Santa Barbara, just 95 miles north of Los Angeles, is an easy coastal road trip for travelers coming to Southern California for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Whether you’re arriving early, staying after the final whistle or traveling between match days, this seaside city offers a refreshing change of pace from the energy of Los Angeles — without pulling you far from the action. Think of it as your scenic intermission: beaches, Spanish-style architecture and locally sourced cuisine that let you slow down before diving back into game day.
Day 1
Morning: Travel north from LA on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, an easy, car-free way to slip out of the World Cup host city and into a slower coastal rhythm. The ocean-hugging route feels like a vacation before you even arrive. For inspiration on where to stay, reference this guide to Santa Barbara’s top eco-friendly hotels — ideal for travelers looking to keep their World Cup trip sustainable.
Afternoon: After the energy of a game day, start with something calm. Head to East Beach for a peaceful shoreline walk, explore the city’s Spanish-inspired roots with the free Red Tile Walking Tour or a visit to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse for panoramic views. If you still have some post-match energy to burn, rent a bike from Cal Coast Adventures and cruise the Cabrillo Bike Path along the coast.
For lunch, settle in at Convivo at Santa Barbara Inn, where locally sourced ingredients shine in fresh salads, seafood pastas and creative flatbreads. The ocean-view patio is a perfect place to decompress after the excitement of the stands.
Evening: Unwind with a sunset stroll at Butterfly Beach, watching the sky shift to soft pinks and golds — a calming contrast to stadium lights and roaring crowds. For dinner, enjoy a relaxed yet refined meal at Michelin-starred and Michelin Green-starred Caruso’s, or explore other Michelin Guide restaurants in Santa Barbara.
Day 2
Morning: Start with a hike on one of Santa Barbara’s scenic trails, followed by a refreshing dip at Leadbetter Beach. Then grab a quick breakfast and coffee at Dart Coffee in the harbor, known for its ethically sourced coffee and locally made pastries and breakfast burritos. Check out these other top coffee shops to get your morning caffeine fix.
Afternoon: Take a chocolate factory tour at Twenty-Four Blackbirds, a taco tour with Taco Tour Santa Barbara or a tour of the Funk Zone with Eat This, Shoot That! Perhaps a custom tour is more your speed? Set off on your own adventure along the Urban Wine Trail to explore over 20 tasting rooms featuring varietals produced by Santa Barbara wine country vineyards, like at Au Bon Climat and Jamie Slone Wines. Nearby lunch options include Mediterranean cuisine at Tamar, American bites at Brass Bear or artisan pizza from Lucky Penny.
Evening: For dinner, enjoy elevated Mexican cuisine at Flor de Maiz, where bold flavors, fresh seafood and house-made tortillas are on the menu. After dinner, you’re perfectly placed to wander to nearby spots and catch a World Cup game in a more laid-back setting.
Day 3
Morning & Afternoon: Get active with kayaking or paddleboarding through Santa Barbara Adventure Company or Paddle Sports Center, or try a surf lesson with Santa Barbara Surf School or Surf Happens. It’s a refreshing way to start your final day before heading back to Los Angeles.
Then enjoy brunch at Scarlett Begonia, where organic, locally sourced ingredients shine in dishes like lemon ricotta pancakes, chilaquiles and house-made eggs Benedict.
Three days in Santa Barbara offers the reset you need between match days — then it’s an easy drive back to Los Angeles feeling refreshed. Or, if the coast has you hooked, take advantage of the third night free offer and turn a quick escape into a longer stay before returning to the World Cup action.
