March is undeniably one of the most picture-perfect times to visit Santa Barbara with its countless vibrant displays of color found everywhere on our crescent coast, including everything from wildflowers sprinkled on hillsides to sunsets of every hue. Add temperate weather, incredible music performances and a variety of unique local festivals, there’s no shortage of reasons to visit this spring.

March in Santa Barbara means it’s time to take advantage of the myriad outdoor adventures our coastal enclave has to offer. March 20 is the official first day of spring, so celebrate the coming of the new season by getting out in nature with a stroll through Santa Barbara Botanic Garden or Lotusland or a guided tour through the Funk Zone, waterfront or old town Santa Barbara withh Santa Barbara Free Walking Tours.

Another draw to the California coast during March is the prime whale watching. Every year between February and May, Pacific gray whales migrate from the warm waters of Baja California, through the wildlife-rich Santa Barbara Channel, and then to the chilled Alaskan coast, making it one of the longest and most incredible migrations of any mammal. With plenty of on-the-water outfitters for those who prefer an adventurous, full day of powerboating, Condor Express Whale Watching offers wildlife excursions year-round while Celebration Cruises taps into the limited whale watching season. Sun Swept Sailing, Santa Barbara Sailing Center and Sunset Kidd Sailing offer more laid-back, intimate experiences in wildlife viewing aboard sailboats.

Whether you need a solo springtime reset and refresh, or plan to bring the whole family for a week of relaxation, consider Santa Barbara your activity-filled, Spring Break destination. 

Check it all out here.