Morning Serenity: Surf and Yoga

As the sun rises over the Pacific, casting a golden hue across the Santa Barbara coastline, there’s no better way to start your day than with a surf lesson that promises more than just riding waves. Imagine being welcomed into the fold by a seasoned surfer, who treats you like family, guiding you through the art of surfing with the warmth and enthusiasm of a beloved uncle. This is the essence of the Santa Barbara Surf Lessons experience, available from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM on both December 14th and 15th.

The morning air is crisp, with a gentle breeze that carries the scent of the ocean, invigorating your senses as you don a wetsuit and select your board. The journey begins with a wave hunt along the breathtaking central coast, where the surf buggy takes you to the perfect spot. Here, under the guidance of your instructor, you learn the nuances of paddling, the thrill of the pop-up, and the etiquette of the surf. Each lesson is personalized, ensuring that even first-timers feel at ease and exhilarated.

“Surfing with Mika in Santa Barbara was an incredible experience! Mika is not only very friendly but also an excellent teacher. As a first-time surfer, I felt completely at ease with his guidance and patience. The location was beautiful, and the whole experience was both fun and educational. Highly recommend this surfing lesson to anyone visiting Santa Barbara!” - Reviewed on 2024-06-14

Afternoon Indulgence: E-Bike Through Vineyards

As the morning gives way to the afternoon, the allure of Santa Ynez Valley beckons with its promise of a leisurely e-bike tour through some of the most picturesque vineyards in Santa Barbara. The Santa Ynez Valley E-Bike Tour is a journey that marries the thrill of cycling with the indulgence of wine tasting, available from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on December 14th.

The tour begins with a comfortable shuttle ride from Santa Barbara, traversing the scenic San Marcos Pass. As you pedal through the valley, the landscape unfolds like a painting, with rows of vines stretching towards the horizon, interspersed with charming towns and lavender farms. Each stop offers a new delight, from the fragrant allure of Clairmont Farms to the quaint charm of Solvang, where a Danish pastry is a must-try.

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the wine and olive oil tastings, where the flavors of the region come alive. At Rideau Vineyard, the experience is elevated with a gourmet picnic lunch amidst the vines, a feast for the senses that captures the essence of Santa Barbara’s culinary heritage.

“A unique and fabulous tour! This bike tour was absolutely fabulous from start to finish! The owner William was our guide and was so knowledgeable about everything we saw on the tour. The tour itself was everything we could have wanted in terms of having a variety of stops/activities, beautiful scenery, a fabulous lunch, and 2 beautiful wineries. Do not hesitate to book this tour if you have a day to spend in or near Santa Barbara.” - Reviewed on 2024-09-30

Evening Relaxation: Wine and Wellness

As the day winds down, the cool evening air invites you to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. Santa Barbara, with its rich tapestry of vineyards and wellness retreats, offers the perfect setting for an evening of relaxation and indulgence.

Consider visiting one of the local wineries for a tasting session that showcases the region’s finest offerings. The ambiance is intimate, with candlelit tables and the soft murmur of conversation, creating a serene atmosphere that complements the exquisite flavors of the wines. Pair your tasting with a selection of local cheeses and charcuterie, and let the day’s experiences linger on your palate.

For those seeking a deeper sense of relaxation, a visit to a wellness spa can provide the perfect end to your day. Indulge in a massage or a yoga session, allowing the stresses of the day to melt away as you embrace the tranquility of the surroundings. Santa Barbara’s commitment to wellness is evident in its array of offerings, each designed to rejuvenate the body and soul.

This Winter Wine and Wellness Weekend in Santa Barbara promises a journey of discovery and indulgence, where every moment is an opportunity to savor the beauty and bounty of this enchanting region.