Santa Barbara Highlights

Take in the highlights of Santa Barbra in this short outing to discover her treasures including free time to browse her quaint streets.

From the pier, depart for a scenic drive to the Old Santa Barbara Mission. With its grand double bell towers, lush gardens and the majestic San Ynez mountains as a backdrop, the Mission is one of the city’s most picturesque landmarks. Known as “Queen of the Missions” for its exceptional beauty, the Santa Barbara Mission was founded by the Spanish Franciscans in 1786. More than 200 years later, it’s still an active parish church and a vital and enduring element of Santa Barbara’s cultural landscape.

Pause here for photos before continuing to the El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park to view the remains of the Spanish Outpost built in 1782. Across the street is the unique County Courthouse built in 1929 in the Spanish-Moorish architectural style with its carved doors, special widows, balconies and turrets. From the courthouse you are introduced to State Street in downtown. Here, free time of afforded to explore the city center and browse her streets for treasures or enjoy a café. At the appointed time rejoin your guide for the return to the ship.