Santa Barbara Gay Scene There is no defined gay neighborhood in Santa Barbara, though there are establishments that are gay-friendly. If you’re looking to get into some hot gay nightlife, consider taking the 90-minute drive south into Los Angeles, where the gay scene really pops off. Find local Singles groups in Santa Barbara, California and meet people who share your interests. Join a group and attend online or in person events.
In general, attitudes towards same sex couples are very liberal in the Canary Islands and many gay and lesbian travellers enjoy a holiday in beautiful Lanzarote. You will experience friendliness and tolerance everywhere you go; everyone is welcome on this sun-kissed island.
Best Places In Santa Barbara
Lanzarote is not renowned for its nightlife scene for gay people, however there is one bar in the lovely resort of Puerto del Carmen in the south-east. Please remember though, all bars, whether they are gay or straight, have an open-minded attitude when it comes to sexuality.
Lanzarote is filled with stunning beaches with many beautiful coves and pristine waters. There are some areas that attract naturists, including some of the smaller beaches in Papagayo, close to Playa Blanca. Here you will find several small bays and coves, namely Playa del Papagayo (the largest), Playa Mujeres and Playa de Puerto Muelas. There is also the purpose-built naturist resort of Charco del Palo (near Mala village on the northeast coast) with restaurants and bars, shops and private beach facilities.
Given the reputation it has as conservative and affluent, Santa Barbara surprisingly has a sizable LGBT community. It is no shock to us though, for this coastal town is a blissful place to live and travel to. There’s always a steady stream of gay visitors especially ready to indulge in decadent Gay Santa Barbara. With beautiful beaches, wineries, and restaurants, Santa Barbara definitely holds its own as a great California vacation destination!
Santa Barbara Wine Country
The Santa Barbara Wine Country emerged from a cluster of celebrities attempting to blaze their trails outside of the Hollywood limelight, and winemakers attempting to break free from the notorious shadow of Napa Valley. What began as a region full of upstart wineries that each developed their own cult followings has emerged into the abundant reputation of Santa Barbara’s Wine Country. Now, there are over 21,000 acres of land dedicated to growing grapes for wine in Santa Barbara as well as neighboring valleys of Santa Ynez and Santa Maria. The majority of the regions’ wineries remain family owned and operated, which contributes to the handcrafted aesthetic this wine country is known for. For an ass-kicking Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, or Cabernets, look no further than Santa Barbara.
Great things to do in Gay Santa Barbara, by day or by night!
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The overall gay presence in Santa Barbara has expanded in recent years. The dyke scene specifically is known as a comfortable balance of Northern California’s granola-and-Birkenstock types and southern California’s chic club-goers. There are no exclusively-gay bars or clubs in this beach town though, so most members of the gay community are simply normal people living life in one of the most charming coastal towns of California.
The integrity of the architecture and landscaping is a consistent strength of Santa Barbara. Gracious sandy beaches fringe the city’s southern coastline, with sailboats bobbing in the Marina and rugged mountains forming a northern backdrop. Some of our favorite Santa Barbara hotspots are the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Both of these offer visitors access to the exquisite natural beauty this city is known for. Other great places to visit are El Presidio de Santa Barbara and Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park. For a great way to stay active and soak up the beautiful Santa Barbara atmosphere, these options are the way to go.
The climate in Santa Barbara often graciously compared to the Mediterranean- it is even referred to as the “American Riviera.” It is indeed balmy, and has the glamour of an idyllic yet exclusive beach enclave. Year-round, the climate is extraordinarily conducive to happiness—320 days of sunshine, low humidity and cool breezes. As is often the case in heavenly lands, the old guard here claims that Santa Barbara has become increasingly “discovered” and somewhat less appealing. While this may be true to a degree, the city still looks green, clean and quite striking without feeling tourist-ridden or over-developed. The beautiful climate in Santa Barbara makes this an incredible beach getaway; Padaro Beach is the hottest spot for gays so be sure to check it out!
Cool Places In Santa Barbara
Downtown, Santa Barbara travelers experience a healthy art scene amidst the Mission-style red-tiled adobes that house many exceptional restaurants. There are plenty of places to eat around town though, regardless of what your favorite flavor is! China Pavilion, Cajun Kitchen, and Flavors of India offer awesome ethnic options. Brophy Brothers and Bouchon are two excellent options that will leave you planning your next trip back to Santa Barbara!
Highlight Event: Pacific Pride Festival
The LGBT residents have come together to produce the Pacific Pride Festival to celebrate their lives. It attracts people from all the way down in Los Angeles to come up and enjoy the laid-back lifestyle that is synonymous with Santa Barbara. At the Pacific Pride Festival, Enjoy an all day line up of live entertainment, vendors, food booths, and activities. This event features including the 1st Annual 'Put Your Paws Up' dog show. This year's performing headliners include 70's disco queen Thelma Houston and Drag Star Chad Michaels, as well as talented local performers and DJ's. This event is not to be missed!
Ready to plan your Santa Barbara vacation? Check out our Gay-Travel-approved Santa Barbara accommodations!
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