It's always exciting to explore the culinary offerings of a new place, and Santa Barbara has much to offer! The local dining scene is packed with flavor, variety, and unbeatable settings. From fresh-caught seafood and coastal California cuisine to casual pet-friendly restaurants and stylish wine bars, there’s something here for everyone, no matter what you're craving. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, a family-friendly meal, or just looking for a great cup of coffee, our carefully curated guide will point you in the right direction.

Waterfront Dining in Santa Barbara

There’s nothing like dining by the water in Santa Barbara. Oceanfront restaurants here blend great food with unbeatable views, whether you’re grabbing lunch in the sunshine or enjoying dinner as the sun sets over the Pacific. Just look at that coast—who wouldn't want to stare out at such breathtaking views while having a bite to eat?

There are many waterfront restaurants in Santa Barbara to choose from, but these are our top picks:

Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Santa Barbara

There’s no need to leave your pup behind when dining out in Santa Barbara. Many restaurants welcome four-legged guests with open arms, outdoor seating, and even water bowls and treats. From laid-back cafés to casual coastal eateries, these spots make it easy to enjoy great food and good company—both human and canine. It’s all part of the laid-back, pet-loving vibe that makes Santa Barbara so special.

Check out our pet-friendly Santa Barbara vacation rentals, and then grab a bite at one of these inclusive spots:

Best Brunch in Santa Barbara

Late mornings in Santa Barbara are made for good food and great company. From ocean-view cafés to trendy spots downtown, brunch here is all about relaxing and enjoying locally inspired flavors. You’ll find everything from crab cake Benedict to fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes, plus plenty of fresh juice and craft coffee. Whether you're fueling up for the day or kicking back with a mimosa, these brunch favorites won’t disappoint!

Santa Barbara Coffee Shops

When you're on vacation, finding good coffee is absolutely imperative. After all, you have to start your day out right! Santa Barbara’s coffee shops are more than just a place to grab your morning caffeine fix—they’re part of the local lifestyle. From smooth cold brews to expertly pulled espresso, you’ll find quality and creativity in every cup. Whether you’re fueling up before a beach day or settling in with a good book, these are the best places to get your coffee fix.

Top Wineries in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara’s wine scene is world-renowned, and it’s easy to see why. With stunning coastal views, sun-soaked vineyards, and award-winning varietals, the area is a dream for wine lovers. Whether you're heading into the hills for a scenic tasting or stopping by an urban wine bar downtown, you'll find plenty of places to sip and swirl. This is our list of the top wineries and tasting rooms in Santa Barbara!

Book Your Santa Barbara Vacation with Wanderlust Vacation Rentals!

Yum! Our mouths are watering just thinking about all these delicious dining options in Santa Barbara. There are so many incredible places to choose from! Now that you know where to eat during your trip, the next step is deciding where you'll stay!

When searching for the best vacation rentals in Santa Barbara, look no further than Wanderlust. Combining the best in luxury rental options with the finest customer service around, our team is ready to help you have your best vacation yet! Whether you're looking to stay in one of our premier properties in the Paraiso Collection or prefer to search by amenity for a rental with a pool or a pet-friendly property, we are confident you'll find the best fit for you amidst our extensive selection of Santa Barbara properties.

Are you ready to book your stay with us? We promise to make your time here memorable. Browse our available Santa Barbara vacation rentals now and book your stay directly with Wanderlust Vacation Rentals!

Santa Barbara Dining Guide