How Long: 2 hours to 2 days
One of California's prettiest towns, Santa Barbara's Mediterranean-style architecture and red-tiled roofs have earned it the nickname "American Riviera." Its east-west facing coastline creates a moderate climate that's exceptionally nice, even in sunny southern California.
For an easy peek at the town without stopping, follow this route: From US 101 northbound, exit at Cabrillo Blvd., follow it along the waterfront to State Street. Turn right on State Street to Carrillo, then left on Carrillo to rejoin US 101. This routes also works in reverse, just turn back under the highway toward downtown after exiting. A word of warning: Cabrillo and Carrillo are two different streets. Read the highway exit signs carefully, and don't mistake either one of them for Castillo.
Santa Barbara also makes a nice place to stop for a meal and to stretch your legs. Follow the route above, park downtown and you'll find lots of places to eat on State Street. Or exit at Milpas Street and go away from the ocean to La Super Rica (622 N. Milpas), an authentic taco stand where the tortillas are handmade seconds before they're cooked and lines on weekends can snake down the block.
On Sundays, you'll also find an excellent arts and crafts market along the waterfront.
Read More About Santa Barbara: What there is to do, where to eat, places to stay