On the surface, Santa Barbara, California, and Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, may seem like two completely different places, each with its own charm; however, these cities are united by a special bond: they have been Sister Cities since 1973.
This relationship has not only strengthened their cultural ties, but has fostered an exchange that goes beyond the paradisiacal beaches and the hospitality of their inhabitants. From twin sculptures to shared festivals, there are many reasons to discover these two destinations.
A historical bond
Puerto Vallarta was chosen as a sister city for its comparable characteristics to Santa Barbara, such as population, commerce and tourism; however, the true strength of this designation lies in its people-to-people exchange programs and the direct ties that are generated between the participating cities.
The connection was made official in June 1973 thanks to the efforts of then-councilman Richard Hidalgo and other citizens committed to strengthening the friendship between both localities. Since then, the relationship has evolved into a dynamic exchange program encompassing art, education, commerce, and philanthropy.
One of the most representative symbols of this brotherhood is the iconic Dolphin Fountain, designed by artist Bud Bottoms. In 1987, Santa Barbara donated a version of this sculpture to Puerto Vallarta, which today adorns the Malecón. In turn, Santa Barbara installed the sculpture El niño sobre el caballo de mar (The Boy on the Seahorse) in its Port, (commonly known as “El Caballito”) in homage to the famous Vallarta piece made by artist Rafael Zamarripa. The statue includes the legend: “For a friendship without borders.”
Places that connect
To enjoy the essence of these sister cities, there are iconic places that should not be missing from your itinerary.
In Santa Barbara, Stearns Wharf is a historic pier with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean that resembles Vallarta’s iconic boardwalk where you can enjoy public art, sculptures and a vibrant energy.
The Presidio of Santa Barbara State Historic Park is a historic site that shows the city’s colonial origins while the Santa Barbara Mission is a testament to the Franciscan heritage in California. Vallarta’s religious legacy is of course palpable at the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which began construction in 1903 around an existing chapel and continued throughout the 1920s. Its official opening date was October 12, 1921, celebrated annually with a mass.
Cobblestone streets, art galleries and restaurants with fresh seafood make Vallarta’s Romantic Zone another must-see, while in Santa Barbara, the car-free State Street has its own charm with shopping spots like Paseo Nuevo or La Arcada Plaza, delicious bakeries like The Andersen’s and restaurants like Olio Bottega, with Italian specialties; or Bouchon, focused on local ingredients, where you must try dishes like onion soup, wild mushroom ragout and maple-glazed duck breast, all designed to pair with local wines.
Another experience that encapsulates the essence of Santa Barbara is the Belmond El Encanto hotel, located in the hills, allowing for spectacular views of the Pacific —the same sea that unites Santa Barbara with Puerto Vallarta— and which personifies the hospitality and charm that both cities share.
Opened in 1918 and frequented by Hollywood stars such as Clark Gable, it boasts architecture that blends Spanish colonial and Californian artisanal styles, restored to offer luxury and comfort. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, its surroundings evoke the tropical charm of Vallarta, while its infinity pool will make you dream of both coastal cities.
Exchanges that enrich
Beyond tourism, the relationship between Santa Barbara and Puerto Vallarta has fostered educational, artistic and humanitarian exchanges, strengthening ties between both communities. Students, artists and doctors have participated in collaborative programs that have left a significant impact. Since the 1970s, for example, medical brigades have traveled from California to Jalisco to perform free eye surgeries in needy communities.
In the cultural sphere, this link is reflected in the constant exchange of artists and festivals, allowing both Americans and Mexicans to enjoy the cultural richness of their sister city. In this way, it is common to see creators from Puerto Vallarta exhibiting in Santa Barbara and vice versa, consolidating an artistic dialogue without borders.
As for festivals, the I Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival, held every May at the Old Mission Santa Barbara, is a pavement art festival that inspired Puerto Vallarta to hold its own version in the Main Plaza: the Madonnari Festival.
Without a doubt, both cities share a warm spirit, a love for art and a passion for the good life. Whether walking along the Malecón at sunset in Puerto Vallarta, exploring the Pacific Ocean from any of its coasts or strolling among the vineyards of Santa Barbara, the experience in both latitudes is complementary and deeply enriching.
Source: milenio
