Tansy

Haven't been to either spot. Might be able to swing a long weekend at one of these spots after a business trip to LA in May. Looking for a romantic, casual weekend with my husband. R&R, good food, walking around. Does one of the two really stand out? Both sound so great.

alg

I really liked Laguna. We stayed at Las Brisas...right in the beach and it was a very short walk into the "main downtown" area.

Tansy

Sorry to top this but I'm hoping for a few more responses . . . thanks!

I should reiterate that we would not be able to do both spots, only one -- it's just for two nights.

auntiemaria

Both towns have that lovely beachfront setting, but Santa Barbara is filled with so much early-California history and architecture, plus the zoo, the wharf, the galleries, the dining...ohmy!

I'd urge you to visit Santa Barbara.

Alisa

I vote for Santa Barbara, especially if you have never been. Great restaurants, cute hotels, lots of walking.

Very romantic!