Malibu, Montecito, and Santa Barbara

After you drive north past the beaches of Santa Monica, you'll reach the shores of Malibu. Much of this hilly, rural enclave is hard to reach – as well as decipher – with gated compounds, meandering horse ranches, and hidden retreats. But the historic pier is a place that everyone loves, from fishermen (and fisherwomen) to young families, celebrities, and long-time residents.
Here you'll find two Malibu Farm eateries: the relaxed Malibu Farm Cafe (at the end of the pier) and the Malibu Farm Restaurant (at the front), both offering California cuisine – fresh, organic, and local – with a gorgeous view of the water. The café is open for outdoor dining or to-go options, while the Malibu Farm Restaurant is a full-service restaurant with a full bar. Choose which works best for you and enjoy the experience.
Café Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Restaurant Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Yay! Your fantastic adventure along the California coast begins right now. As you pull onto the famous Highway 1, every corner is a paradise for your eyes and soul. Open the windows (and the roof, if possible) of your vehicle and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Welcome to paradise! Park your car along Channel Drive and get out onto the beach to stretch your legs and enjoy the remarkable views of the Pacific. Butterfly Beach is one of Santa Barbara's most beautiful beaches, and where the city's Four Seasons Resort is located. You'll soon see why.
Depending on the tide, you can walk along the beach or along the beach walk, just off Channel Drive in either direction. Head north towards East Beach, another beauty, if you’re looking for a longer walk. Enjoy the views!
Note that this beach has no public facilities like restrooms, picnic tables, or lifeguards.

Just across the freeway is the luxe town of Montecito, home of Oprah Winfrey, Meghan and Harry (the Duke and Duchess of Sussex), and Ellen DeGeneres, among many other California-based celebrities.
Perhaps you'll spot one at one of the shops or eateries along Coast Village Road, where you'll stop for lunch at Coast & Olive, a restaurant of the Montecito Inn. Known for their French and New American classics, they also serve up fabulous cocktails.
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Reserve your spot here.

Drive through some of Santa Barbara's historic neighbourhoods to see the Old Mission, built in 1786. This is the 10th of California's 21 missions, considered the ""Queen of the Missions"" and easily one of the most beautiful. Look out for some friars, who still live and work out of the church.
Take a self-guided tour to see the lush gardens, museum, church, Sacred Garden, and cemetery.
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
More information can be found on the website and reservations are not needed for groups under 10.
Free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Mission's spacious front parking lot off Los Olivos Street.

The Presidio is one of Santa Barbara's most historic neighbourhoods, showcasing excellent examples of historic architecture and stately homes. Here, you'll also find several tasting rooms showcasing a range of local wines from California's Central Coast. One of its finest is Au Bon Climat, based in nearby Santa Maria, known for its Pinot Noir, Burgundian-style Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Gris varietals.
Other fine tasting rooms nearby include Jamie Slone Wines (of former race car fame), Frequency Wines, and Grassini Family Vineyards.
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturday – Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Make a reservation here.

Drive into the foothills to El Encanto, one of Santa Barbara's most iconic and luxurious hotels for dinner. You're staying in this wonderful hotel tonight, so you can settle in and get some rest before dinner.
The ocean-facing restaurant serves up fresh and local cuisine, with a focus on freshly caught seafood from the nutrient-rich waters of the Santa Barbara Channel below. Expect an indulgent and memorable meal, with some of the best views along the Central California Coast.
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m, 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Saturday – Sunday: Closed
For more information, please visit the official website.

Rest your head and dream about the road ahead, where the urban sprawl of Southern California gives way to the rolling hills of Central California's wine country. The Belmond brand is known the world over for their premium properties. What’s unique about this hotel is its location in the hills above Santa Barbara, offering a stunning drive in a magnificent neighbourhood with epic views of the coast below. Book Now
If you are a TCS member and would like to book a hotel with 3% cashback, please follow the instructions via this link.