Where the Pacific coast is south facing, and the valleys are sheltered by the Santa Ynez mountains, one finds the elite ocean-facing communities of Summerland, Montecito, Goleta, and  Santa Barbara – this is the American Riviera, writes Andrew Forbes.

Eat
Tyger Tyger

Found in Santa Barbara?s on-trend arts district, the ?Funk Zone?, Tyger Tyger is the place to go for Asian cuisine inspired by the street food of Thailand and Vietnam. Chef Palaima?s menu is great for sharing!
Tydes, at the Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club
Beside the Four Seasons Resort the Biltmore Santa Barbara is this vintage beach club. I just loved the style! It beautifully captured in my mind at least a bygone age of California cool.

The restaurant Tydes is superb; elegant, relaxed and friendly with great service and delicious food from the team of Executive Chef Marco Fossati.
 Fish & Chips BrophyBros
To enjoy great seafood in authentic surroundings by the harbour, I recommend the fish and chips overlooking Santa Barbara?s harbour at Brophy Bros., a favourite with locals and visitors for seafood, beers and cocktails.

The Dining Room at the El Encanto
The Dining Room is so elegant at El Encanto. However I love eaing on the terrace – splendid views to the Pacific, and a menu that offers the best of California?s Earth and Ocean.

Do
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Santa Barbara is renowned for its beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. The publis courthouse is a a supe...