Santa Barbara Highlights Private 2-Hour Driving Tour

Santa Barbara’s rich history and stunning natural beauty come alive on this private 2-hour driving tour. Led by renowned guide Laure Spiers, the journey showcases iconic landmarks like the County Courthouse and Old Mission, while also exploring vibrant neighborhoods and picturesque coastal spots. With flexible transportation and the ability to customize your experience using the Pintours app, this tour promises an immersive and unforgettable glimpse into the heart of this California gem. But the real question is, what secrets might this tour unveil about the city’s past and present?

This experience made our article of Top 3 2 Hour Tours In Santa Barbara.

Key Points

• A private 2-hour driving tour of Santa Barbara led by renowned guide Laure Spiers, covering iconic landmarks like the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and Old Mission.
• Customizable tour experience using the Pintours app, which allows control of narration and timing at each stop, with free navigation and smartphone guide.
• Flexible transportation options including private luxury driver, unlimited Uber pass, rental car, or self-drive, catering to guests’ preferences and budget.
• Explore the Funk Zone neighborhood and Montecito, with a scenic stop at East Beach featuring palm trees and volleyball courts.
• Visit the Spanish Colonial Revival-style Santa Barbara County Courthouse, with its impressive 85-foot clock tower and ornate interiors, and the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara.

Tour Overview

This private 2-hour driving tour of Santa Barbara takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Led by renowned guide Laure Spiers, the tour covers must-see locations like the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Old Mission, and the artsy Funk Zone neighborhood.

Guests can discover local wineries, galleries, shops, and restaurants in the Funk Zone, as well as visit the celebrity enclave of Montecito.

Discover boutique wineries, art galleries, and trendy shops in Santa Barbara’s vibrant Funk Zone, as well as the exclusive Montecito neighborhood.

The tour also includes a stop at the scenic East Beach, known for its palm trees, volleyball courts, and mellow waves.

Tour Features and Technology

The Santa Barbara Private Driving Tour utilizes the Pintours app to provide a customizable and interactive experience for guests. The app allows participants to control the narration and timing at each stop, ensuring they can explore at their own pace.

A free navigation and smartphone guide are included, providing turn-by-turn directions and insights along the way. Confirmation is received at booking, and the tour is open to service animals.

The tour offers various transportation options, including private luxury cars, Uber passes, car rentals, and self-driving, providing flexibility for guests.

Transportation Options

The Santa Barbara Private Driving Tour offers four transportation options to suit guests’ preferences.

Travelers can opt for a private luxury driver in a premium car, an unlimited Uber pass for rides between stops, a rental car from the tour’s partners, or drive their own vehicle.

The meeting point is at the Old Mission Santa Barbara, while the tour concludes at the Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club.

Guests have the flexibility to choose the transportation that best fits their needs and budget, allowing them to fully enjoy the tour’s highlights.

Santa Barbara County Courthouse

Towering over downtown Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara County Courthouse stands as a magnificent example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Completed in 1929, the courthouse features intricate details and ornate decorations throughout its exterior and interior. Visitors can explore the building’s stunning Sunken Garden, mosaic-tiled floors, and the iconic 85-foot clock tower that offers panoramic views of the city.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Architecture | Spanish Colonial Revival |

| Construction | Completed in 1929 |

| Clock Tower | 85-foot tower with panoramic views |

| Sunken Garden | Lush outdoor courtyard |

| Interiors | Ornate details and mosaic-tiled floors |

The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is a must-see destination on any tour of the city, showcasing the region’s rich history and architectural beauty.

Old Mission Santa Barbara

After exploring the stately Santa Barbara County Courthouse, the private driving tour moves on to the iconic Old Mission Santa Barbara.

Founded in 1786, this Spanish colonial mission features an impressive architecture and rich history. Visitors can admire the mission’s beautiful gardens, intricate facade, and interior chapels.

The tour guide provides insights into the mission’s role in the region’s development and its significance as a California landmark.

The mission’s pivotal role in the region’s history and its status as a revered California landmark are explored by the tour guide.

With its serene ambiance and well-preserved structures, the Old Mission offers a glimpse into Santa Barbara’s past and provides an engaging stop along the private driving tour.

Funk Zone

As the tour departs the historic Old Mission, it arrives at the vibrant Funk Zone.

This lively neighborhood boasts an array of wineries, art galleries, unique shops, and trendy restaurants. Visitors explore the Funk Zone’s urban vibe, sampling local wines, browsing eclectic boutiques, and indulging in tantalizing cuisine.

The tour guide provides insights into the area’s transformation from an industrial district to a hub of creativity and culture. Guests have ample time to wander the pedestrian-friendly streets, taking in the whimsical murals and distinctive architecture that define the Funk Zone’s distinctive character.

Montecito

From the vibrant Funk Zone, the tour ventures to the exclusive enclave of Montecito, a serene coastal community known for its celebrity residents and luxurious estates.

Tour-goers explore the pristine neighborhoods, marveling at the grand mansions and manicured landscapes. Laure shares insights into the area’s history and points out notable properties owned by A-list stars.

Guests have the opportunity to visit the elegant Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club, a private beach club favored by the elite.

The Montecito segment offers a glimpse into the affluent lifestyle of this picturesque California town.

East Beach

The tour then takes visitors to East Beach, a picturesque stretch of coastline known for its palm trees, volleyball courts, and mellow waves.

Guests can stroll along the sand, watch beachgoers play volleyball, or simply relax and take in the serene ocean views.

The beach features convenient amenities like restrooms and outdoor showers, making it an ideal spot to unwind after exploring the Funk Zone.

With its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful natural setting, East Beach offers a quintessential Santa Barbara experience for tour participants.

The Sum Up

Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Santa Barbara on this private driving tour. Explore iconic landmarks, visit charming neighborhoods, and customize your experience using the Pintours app. With flexible transportation options, you’ll enjoy a seamless and tailored journey through this picturesque coastal city.