MONTECITO'S THE HONOR BAR

Nothing makes me happier than a daycation to Montecito (Santa Barbara), and The Honor Bar (from Hillstone) is a favorite spot for lunch. It's a small setting with a small menu (which is always a good sign).

The Macho Salad (chicken, avocado, almonds, dates, goat cheese, corn) and Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri. Toddler hand not included. 

Some great chairs to lounge in while having something refreshing to drink.

Really a pleasant setting to get you into that daycation state of mind.

SANTA BARBARA PUBLIC MARKET

Need a place to take Dad for Father's Day? How about the Santa Barbara Public Market?! It's a great place for lunch. I recommend the Bangkok Street Noodle soup from Empty Bowl or a burger and Spicy Fried Broccolini from Belcampo Meat Co.

And for dessert, the BEST ice cream in Santa Barbara from Rori's Artisanal Creamery. Dad's favorite is a double scoop of Serious Dark Chocolate and John Martin (coconut ice cream with coconut shreds and chocolate) -- yum! 

Here are a few more of my favorite purveyors from the market.

No better gift for Dad than some French salami, right? These guys are from Culture Counter.

Or a nice bottle of wine from Wine + Beer.

And then I always like to get a little grocery shopping done at Foragers Pantry before I leave.

CARPINTERIA SEAL SANCTUARY

The Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary is an easy day trip from Los Angeles. But you really only need an hour there. So if you're on your way to Santa Barbara, it makes for a good stop to get out and stretch your legs.

It's home to almost 100 adult seals who give birth to their cubs on the Carpinteria shoreline. 

The sanctuary is a protected birthing habitat for harbor seals [from December] through May every year. 

The winding trail leads down to a beautiful coastal view.

Lots of room for running.

The trail goes for miles along the bluffs -- offering great views overlooking the ocean. 

This way!

There they are, the mommies and babies. The Sanctuary recommends bringing binoculars, and you can see why. The beach is closed so this is the closest you're gonna get. 

Taking it all in. [Mila's dress is by Nellystella.]