Best Western Travel Programs
California
Ride Route 66
Explore the history, adventure and kitsch of America's famous 'Mother Road', Best Western-style. Journey along the 2,400-mile Route 66 and take part in the monthly Scavenger Hunt to win great prizes!
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BEST WESTERN PLUS Encina Lodge & Suites
2220 Bath Street, Santa Barbara, California 93105-4322Phone: 805/682-7277 | Fax: 805/563-9319
Experience all that Santa Barbara has to offer at this charming hotel - adjacent to the Sansum Medical Center and Cottage Hospital.
The BEST WESTERN PLUS Encina Lodge & Suites, a full-service hotel, is ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Situated just 5 minutes from midtown Santa Barbara, this Southern California hotel is a short distance from beautiful local beaches and favorite attractions including the Mission Santa Barbara, the Museum of Natural History and the Red Tile Walking Tour. Other popular attractions nearby include Antioch University, the Brooks Institute, UCSB and the Santa Barbara Zoo. Guests will also find great shopping at nearby State Street and the Le Cumbre Shopping Plaza.
This Santa Barbara California hotel offers spacious, beautifully-appointed guest rooms and suites including kitchenettes. Each guest room features a refrigerator, cable satellite television with free HBO® and free wireless high-speed Internet access. This Santa Barbara accommodation also features a full-service restaurant and lounge. Other amenities include an outdoor heated swimming pool and hot tub, massage services, guest laundry and business center. The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle to the Santa Barbara Airport and Amtrak station.
For a fun-filled and relaxing stay in Santa Barbara, make a reservation at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Encina Lodge & Suites!
Seashore Cruise and Soother Package
Book Package
Take to the sea aboard the Double Dolphin, a 50-foot catamaran, for an unforgettable sunset sail off the coast of Santa Barbara, courtesy of the Santa Barbara Sailing Center. Catch sight of sea lions, dolphins and whales as they cruise the shimmering waters. Watch birds soar overhead while the sky turns ablaze with the setting sun. The ship's crew will swap stories of Santa Barbara's fascinating history and point out celebrated homes dotting the coastline like a string of jewels. The Seashore Cruise and Soother Package includes a sunset cruise for two with the Santa Barbara Sailing Center and a bottle of Chardonnay from Santa Barbara Winery in a commemorative jute tote. Plus a coupon book for shopping and dining discounts at La Cumbre Plaza.
Whales and Tales Package
Book Package
Voyage out onto the sparkling blue coastal waters of Santa Barbara aboard a high speed catamaran to catch sight of migrating whales. You'll encounter a breathtaking spectacle unlike any other as these graceful giants dive, spy hop and breach. In addition to the whales, you can watch for dolphins riding the bow wave and sea lions poking their heads up to say hello. The Santa Barbara Channel is home to a diverse array of marine life including dolphins, sea lions, seals, sea otters, birds, and more. The Whales and Tales package includes a whale watching tour, courtesy of Condor Express, snacks for the trip, a pair of souvenir ball caps and a tube of sunblock in a commemorative wine jute tote, plus a coupon book for shopping and dining discounts a La Cumbre Plaza.
Simple Pleasures Package
Book Package
Escape to Santa Barbara to reconnect with your sweetie and/or your kids and savor the simple pleasure of life. Now is a great time to get away and treat yourself and your loved ones to the great value of the Simple Pleasure Package. Stay in, order a pizza and cuddle up with a movie. You could also take a stroll hand-in-hand on the beach, watch the sunset together, catch some extra zzz's, or experience any of the 101 free things to do in Santa Barbara. Simple Pleasures truly are the best and you can experience it too! The Simple Pleasure Package includes accommodations for up to four guests, a large pizza and soda from Marty's Pizza - Santa Barbara's favorite local pizzeria, complimentary DVD rental from our media library, and a guide to 101 free things to do in Santa Barbara.
