Anyone know Santa Barbara area of california?

[HillyMillylunchmunch]

I'm going on a short work trip, landing in LA, then staying near santa barbara for a few nights. I've got maybe 3 free days.

What shall I do? I'm with a friend so thought we could do a wine tasting thing one day, and ideally I'd like to go shopping another day but somewhere good as I never have childfree shopping time normally.

Any ideas where to shop? We'll have a car, so could go to LA... If so where? If not where else should we go?

Any other day trip ideas? We'll be jetlagged so shorter days probably preferred over long, but open to ideas

The wine tasting would be fun. You could drive to Malibu and go to the Getty Villa. You could shop in Santa Barbara. Going to LA would be hard work! Or shop in Santa Monica as it’s easier to get to.

Drive north on Highway 1. Visit some beaches. Go to the mission and look around Santa Barbara. Do a food tour in Santa Barbara. There is enough to do for a few days.

Solving is touristy so avoid.

I forgot to mention Hearst Castle. It’s around 2.5 hours drive from SB but it’s great for a day out. It’s north on Highway 1.

Perfect, this all looks great and certainly gives me tips where to start some more research. Huge thanks

I was going to suggest Solvang. Touristy yes but will depend on time of year you're visiting. It's right in the heart of wine country for lots of tasting and a nice down town with fantastic bakeries that sell the best Danish pastries. The Wine Merchant Cafe in Los Olivos is worth the trip. www.winemerchantcafe.com/cafe/

Yes, Solvang! We thought the whole place was a “fantasy” village. Just Danish pastries and tat! Our host at our b&b was surprised we went there!

Don’t drive yourself for wine tasting. The Police are around at the weekend and some driving is very poor! I hate to think what it would be like without a police presence!!