Your Guide for Dining, Adventure & Relaxation
Father’s Day is the perfect time to honor the incredible men in our lives with a weekend filled with bold flavors, unforgettable outings, and well-earned relaxation. Whether he’s a whiskey connoisseur, a coastal adventurer, or simply someone who enjoys good food and great company, Santa Barbara offers a variety of ways to make him feel truly appreciated.
From seaside brunches to wine country escapes and elevated outdoor experiences, here’s your guide to celebrating Father’s Day the Santa Barbara way.
Courtesy of Riverbench.
Sip Something Rare: Tributary Pinot Noir at Riverbench
June 13–15 | 12:00–6:00 p.m.
Start the weekend with an exclusive tasting at Riverbench’s Santa Barbara Tasting Room, where guests can enjoy a glass of the 2013 Tributary Pinot Noir, a limited-release vintage with fewer than 10 cases remaining. This world-class wine embodies exceptional craftsmanship and complexity, making it a rare treat for the wine-loving dad. It’s an elegant way to kick off the celebration.
Courtesy of noordinaryresort.com
Brunch at El Encanto
June 15 | 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
If you’re looking to truly impress, book a table at El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel, for their Father’s Day “Dads & Grads” brunch. Enjoy a lavish buffet featuring local seafood, farm-fresh vegetables, housemade cheese bread, and craft beer—all served with panoramic views of the Pacific from The Terrace or amidst the fragrant greenery of the chef’s garden. A high-end experience that will be as memorable as it is delicious.
A Gift That’s Just His Cup of “Tee”
Santa Barbara’s stunning landscape makes it a premier destination for golfers. Whether Dad wants a full round or a quick game, the region’s courses offer a range of options:
Courtesy of Glen Annie Golf Club
Glen Annie Golf Club
Championship-level course nestled in the foothills with sweeping views of the Pacific and Channel Islands.
Courtesy of tripadvisor.com
Sandpiper Golf Club
Known as one of the most beautiful oceanfront courses in the country, with links-style design and views from every hole.
Courtesy of tripadvisor.com
Santa Barbara Golf Club
A scenic par-70 course centrally located and beloved by locals for its playability and views.
Post-game Pick
Courtesy of GreatBeerNow
Swing by Third Window Brewery for a locally brewed cold one in a laid-back, rustic setting. Housed in a historic barn at The Mill, Third Window is known for its bold and experimental brews. Try their “Table Beer” or Belgian-style ales and pair it with bites from their on-site kitchen.
Game On: Pickleball with Pops
Looking for something playful and energetic? Grab a paddle and challenge Dad to a few rounds of pickleball. With courts available at locations like Municipal Tennis & Pickleball Center or local parks, it’s an easy, fun way to share some laughs and get moving—no golf cart required.
Cruise Through Nostalgia: Father’s Day Classics by the Sea
June 15 | 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Channel Islands Maritime Museum, Oxnard
Take a short drive down the coast for the Classics by the Sea Car Show, a unique Father’s Day event hosted at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum. Stroll past wooden boats, rare vintage automobiles, and classic woodies, all on display by the water. The event features live music, food trucks, and interactive exhibits—perfect for car lovers and families alike. Admission is free, and the laid-back harbor atmosphere makes for a relaxed day of old-school cool.
Fire Up the Grill: Shalhoob’s BBQ & Beer
Courtesy of Shalhoob’s Funk Zone
If your dad is happiest behind the grill, you can’t go wrong with a stop at Shalhoob’s Funk Zone Patio, where premium meats, craft beers, and lively outdoor vibes come together. Order a platter of smoked brisket, house-made sausages, or tri-tip tacos, and pair it with one of their signature Shalhoob tall beers.
Want to bring the flavor home? Gift him the “Sip, Snack, Season & Grill Box” from Santa Barbara Gift Baskets, which includes Shalhoob’s BBQ rub, Original Seasoning, beef jerky, and two craft beers—plus a custom grilling apron that will make him king of the backyard.
Nature Calls: Gardens, Butterflies & More
These nature-centric options are perfect for low-key bonding in beautiful surroundings. For dads who’d rather trade fairways for forest paths, spend the day at:
Courtesy of Wikipedia, Vahe Martirosyan
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Enjoy shaded walking trails, the Butterflies Alive! exhibit, and serene views along Mission Creek.
Courtesy of sbbotanicgarden.org
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Explore 78 acres of California-native plants and landscapes, from redwoods to wildflowers to meadow views of the Channel Islands.
Set Sail for Father’s Day
Let Dad experience Santa Barbara from the water with a private sailing charter through Santa Barbara Sailing Center or SunSwept Sailing. Choose a mellow afternoon cruise or get hands-on with the sails. Not into sailing? Try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking through the harbor—active, scenic, and unforgettable.
Celebrate the Men Who Make Life Meaningful
Whether he prefers fine food or fresh air, handcrafted cocktails or coastal calm, Santa Barbara is brimming with thoughtful ways to say thank you this Father’s Day. However you choose to celebrate, here’s to creating memories that honor everything Dad brings to your life.