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Santa Barbara Vacation:
Best Relaxation Ever Experienced

Santa Barbara vacation is a wonderful place for relaxation. When there, you feel as though you can go back in time. There is an "early west" feeling with many horses in the area.. The Spanish architecture is some of the most beautiful in the world. When by the ocean at the bottom of the main street, you can view the mountains and the palm trees along the ocean drive. It makes for a very pleasant place to stroll The smell of the fresh ocean air and the breezes just can't be beat.

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If you continue to the end of State Street (the main street) you will come to Stearns Wharf. It is a wonderful experience to just keep going out onto the wharf (drive or walk).

There you get the total "ocean" experience with the seagulls, pelicans and, for those with sharp eyes, sea lions, dolphins, fish and other sea creatures. At the end of the wharf, you feel you are "on" the ocean along with the many people fishing. While on the wharf, you can experience some tasty treats at the candy or ice cream store but also have some fine dining at one of the two restaurants on the wharf. Moby Dick's is my choice for atmosphere and the best food not to mention the wonderful view of the ocean and the many boats passing by. A walk on the wharf at nighttime is breathtaking to look back and see the lights of the city.

A walk along the beach can be very interesting whether you are just in it for the exercise or to search for interesting sea shells. It is always good to look up and see the beautiful scenery surrounding you whether it is the ocean, the mountains, line of palm trees or the city (especially at night with the lights on in the city.) The beach is also a wonderful place to watch the sun go down in the evening. Before dark, there is a walkway for skaters and bikers that takes you all along the beach area. If you don't have a bike, there are places that you can rent them.

My favorite place to dine is Cold Spring Tavern, a place with a lot of history and atmosphere. It is a drive up the San Marcos pass from the city but well worth it. When you get there, you feel as if you were taken back to the 1880's. After investigating outside interesting things, the inside of the tavern has many old antiques in each room that probably has a very interesting story behind them. There is a fireplace in each room that makes it especially cozy in the cooler months.

Whatever you choose from the menu, you are sure to like it. The chef does a fine job and you are in for a wonderful dining experience. If you want a romantic, wonderful getaway, Cold Spring is the experience you want. If you want some action, take a trip up on a Sunday. On Sundays a lot of bikers ride up and there is live music outside along with delicious tri-tip sandwiches. If you want a quieter time or family dining experience with a chance to investigate the area, it is suggested that you go sometime during the week. Be sure to call for a reservation anytime. Check out

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