We can think of so many reasons to book a staycation in Santa Barbara. Between its stunning beaches, scenic Spanish & Colonial architecture, wineries, local restaurants, and curated shops for a little retail therapy, Santa Barbara is an out of LA hotspot that, ideally, is a place to visit any time of year. But here’s what we really love about good ol’ SB. It’s a weekend or vacation destination that truly gives you a feeling of ultimate relaxation. And if you’re staying at the new Courtyard Santa Barbara Downtown, which is also home to its signature restaurant Saint Remy, you’ll get to Monday with a recharge like no other.
- The entrance lobby
- Bright and beautiful bathrooms
- The view from the Rooftop Terrace
We got the chance to visit the stylish new Courtyard Santa Barbara Downtown, a Marriott hotel, which sits on the iconic State Street, and BONUS! It’s just a few blocks alway from the vibrant downtown scene (including the Funk Zone). But stepping through the doors of the hotel, you’ll immediately feel those calm coastal vibes. Washes of blues, neutrals and gold compliment the lobby’s cozy waiting area for check in, and if you get a chance to be checked in by Aron, consider yourself lucky. He was incredibly helpful in navigating parking and locating the hotel’s key spots and amenities, like the hotel’s full gym, two rooftop terraces ( both with gorgeous sunset views of the Santa Barbara skyline) its sparkling pool and spa, and fire pit. Yeah, we wouldn’t expect anything less from a hotel owned by the classy former ABC bachelor, Andrew Firestone (remember him? we do…he was a total fan favorite). As far as the guest rooms, they were super chic, modern and bright and some come with a spacious balcony. The bathrooms also had superior lighting too. A plus for us since nice bright white lights are a necessity when it comes to applying makeup and doing your hair for dinner. Speaking of dinner, let’s chat about the hotel’s restaurant, which is about to become Santa Barbara’s next great local hot spot.
Saint Remy was a total casual vibe. It’s not stuffy or pretentious, but the way they’ve crafted their food and drink menu screams upscale. Upon entering Saint Remy, you’re greeted with a super large, super cute instagram worthy sign of the restaurant. Inside, there is a large L-shaped bar, common areas with TV’s to sit, drink and watch a game, cozy booths with their own TV’s too, plus a spacious and long table for bigger parties. You also won’t be disappointed with their drink menu. It has cocktail options that range from margaritas, espresso martinis, Old fashioned’s to a phenomenal wine list. We went for an off menu drink crafted by bartenders Johnny and Jorge: a blood orange margarita. Yeah, it was pretty delicious.
- Our Editor arrives at Courtyard Santa Barbara Downtown
- Pool views from the balcony
- Our Editor arrives to dinner at Saint Remy
Can’t make it to Santa Barbara for Spring Break? No problem. Here are some ideas to make the most of it in LA.