Staff Picks Series: William’s Santa Barbara Recommendations
Looking for some Santa Barbara recommendations? At Hotel Santa Barbara it’s our job to know the insider secrets to exploring Santa Barbara. Our staff members get to live, work, and play in the American Riviera all year long. They pride themselves on sharing the best things to do in Santa Barbara with you, our guests. So we went straight to them for their recommendations on the best places to dine, explore, sip, savor and shop in Santa Barbara to help you make the most of your vacation.
Every couple of weeks we will feature a different staff member and their favorite SB spots.
William, Front Desk Manager
Years at Hotel Santa Barbara: 7
What is your favorite restaurant within walking distance to the hotel? Why?
Zaytoon is my favorite restaurant. Lebanese food with a great atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating with fire pits. Delicious food and all around good vibes.
What do you like to do in Santa Barbara on your days off?
My favorite thing to do on my days off is hiking the Santa Barbara trails. My favorite hike is Inspiration Point. A 3.5 mile day hike with stunning views of Santa Barbara and the ocean from the top.
List your top 3 favorite things about Santa Barbara:
- The location. Right on the ocean and by the mountains.
- The weather. Sunny yearlong with the occasional rain.
- The festivals. Santa Barbara has many festivals and festivities, such as the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Fiesta and the Summer Solstice parade and celebration.
Favorite brewery?
Figueroa Mountain Brewing is my favorite brewery in the Santa Barbara Funk Zone. A local brewery with great ambiance and better beer, and it’s within walking distance from the hotel.
What do you recommend for a fun sightseeing tour of Santa Barbara?
The Landshark is a unique way to see Santa Barbara because you get a tour of Santa Barbara from both the land and water! The amphibious vehicle takes you on a narrated tour for about 90 minutes.
How would you describe Santa Barbara in one word?
Breathtaking.
Check back every couple of weeks as we feature a different staff member and their favorite SB spots. Have questions about our Santa Barbara recommendations? Call 1-800-549-9869.
