Last weekend I kidnapped my beautiful mother and took her to Santa Barbara for her birthday! ;) My best friend (Ruby) and moms best friend (Lisa) surprised her with a fun girls getaway to celebrate the big….umm never mind… for her birthday! The four of us piled in my car and road tripped along the coast. We laughed, did funny accents, talked about babies and giving birth (ahhh) and shared stories of past Santa Barbara experiences.  

Once we got into downtown SB we stopped for lunch at The Lucky Penny on Anacapa St. We walked around town exploring the local shops and came upon the most amazing 3 story vintage and modern store called The Blue Door. It featured art from local artists and some of the best rustic furniture. I debated on making a few big purchases and telling the girls to hitch a ride home! JK JK… But really, I plan on going back when I’m ready to refurnish my house. We made a few more stops and then made our way to our hotel.

WHERE WE STAYED: The Goodland, a Kipton hotel

Before I go into detail I must say this.. I had absolutely no idea what to expect when we arrived. I procrastinated finding a hotel and of course 2 weeks before the trip I was crazy enough to think I was going to find a good deal…not only did I find a deal.. It turned out to be the cutest little boho spot around (Im a sucker for that bohemian decor so naturally I wanted to move right in.)
We checked in and were welcomed by the hotel dog Maggie!

 The concierge informed us there was a complimentary wine hour and palm reading in the Airstream…so of course we signed up for both! (The Goodland also has events like trivia night, yoga by the pool and live DJs, just to name a few). After we checked out the room we explored the grounds. By the pool: infused water, sunblock and after sun lotion, grass area with hula hoops and corn hole, 4 fire pits, 2 bars, an amazing restaurant, an event space, a pool table, an indoor fireplace and a record room (the lobby and the rooms have record players).

OUR EVENING: 
After the free wine and the palm reading we got dolled up and went into town for dinner, drinks and of course dancing. We ate Thai food downtown on State St. and made our way to the first dancing spot, The Wildcat Lounge. We stopped at a few clubs and ended the night at a pub named The James Joyce. They have live music and some nights Karaoke. The night as expected was both hilarious and entertaining to say the least. 

OUR RECOVERY DAY:

The next morning we lounged by the pool, did some yoga and eventually wandered into the Good Bar for complimentary organic fair trade coffee. (I’m a bit of a coffee snob and this coffee made my day) They even had almond milk out ready to serve! 

We enjoyed an outside brunch at Outpost and then made our way into town. We strolled through the farmers market and went to The French Press for our afternoon brew. 

Although our stay was short, it was certainly sweet. The Goodland was an unexpected delight and I’m already looking forward to our next trip! Until next time!

<3, Jules