The digital world has become our oyster in these new days of social distancing and shelter-in-place. And we’ve certainly got more time on our hands to reminisce about past adventures and daydream of future trips. So, here are virtual tours to help keep Santa Barbara in your mind’s eye and transport you to our sandy shores. Until we can meet IRL again, bon virtual voyage!
Serenity Along The Waterfront
Feel instantly relaxed when tuning into the live webcam streaming the picturesque view of the Santa Barbara Waterfront, perched at Hotel Milo. Watch waves rolling in on West Beach as a palm tree sways in the wind. Imagine a refreshing sea breeze blowing against your skin as you picture your future self paddling a kayak around Stearns Wharf, playing beach volleyball or sinking your toes in the sand. Click to watch
Dive Under the Sea
Explore under the ocean’s surface and be mesmerized by the sights and sounds of the Kelp Forest Cam at Anacapa Island. Set 25 miles offshore of Santa Barbara, the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary is an ecological paradise for outdoor lovers. The pristine natural environment is a veritable playground for hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and SCUBA diving. Nicknamed “The Galapagos of North America,” the islands and surrounding marine sanctuary are home to more than 1,000 unique species. Keep your eyes peeled for Garibaldi (California’s bright orange state fish) swimming through the waving kelp forests. Click to watch
Get Wild at Santa Barbara Zoo
The Santa Barbara Zoo is bringing all of the animals to you through a regular drop of videos on their Facebook and Instagram pages. Meet local zoo residents like Monty the penguin and Bam Bam the porcupine as they tour the zoo to visit neighbors like Michael the giraffe and Veronica the vulture. Say “aww” as you watch otters in a cuddle puddle and see a meerkat birthday party. There’s no end to the cuteness at our beloved Zoo with a view. Click to watch
See What’s in Bloom at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Immerse yourself in the serene natural beauty of the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Director of Education and Engagement, Scot Pipkin, takes us on a walk along the winding paths of Island View Garden, narrating the sights and sounds around him. Learn about the native plants, hear birds calling and see bees pollinating the vibrant yellow and purple wildflowers in bloom. Take deep, meditative breaths as you conjure earthy smells like fresh rain and sunburnt sage. Click to watch