Romance on the Riviera Package
Book Package
Escape to Santa Barbara for a romantic getaway on the American Riviera®. With its glistening, beaches, Spanish courtyards, lush gardens, and warm, Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is undeniably a destination for lovers. At Chuck's Waterfront Grill, you and yours can dine on the deck as the sun sets over the harbor. Or choose Chuck's Steakhouse for its rich Hawaiian décor and romantic lighting to savor the best steaks in town. The Romance on the Riviera Package includes dinner for two at Chuck's Waterfront Grill or Chuck's Steakhouse, a box of gourmet chocolates, a bottle of Chardonnay from Santa Barbara Winery in a commemorative wine jute tote and one-night or two-night accommodations for two. Plus coupon book for shopping and dining discounts at La Cumbre Plaza Plus.
Tee and Sea Package
Book Package
Round out your stay in Santa Barbara with a round of golf at the Glen Annie Golf Club and a round of wine touring and tasting in Santa Barbara's scenic wine country. Glen Annie Golf Club is a championship golf course set in the scenic Santa Barbara foothills with breathtaking ocean and mountain views. The 6,420 yard par 71 layout is impeccably maintained and features lush fairways, quick greens, a cascading lake, and meandering creeks. Santa Barbara County features over 90 wineries split between four appellations. The Tee and Sea Package includes green fees for 18 holes of golf at the Glen Annie Golf Club, a golf cart, bucket of golf balls, personalized bag tag, and two night accommodation for two. Plus coupon book for shopping and dining discounts at La Cumbre Plaza.
Simple Pleasures Package
Book Package
Escape to Santa Barbara to reconnect with your sweetie and/or your kids and savor the simple pleasure of life. Now is a great time to get away and treat yourself and your loved ones to the great value of the Simple Pleasure Package. Stay in, order a pizza and cuddle up with a movie. You could also take a stroll hand-in-hand on the beach, watch the sunset together, catch some extra zzz's, or experience any of the 101 free things to do in Santa Barbara. Simple Pleasures truly are the best and you can experience it too! The Simple Pleasure Package includes accommodations for up to four guests, a large pizza and soda from Marty's Pizza - Santa Barbara's favorite local pizzeria, complimentary DVD rental from our media library, and a guide to 101 free things to do in Santa Barbara.
Tee and Sea Package
Book Package
Round out your stay in Santa Barbara with a round of golf at the Glen Annie Golf Club and a round of wine touring and tasting in Santa Barbara's scenic wine country. Glen Annie Golf Club is a championship golf course set in the scenic Santa Barbara foothills with breathtaking ocean and mountain views. The 6,420 yard par 71 layout is impeccably maintained and features lush fairways, quick greens, a cascading lake, and meandering creeks. Santa Barbara County features over 90 wineries split between four appellations. The Tee and Sea Package includes green fees for 18 holes of golf at the Glen Annie Golf Club, a golf cart, bucket of golf balls, personalized bag tag, and two night accommodation for two. Plus coupon book for shopping and dining discounts at La Cumbre Plaza.
Royal Romance Escape Package
Book Package
Escape to Santa Barbara for a romantic getaway on the American Riviera®. With its glistening, palm-lined beaches, Spanish courtyards, lush gardens, and warm Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is undeniably a destination for lovers and royals! The Royal Romance Escape Package includes accommodations for two, a bottle of champagne upon arrival, High Tea for two at Andersen's, Santa Barbara's finest authentic European bakery and Café and our list of the top 25 places to Kiss in Santa Barbara!
Royal Romance Escape Package
Book Package
Escape to Santa Barbara for a romantic getaway on the American Riviera®. With its glistening, palm-lined beaches, Spanish courtyards, lush gardens, and warm Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is undeniably a destination for lovers and royals! The Royal Romance Escape Package includes accommodations for two, a bottle of champagne upon arrival, High Tea for two at Andersen's, Santa Barbara's finest authentic European bakery and Café and our list of the top 25 places to Kiss in Santa Barbara!
