The Ultimate Santa Barbara Wellness Guide
September 26, 2023
Santa Barbara is more than just a coastal paradise; it's a wellness haven that takes your body, mind, and soul to another level. Whether you're booking a relaxing spa treatments, exploring local farmer's markets, or deepening your yoga practice, The American Riviera is guaranteed to up your wellness game. Check out some of our favorite local spots that are guaranteed to give your trip just a touch of transcendence.
Spas
Float Spa
Float Spa is a must-visit destination for an unparalleled relaxation experience. With its signature floatation therapy, a practice that involves floating effortlessly in a sensory deprivation tank filled with saltwater, you’ll be able to truly surrender and reach new levels of enlightenment. This unique experience allows you to disconnect from the world and experience a state of deep relaxation and introspection.
Salt Cave Santa Barbara
Yes, salt can be good for you. At Salt Cave Santa Barbara you can step into a room designed to replicate the microclimate of natural salt caves which have been proven to increase relaxation and decrease daily anxieties and stress levels. The therapeutic ambiance and mineral-rich air improves respiratory health and promotes overall well-being. Salt Cave Santa Barbara also offers Himalayan salt massages and facials for a truly rejuvenating experience.
The Spa at Ojai Valley Inn
Located just a short drive from Santa Barbara, the Spa at Ojai Valley Inn is a hidden gem nestled amidst the picturesque Ojai Valley. The spa's serene setting and wide range of wellness treatments, from massages to meditation sessions, create an inviting retreat for self-care and relaxation. Embrace the serene surroundings and let the skilled therapists pamper you with their healing touch.
Chill Therapy
Cold Therapy is the most talked about wellness trend right now, and Chill Therapy offers cryotherapy, infrared sauna, and even more innovative treatments. Cryotherapy - what it’s known for - involves brief exposure to extremely cold temperatures, which is believed to reduce inflammation and promote recovery. P.S. this is not for the faint of heart, so book accordingly.
Farmer's Markets
Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market
With multiple locations throughout the week, the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market is a treasure trove of organic fruits, vegetables, artisanal products, and much more. Strolling through the market, you'll find yourself surrounded by the freshly baked goods, impeccable California produce and lively local chatter that makes shopping an immersive experience.
Montecito Farmers Market
Located in the charming neighborhood of Montecito, this market boasts an array of high-quality, locally-grown produce and artisanal products. The Montecito Farmers Market is not only a place to purchase the freshest ingredients but also a chance to partake in a Santa Barbara community ritual. You might even spot a celebrity or two while you’re there.
Yogas
Sol Seek Yoga
This studio is known for its daily classes and also offers exceptional wellness retreats that combine the healing powers of yoga, mindfulness, and nature immersion. Led by experienced instructors, these retreats take place in serene locations, such as the Santa Ynez Mountains or along the coastline. You can expect daily yoga sessions, meditation practices, nourishing meals, and guided nature excursions. Sol Seek Yoga's retreats provide a sanctuary for self-discovery and self-care, leaving you feeling balanced and centered.
Yoga Soup
Located in the heart of Santa Barbara, Yoga Soup offers a community-centered approach to well-being. Besides traditional yoga classes, Yoga Soup hosts workshops and events focused on mindfulness, nutrition, and self-care, fostering a holistic approach to wellness.
Santa Barbara Yoga Center
With a wide range of classes and experienced instructors, The Santa Barbara Yoga Center offers a diverse and inclusive space for yoga enthusiasts. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner, you'll find classes that suit your needs, from vinyasa flow to restorative yoga.
Hikes
For a quintessential Santa Barbara hiking experience, head to Inspiration Point Trail in the Los Padres National Forest. This iconic trail treats hikers to panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains. The trail is accessible year-round and offers a moderate climb, making it ideal for both seasoned hikers and novices. As you ascend, breathe in the fresh air scented with the fragrance of chaparral and eucalyptus, and savor the awe-inspiring views that await you at the top.
The Douglas Family Preserve, also known as the Wilcox Property, is a coastal gem offering easy and accessible hiking trails with stunning ocean views. This preserved area boasts a mix of scenic coastal bluffs, grassy meadows, and pockets of coastal scrub. A stroll through this coastal preserve provides a refreshing escape from the city, allowing you to embrace the serene beauty of the ocean and the vibrant flora.
Venture to Gaviota State Park for a more rugged hiking experience along the Gaviota Peak Trail. The trail weaves through diverse terrain, from shaded canyons to exposed ridges, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding hills. As you reach the peak, take a moment to appreciate the vastness of the ocean and the beauty of the untouched landscapes.