Santa Barbara // SB 1

After a full day in Los Angeles and an evening drive to Santa Barbara, we woke up the next morning refreshed and relaxed. We started our lazy morning off right by getting out of the the waterbed (yes, the place we were staying at had a waterbed) and hitting the beach. The house we were staying in for the next few days was only a short walk to the beach which was convenient. 

The beach was for locals only, so we had the place to ourselves. Although, I think Caroline was enjoying her coffee more than the beach...

It took us a while to get going, but hey, we were on vacation and enjoying ourselves! Next on our agenda was dropping off my cousin Xander at the University of California Santa Barbara for a basketball camp.

Mom, Gina, Caroline and I passed the time walking around UCSB's campus while Julie and Chris checked Xander into his camp. Let me tell you, if it weren't for that ocean breeze, I may be dead. It was quite hot there, although it felt great to be in some sunshine.

On our walk, we stumbled upon the Art, Design & Architecture Museum, and popped in for a peak. It was fun to walk around the space, and I captured this funny picture of Caroline and Gina photobombing in the back.

We even ventured over to the beach, which is right on campus. RIGHT. ON. CAMPUS. How cool is that?! If I went here, I know I'd be a the beach almost every day. 

Once Xander got situated with his basketball camp and orientation for the parents/players, the six of us zoomed (I say zoomed because we were in the Tesla) to downtown to do some shopping on State Street. 

All of the buildings have the traditional Spanish colonial architecture and it is SO CUTE. And I'm talking everything, even the Macy's. It was also that time of the day and we were looking for a snack to munch on and cool us down. ICE CREAM TIME. We had heard of McConnell's and saw the line outside, so we knew it had to be good. 

Once inside, I was overwhelmed by the options and flavors. I constantly debated with myself between Salted Caramel Chip, Boysenberry Rosé Milk Jam, Double Peanut Butter Chip, even Churros Con Leche. SO MANY FLAVORS, SUCH LITTLE TIME (to try them all...). 

In the end I went for Pistachio Amaretto and Eureka Lemon and Marionberries. It was excellent. I think I'm really starting to step out of my comfort zone and away from vanilla, but not completely, it will always be my favorite!

Gina thoroughly enjoyed hers! 

With ice cream in hand, our stroll took us down State Street and to all of the shops. Retail therapy is always a good way to pass some time. 

After a bit of unsuccessful shopping, we decided to make our way all the way down the street, straight for the water and the pier. 

The weather was just lovely and I was absolutely digging all of the palm trees and flowers. Of course, I Gina and mom pointed out LANY flowers along the way. *major eye roll*

The beach was teeming with people enjoying the beautiful weather. Sailboats we cruising around the ocean and paddleboarders we making there way across the waves. 

This was the perfect way to end the day and enjoy some of the salty air. Santa Barbara is a gorgeous place!