Romance on the Riviera Package
Book Package
Escape to Santa Barbara for a romantic getaway on the American Riviera®. With its glistening, beaches, Spanish courtyards, lush gardens, and warm, Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is undeniably a destination for lovers. At Chuck's Waterfront Grill, you and yours can dine on the deck as the sun sets over the harbor. Or choose Chuck's Steakhouse for its rich Hawaiian décor and romantic lighting to savor the best steaks in town. The Romance on the Riviera Package includes dinner for two at Chuck's Waterfront Grill or Chuck's Steakhouse, a box of gourmet chocolates, a bottle of Chardonnay from Santa Barbara Winery in a commemorative wine jute tote and one-night or two-night accommodations for two. Plus coupon book for shopping and dining discounts at La Cumbre Plaza Plus.
Wine Package
Book Package
Taste your way through Santa Barbara's scenic wine country, savor its famous Chardonnays, Syrahs, and Sauvignon Blancs, and discover little-known varietals such as Albarino, Mourvedre, Nebbiolo, and Tocai Friulano. The Wine Package includes a touring map with over 90 wineries to help you chart your route to tasting rooms nestled among Santa Barbara's vineyard-draped hills. In addition to the map, the package includes a bottle of chardonnay from Santa Barbara Winery in a commemorative wine jute tote, discounts on wine country tours by Wine Edventures, and accommodations for two.
Seashore Cruise and Soother Package
Book Package
Take to the sea aboard the Double Dolphin, a 50-foot catamaran, for an unforgettable sunset sail off the coast of Santa Barbara, courtesy of the Santa Barbara Sailing Center. Catch sight of sea lions, dolphins and whales as they cruise the shimmering waters. Watch birds soar overhead while the sky turns ablaze with the setting sun. The ship's crew will swap stories of Santa Barbara's fascinating history and point out celebrated homes dotting the coastline like a string of jewels. The Seashore Cruise and Soother Package includes a sunset cruise for two with the Santa Barbara Sailing Center and a bottle of Chardonnay from Santa Barbara Winery in a commemorative jute tote. Plus a coupon book for shopping and dining discounts at La Cumbre Plaza.
Whales and Tales Package
Book Package
Voyage out onto the sparkling blue coastal waters of Santa Barbara aboard a high speed catamaran to catch sight of migrating whales. You'll encounter a breathtaking spectacle unlike any other as these graceful giants dive, spy hop and breach. In addition to the whales, you can watch for dolphins riding the bow wave and sea lions poking their heads up to say hello. The Santa Barbara Channel is home to a diverse array of marine life including dolphins, sea lions, seals, sea otters, birds, and more. The Whales and Tales package includes a whale watching tour, courtesy of Condor Express, snacks for the trip, a pair of souvenir ball caps and a tube of sunblock in a commemorative wine jute tote, plus a coupon book for shopping and dining discounts a La Cumbre Plaza.
Wine Package
Book Package
Taste your way through Santa Barbara's scenic wine country, savor its famous Chardonnays, Syrahs, and Sauvignon Blancs, and discover little-known varietals such as Albarino, Mourvedre, Nebbiolo, and Tocai Friulano. The Wine Package includes a touring map with over 90 wineries to help you chart your route to tasting rooms nestled among Santa Barbara's vineyard-draped hills. In addition to the map, the package includes a bottle of chardonnay from Santa Barbara Winery in a commemorative wine jute tote, discounts on wine country tours by Wine Edventures, and accommodations for two.
Local Events Worth Considering:
May 2012
Street painters, transform the Mission plaza using pastels on pavement to create 150 vibrant and colorful, large scale images. In Santa Barbara.
June 2012
At the Stearns Wharf/East Beach Cleanup & Ty Warner Sea Center, in Santa Barbara.
Come to the Monterey Fairgrounds for the greatest assortment of Beer ever assembled on the Central Coast.
Family fun car show in Capitola.
Car Show, Cruise Night, Surf & Turf Dinner, Gala Night, Live Entertainment and Beer Garden. In Pismo Beach.
At the Live Oak Camp in Santa Barbara.
