WHERE TO NEXT?By Chrissy Gray, Event Planner
I love camping – late nights around the bonfire roasting smores, hiking through the wilderness, days without a real shower – but when my friends suggested going glamping for the weekend in Santa Barbara, I was totally game. I’d heard the term “glamping” thrown around before but I had yet to experience it for myself. I have to say, glamorous camping is pretty awesome!
Just past Santa Barbara on Highway 1 is El Capitan Canyon, a picturesque collection of log cabins and tents nestled in a valley across from the Pacific Ocean. During our weekend trip, we stayed in a secluded tent next to a small creek that ran through the resort. Inside the tent we had a bed, two chairs, a nightstand, and even electricity. So yes, we weren’t exactly roughing it, but with the beautiful scenery and private fire pits for your favorite camping activities, it definitely didn’t feel like the Four Seasons.
El Capitan Canyon has dozens of tents and cabins to choose from , so whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic weekend of seclusion, or you’re traveling with a large group, there’s a perfect spot for you. Around the area enjoy beautiful hiking trails, horseback riding, and the beach literally across the street. We chose to spend our Saturday at Refugio State Beach where I finally learned how to surf! The small waves that day made it perfect for the beginner, but advanced surfers looked like they were having a great time too. That evening we decided to take a drive into wine country for dinner at the Ballard Inn, a world renowned restaurant with dishes made with some of the freshest, local and organic ingredients I’ve ever had. (FYI: The Watercress Soup is to die for!) With a bottle of Pinot Noir bottled just around the corner from the Inn, our glamping adventure was definitely complete.
