1st time in Santa Barbara
 

We would like to spend 3-4 days there? Is that adequate? Are there nearby towns we should also see? Any good theater in Santa Barbara? What are the main sites? Thanks

Yes, I think it's adequate as it isn't that big a city. I think the main point of interest is the old mission, then they have several museums (art, maritime, history) that are worthwhile. And of course people like the walk around the wharf and coast area.

It is actually known for theater, they have a historic theater district.
http://santabarbaraca.com/plan-your-...rforming-arts/

SOme people like to visit Solvang or Ojai which are nearby. Solvang is some town with Danish history or something, which has never interested me to go there but might you.
http://www.solvangusa.com/

If you also like music, check the calendar for the Santa Barbara Bowl. It's a terrific venue.

Ojai is a nice town, much smaller than Solvang. It's about the same distance from SB, but the back-way drive (route 150) is more scenic with peeks at Lake Casitas. If you'd rather go north than south, I'd head to tiny Los Olivos for lunch and exploring before Solvang. Then, if you have time, stop in Solvang on the way back to SB.

There's a great farmers market in Santa Maria on Fridays.

If you're going in the spring, the wildflowers will be beautiful.

Don't miss the new MOXI Museum,Bouchon is a favorite for dinner, Reynaud's for breakfast, the Four Seasons for cocktails or the most fabulous Sunday brunch! The Mission is beautiful and the adobe and historical buildings downtown and very interesting and picturesque if you're interested in Old California.Santa Barbara is very laid back and casual, the harbor area has a nice breakwater to walk along and its a nice place for riding bikes, jogging or walking. A tour out to the Channel Islands or a whale watching cruise might be fun, depending on time of year that you are i. Do you already have your lodging, Santa Barbara books up very quickly and is quite pricey.

The Mission is beautiful, one of the prettier ones IMO. There is also a nice art show along the waterfront on Sundays. We normally spent more time wine tasting in the Santa Ynez Valley just north of Santa Barbara, but there is tasting in town I believe.

We have been thinking of taking a tour of Santa Ynez valley---worth it?

Be sure to put the county courthouse on your list. It's beautiful, interesting, and was built in the Moorish style. Fine clock tower with view and a stunning library.

What are the nicest hotels? Hopefully near water

Yes, the Courthouse is a gem, the Mural Room is one of my favorites!

For hotel, what budget do you have in mind and when are you coming?

The nicest hotel is the Four Seasons.

Yes, a tour of the Santa Ynez Valley is definitely worth it; pretty country and excellent wineries.

Bookmay