At Ryon Park, in Lompoc.
Gathering of local community citizens promoting youth and the Arts and Blues.
At Alameda Park. Parade on the 23rd on State Street, in Santa Barbara.
At the Atascadero Lake Park in Atascadero featuring 80 participating wineries, culinary creations by local chefs, artist showcase and live music.
Check out hundreds of pre-1988 American, British, European & Japanese motorcycles and scooters. In Capitola.
July 2012
Family fun and festivities to celebrate July 4. In Scotts Valley.
In Santa Barbara.
At the Rancho La Patera & Stow House, in Santa Barbara.
At Girsh Park in Santa Barbara.
At Leadbetter Beach in Santa Barbara.
Promoting the traditions of the California Rodeo Salinas and the West. In Salinas.
At the Chase Palm Park/Soccer Field, in Santa Barbara.
Thousands of runners from across America & around the globe return to Santa Cruz for this annual 6-mile race to Capitola-by-the-Sea.
Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix featuring the MotoGP World Championship. In Salinas.
In Oak Park in Santa Barbara.
August 2012
In Santa Barbara.
Flock to historic downtown Watsonville to enjoy delicious food, carnival rides, entertainment and tasty strawberry treats.
Enjoy fine art, wine & beer tasting, great food, and live entertainment at Skypark in Scotts Valley.
200 of the most prized collector cars and motorcycles in the world roll onto the 18th fairway at Pebble Beach. In Carmel.
At the Santa Barbara City College.
Verry Berry Extraordinary. Held at the Fairgrounds in Monterey.
Sand sculpture contest, budding artists event, concerts, chalk art on the seawall, rowboat races, fishing derby and parade.
September 2012
Join in the fun at this air show at the Watsonville airport.
Over 150 fine artists and 21 wineries will participate in this year's Festival, in Capitola.
At Riviera Park in Santa Barbara.
The 2012 Fair theme celebrates the berry and the importance of this delicious crop. In Watsonville.
Cherry's Classic Cars take over Cannery Row.
Home of one of the most spectacular birding and wildlife venues in North America.
55th Annual festival at the Monterey Fairgrounds.
32nd Anniversary Air Show at the Salinas Municipal Airport.
At the Natural History Museum in Santa Barbara.
October 2012
Santa Barbara's restaurants, wineries, gourmet purveyors and galleries dish out culinary festivals, cooking classes, winemaker dinners and more.
At the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden.
At the De La Guerra Plaza in Santa Barbara.
At the Stow House in Santa Barbara.
This is the South Coast's largest free festival. The events are located in downtown Carpinteria on Linden Avenue.
In Santa Barbara.
At Girsh Park in Santa Barbara.
In Santa Barbara.
November 2012
At the Rockwood Women's Club in Santa Barbara.
On State Street in Santa Barbara.
December 2012
In Santa Barbara.
In Santa Barbara.
In Santa Barbara.
Nearby Attractions:
List All CA AttractionsChumash Painted Cave State Historic Park
The Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park is located near Goleta in the Santa Ynez Mountains of the Los Padres National Forest. The Chumash Native Americans created the rock art on the cave walls, in the 1600s and earlier. Hike down a steep path to the protected entrance of the cave, to take a look at these incredible, colorful art carvings.
The cave has been included on the National Register of Historical Places since 1972. This sandstone cave is a must-see for visitors in the Santa Barbara area in central coast region of California. Become a guest of one of the several area Best Western hotels for comfortable and convenient lodging.
El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Site
A former military installaltion, the Presidio of Santa Barbara is one of the city's most significant landmarks. Just off of Main Street, at the corner of Santa Barbara Street and East Canon Perdido Street, visitors can see two of the original sections of the Presidio quadrangle.
An active archeological dig continues at the site as well as on-going reconstruction of the original layout of buildings. The original El Cuartel section of the Presidio is Santa Barbara's oldest building and the second oldest in California. Escape the hustle and bustle of busy Santa Barbara for a visit to this state historic park and enjoy a look into California's past.
