Santa Barbara Beach

Get Down in Santa Barbara's Funk Zone

25/01/2018

Are you an LA local who is looking for a staycation or weekend getaway, but you just can’t seem to find the time to get too far out of town? Have you been missing quality time with your partner, or looking for the perfect local place for a shopping getaway with a few good friends? Why not consider a quick and easy staycation in one of the many beautiful Santa Barbara hotels in The Funk Zone. This revitalized industrial area along the waterfront in downtown Santa Barbara is one of the best spots for dining, shopping, arts, yoga, and of course, wine. If you’re curious about what to do in the Santa Barbara area, read on for some of the best places to eat, shop, explore and relax.

Dining

One of the best restaurants in Santa Barbara is the Lucky Penny, an inexpensive and casual cafe that’s good for wine or dining at almost any time of day. Their restaurant boasts some of the healthiest dishes in the area, and their wood-fired pizzas are second-to-none. Stop in for lunch or dinner, and you won’t be disappointed.Food The Lark is another on the list of favorite Santa Barbara restaurants that features sustainable dishes and a nice variety of foods. This is a great place to go if you’re with a group, but be sure to make a reservation as it can get quite busy. And if you’re in the mood for Mexican, don’t skip out on Los Agaves, home of the freshest and most authentic dishes in the area.

Stearns Wharf

Waterfront view of Stearn's Wharf, in Santa Barbara, California.
Stearns Wharf | Santa Barbara, CA

Stearns Wharf is a must-see when you’re staying in The Funk Zone. Take a stroll by the ocean at sunset and enjoy the view of the city while savoring some of the freshest seafood in California. Be sure to stop by the sweet specialty shops during the day to pick up a unique souvenir for your special someone, sister or bestie.

Wine Tours

Wine Pouring

Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone has some great nightlife. If you love art and wine (who doesn’t?) you’ll definitely want to check out the downtown art and wine tour, which features a visit to a local winery and restaurant. Or just stay on foot and head out on the Urban Wine Trail, a local walking tour of the area’s finest wine tasting rooms.

Santa Barbara Shopping

A quick walk along State Street will introduce you to The Funk Zone’s chic and unique furniture, clothing, artisan, and lifestyle stores. You’ll also find plenty of thrift and consignment stores full of funky, inexpensive goods. You don’t have to look far to find a treasure for yourself or a fabulous gift for a friend or relative. You really can’t go wrong with a weekend getaway to Santa Barbara’s most up-and-coming spots. Consider staying right next to The Funk Zone at the beautiful West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel in Santa Barbara! The West Beach Inn is not only at the heart of the action, it also offers free amenities like nightly wine and cheese, free breakfast, free parking and a pool and hot tub. Larger rooms are available for larger parties. So what are you waiting for? Leave your car at home and enjoy a weekend by the water with some of the best arts, culture, and shopping that California has to offer. Grab your hubby or best girlfriends and spoil yourself!