Romance on the American Riviera: Santa Barbara is a Couple's Paradise

Thousands of viewers will tune in to witness the spectacular ceremony set in the dreamy wedding locale nestled between the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains. The lush gardens, red roof tiles, and Spanish colonial archways of the glamorous resort will serve as the perfect backdrop as the two reality stars say “I do.” While some may gawk at the stunning scenery and attribute it to the magic of TV, the truth is, it's real–and you can experience it too.

The name itself, Santa Barbara, The American Riviera®, conjures up romantic images. The picturesque city bordered by palm-lined beaches and majestic mountains make Santa Barbara feel like it is in its own little world – just how two people in love feel. It's no wonder why it is consistently chosen as a wedding destination and romantic escape. Horseback riding through the sand, strolling through vineyards in wine country, snuggling up under the stars–Santa Barbara offers all of the traditional romantic activities, and goes above and beyond.

Adventurous couples can kayak or stand-up paddle board alongside sea lions and dolphins, sharing amazing views of Santa Barbara from the water. A bouquet of flowers has been done; instead, stroll through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden's exquisite exhibits of California native plants displayed in beautiful landscaped settings. A lunch in the mountains can inspire romance at Cold Springs Tavern, an old stagecoach rest stop from the late 1800s. Or, simply breathe in the salty air and swirl your glasses at Deep Sea Tasting Room on Stearns Wharf, soaking in 360-degree ocean views and sipping delicious wine. A picnic at the iconic Santa Barbara County Courthouse is always a treat, just be sure to climb up the clock tower and gaze out over the red-roof dotted horizon. The Sunken Gardens below are a site to behold all by themselves, and in the summer movies are shown on the grassy courtyard lawn–a perfect date night. Score tickets to the Santa Barbara Bowl for a live concert in the amphitheater, a unique venue under the stars that is sure to spark a romantic evening full of music and fun.



For romantic digs during a getaway, look no further than Sean and Catherine's pick–Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. A Hollywood favorite since 1927, the oceanfront resort's secluded twenty-acre property features a blend of botanical gardens, coastal panoramas, and world-class amenities. Book your very own Spanish-style cottage and unwind to the sound of crashing ocean waves. Dine on the patio of its Bella Vista restaurant, spotting hummingbirds hopping from flower to flower and whales breaching in the distance. A couple's massage at the spa can end the weekend on a high note – choose from a variety of options and then head home feeling healthy, happy, and more in love than ever before.

The Resort offers a number of packages and experiences specially designed to fan the flames of romance. Enjoy champagne and strawberries then linger over breakfast in bed with the Celebration Package, or spend an extra day exploring or escaping together with a third night free.

Featured on the cover of Travel + Leisure in May 2013 and voted Best Getaway by L.A. Times Readers' Choice Awards in 2012, Santa Barbara is located just 92 miles north of Los Angeles and 332 miles south of San Francisco, on the Pacific coastline. Visitors can arrive via scenic Highway 101, train, bus or by flying into Santa Barbara Municipal Airport or Los Angeles International Airport. For travel and accommodation information and to request a free copy of the official Santa Barbara County Visitors Magazine, contact Visit Santa Barbara at 800.676.1266, 805.966.9222, tourism@santabarbaraca.com or SantaBarbaraCA.com. Visitor information is also available at the Visitor Center, 1 Garden Street (at Cabrillo Boulevard).