How to Have a Romantic Beach Retreat in Santa Barbara

couple riding bikes on beach during sunset

How to Have a Romantic Beach Retreat in Santa Barbara

Is it time to treat your sweetheart to a romantic getaway, but not sure where to go or what to do? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Plan a romantic beach retreat to Santa Barbara that includes a trip to a secluded beach, day of wine tasting a romantic stay at the boutique Inn at East Beach and more.

 

Find a Secluded Beach

Correct us if we’re wrong, but beaches are undoubtedly romantic. Whether you soak up the sun during the day or wait until evening to catch a brilliant sunset, at the beach is a great way to spend your retreat. For a secluded beach surrounded by a natural setting, visit Arroyo Burro Beach. Known as Hendry’s Beach to the locals, this is a great place for walk along the beach, whale watching and picnics. For the best beach sunset, head to Butterfly Beach. Unlike most Santa Barbara beaches, this one faces west– meaning you have a beautiful view of the California sunset.

 

Or, a Secluded Castle

If romantic walks along the beach are a little too cliché for you, take a hike to a secluded castle instead. Knapp’s Castle is perched high above the Santa Barbara hills, looking out towards the expansive horizon. The castle was built in 1916, but destroyed by fire in 1940, leaving crumbling (but beautiful) stone ruins behind. This spot is super scenic and ideal for romantic photos. Plan for a 20 to 30-minute drive from downtown Santa Barbara, then a 10 minute (less than a mile roundtrip) hike to the ruins.

 

Get Tickets to the Beachside Wine Festival

For a classy beachside wine tasting, attend this year’s Beachside Wine Festival on July 20, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. This California Wine Festival signature event attracts thousands of wine lovers each year. Expect hundreds of fine wines, regional craft brews and a variety of foods to sample. Taste artisanal cheeses, breads and chocolates while enjoying live music and views of the ocean. Tickets to the Beachside Wine Festival are $90 for early entrance or $70 for regular admission. They’re expected to sell out, so don’t want too long to reserve yours!

 

Explore the City on Bikes

Stay at Inn at East Beach and enjoy a full day of bike riding and exploring (more details about this below). Not sure where you should go? Take the Cabrillo Bike Path! It’s a 4.5-mile paved path that stretches alongside Sterns Wharf, East Beach, then back to the Santa Barbara Harbor. Stop at the many shops and restaurants along the way, or park at the beach and enjoy the ocean for a bit.

 

Choose the Couples Beach Package 

What better way to spend a romantic Santa Barbara retreat than at a hotel with a Couple’s Beach Retreat Package? Choose this package at the beautiful Inn at East Beach and receive:

  • All day bike rentals for 2
  • Box of chocolate truffles from Chocolate Maya
  • Complimentary bottle of Pinot Noir
  • 2pm late check out

 

We think you’ll agree that coastal Santa Barbara is the perfect place for a romantic retreat. Before you start packing, make sure to take advantage of the Couples Beach Package at Inn at East Beach!

 

 

WHERE TO STAY

Inn at East Beach
Whatever makes your ideal California weekend getaway, the Inn at East Beach Hotel in Santa Barbara is here to help you stay well- and well within your budget! 1029 Orilla Del Mar, Santa Barbara, CA 93103. 805.965.0546
www.innateastbeach.com