This was a very brief Valentine’s Day weekend overnight trip to Santa Barbara. This city has long been like a little weekend getaway spot for us, but tried to capitalize on the fact that we were in the middle of California’s historically rainiest month. Thus, we had attempted to visit a couple of waterfalls that we’d normally not take the trouble to do.

We normally don’t do overnight trips locally, but for a day like Valentine’s Day, I guess you make exceptions every once in a while.

Here’s a brief summary of what we managed to do on this trip…

Jump down to:  Trip Highlights ♦ Travel Itinerary

Nojoqui Falls – This waterfall was worth a stop as we visited Solvang since they were practically neighbors. Typical of the limestone type waterfalls in Central and Southern California’s coast, the rains that preceded our visit definitely made this place feel like how the California Coast can be when it’s healthy.

Tangerine Falls – This felt like a Santa Barbara locals’ waterfall, and I suspect it was that way because it wasn’t easy to hike and scramble up to. However, not only was this waterfall impressive, but the view looking back towards the Pacific was also memorable. And it was a reminder of how Nature in the Santa Barbara area can be when left alone.

The beach at Carpinteria – On our way home, we stopped by this state beach where the clearing weather combined with minimal crowds made for a pleasant stroll and picnic while enjoying the best of California’s coastal scenery…

Day 1: Drive from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Overnight: Best Western Carpinteria (Carpinteria, California, USA)

Even though this was a driving day (and it rained pretty hard en route), we still were able to visit Nojoqui Falls then visit Solvang afterwards.

Day 2: Return Home

On this day, we got an early start and hiked up to Tangerine Falls before hanging out and having lunch at Carpinteria Beach. Then, we made the drive home.