Let There Be Light: Sepia Splendor in Santa Barbara

Humans crave light. It fuels our bodies, lifts our moods, and makes even the darkest days feel a little brighter. When winter in the Pacific Northwest drags on, the trick is to learn from our feathered friends and fly south. In this three-part series, we’ll explore three escapes from the gray: Waikiki, Santa Barbara, and Las Vegas — each offering its own unique glow and approximately 300 days of sunshine per year.

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, this coastal city is known for its soft, Mediterranean-esque painter’s light. The interplay between the sun and sea at dusk creates golden sunsets that bathe the town in warm, soothing hues. The natural light enhances the laid-back, peaceful ambience, promoting slower rhythms and contemplation.

The Kimpton Canary Hotel exudes Mediterranean charm with Spanish tile, wrought iron, and coastal-inspired décor fresh from its 2023 renovation. The rooftop pool offers sweeping views of the mountains and ocean; the perfect spot to soak up some Vitamin D. The central location makes it easy to explore Santa Barbara’s Arts District, Funk Zone, and Saturday farmers market just outside — the same market beloved by former resident Julia Child.

For another boutique vibe, Palihouse beckons. The tiny hideaway boasts just 24 rooms, with a diminutive pool, cocktail lounge frequented by locals, and café to match. The plush hotel is downtown-adjacent in the historic Presidio neighborhood, inside the former Santa Barbara School of the Arts.

American-inspired art. Sullivan Goss Art Gallery in Santa Barbara features and inventory of more than 3,000 painting, watercolors, drawings, prints and sculptures by American artists from the 19th to the 21st century, including Susan McDonnell’s Honey Bees & Desert Mallow.

Photo courtesy Of Sullivan Goss - An American Gallery

The Arts District brims with creativity, so immerse yourself in local art and design. Fashionistas will love Kaarem, a local Vietnamese “slow fashion” designer who creates new designs from fabric remnants, and celeb fave Catherine Gee for elegant silkware. Art lovers will enjoy The Santa Barbara Museum of Art, a superior small museum. The latest exhibit, “Accretion,” celebrates the work of women artists living in the States whose roots stem from Latin America.

For history buffs, the Santa Barbara Courthouse, a National Historic Landmark, celebrates Santa Barbara’s rich Native, Mexican, and Spanish cultures. The Mural Room is known as one of the most stunning indoor wedding venues on the coast.

Santa Barbara’s cuisine scene blends farm-to-table freshness with global influences, making it an intriguing exploratorium for foodies. The Daisy is delightful for dinner, with Middle Eastern-influenced fare from a Californian and Scottish couple, served in a bright, airy space that combines order-at-the-counter casual with date night deliciousness. Asian street bites at Secret Bao are a treat, from spicy hamachi wonton tacos and “KFC” fried chicken bao, to udon carbonara and Singapore-style chili crab noodles. And it wouldn’t be California without great vegetarian food, so sample farmer-to-fork food at Satellite SB, where visitors enjoy creative plant-based dishes such as yuzu snap pea salad to pair with local organic wines.

To experience the best of Santa Barbara’s renowned Mexican food culture, hit up Corazon Comedor, from acclaimed Guadalajara-born Chef Ramon Velazquez. For a nightcap, experience the inviting, loosely Hemingway and travel-inspired atmosphere of The Good Lion, a friendly cocktail lounge with a lengthy menu of finely crafted drinks.