Coastal California in Santa Barbara

I was recently involved in a wonderful gathering just outside Santa Barbara called the Photo Field Trip. Over 300 photographers and creatives came together for an amazing time at El Capitan Canyon campground, where we stayed in tents, yurts, and cabins. The campground was just a short bike ride from the beach, where we were able to find endless surfers and picturesque rocky shores.

While it rained during our photo conference, I was fortunate enough to have booked a few extra (sunny) days in Santa Barbara to explore the area. A friend suggested a few roads with local spots and I thoroughly enjoyed her recommendations. I also took the opportunity to explore the ranches and mountains in the surrounding Santa Barbara area. I even chased the sunshine to the top of a mountain to witness a stunning sunset from above the city.

My last day in town was spent wandering historic downtown Santa Barbara. I ended up at the beach where I walked the pier and met some of the kindest people. The day was so completely relaxing and just what I needed. I then ventured up to San Ysidro Ranch, a place that had been on my “dying-to-see list” for a little over a year. The iconic lavender field was worth a thousand words and somehow was even more than I imagined! My first trip to Santa Barbara definitely didn’t disappoint and I cannot wait to return to this beautiful place to continue exploring all it has to offer.

El Capitan Canyon Campground
11560 Calle Real,
Goleta, CA 93117
+1 866-352-2729

Hotel Indigo
121 State St,
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
+1 805-966-6586

Sawyer Baird is a Fine Art wedding photographer capturing her photographs with film.