of grapevines toward an easy hill climb.

Company owner Bob Brown was along for the ride as well, riding Guinness, a big American Quarter Horse. We reached a flat summit to take in one of those long and often wistful views common to any worthy outdoor getaway.

Brown relaxed in the saddle and said quietly to no one in particular, “Sometimes you just have to get out of town and get on the back of a horse.”

For more information, check out visittemeculavalley.com .

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