Welcome to Santa Barbara
The beauty of this picturesque coastal city known as, “The American Riviera,” is legendary, and visitors from all over the world come for a chance to engage with this dynamic tourism hotspot.
Brilliant wildflowers bloom in the verdant lengths of land bordering the golden beaches of Santa Barbara, a stunning city backdropped by the commanding outline of the Santa Ynez Mountains. The town’s aesthetic is heavily influenced by its Spanish colonial history, reflected in its idyllic Downtown which boasts pristine stucco builds and a signature Mediterranean, island atmosphere.
The elegance of Santa Barbara’s attractive layout is elevated by the city’s urban flair, which turns the town into a multifaceted bounty of visual appeal and enviable commercial offerings. Founded in 1786, this centuries-old oasis has a longstanding reputation as a premier retreat. Modern-day Santa Barbara is known for its high-profile visitors and homeowners, among which are internationally recognized celebrities.
The residential real estate market of Santa Barbara endeavors ceaselessly to provide remarkable properties up to par with the city’s enchanting scenery, and by every standard, the market more than delivers. Multimillion-dollar estates are the norm in Santa Barbara, but no matter what price point homes come with, they each offer a sense of refinement. Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean complement grandeur and architectural designs which are in harmony with the town’s Spanish style.
What to Love
- A mixture of ocean and mountain complete with surrounding parkland
- Low-key foodie destination with niche designer shops
- The rich history that enhances an old-world charm
Local Lifestyle
The residents of Santa Barbara are all about soaking in life’s splendors, from browsing upscale boutique shops to taking a sunset stroll along the town’s famous waterfront boardwalk, Steams Wharf. Distant islands and salt-scented breezes are the harbingers of a tropical, relaxed lifestyle, where escaping into nature is just as easy as diving into incredible social activities.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
State Street Downtown is the shopping and social epicenter of Santa Barbara, and the district’s heartbeat is La Arcada Plaza. Among the arbored sidewalks and red-tiled roofs, the white stucco venues wrapped in leafy green vines, visitors will encounter an impressive array of boutiques, independent shops, and award-winning restaurants.
There’s enough exquisite dining in Santa Barbara that it’s nearly impossible to mention every must-try. Among some of the most noteworthy establishments, bouchon Santa Barbara stands out for its intimate dining experience highlighted by a menu of delectable California fare and the region's best wines. Further out from Downtown, Brophy Brothers is a seafood haven with a trendy vibe and epic vistas of both ocean and mountain.
Step into the luxury of Hotel California to experience the delights of the Margerum Wine Company’s Tasting Room, which offers outstanding small plates and snacks with its wine flights and samplers. Head to the coast and visitors will encounter California’s oldest working wharf and Santa Barbara’s iconic seaside destination for fun: Stearns Wharf.
Things to Do
Santa Barbara’s immaculate beauty lends itself easily to entertainment, and it’s a city in which simply taking in the views is an activity in and of itself. Apart from the bustle of The Santa Barbara Pier, Stearns Wharf, there’s also The Santa Barbara Harbor for those looking to traverse a seaside commercial hub. Both locations are wonderful launching points for water activities such as whale watching, sea kayaking, paddle boarding, and scuba diving.
The smaller size of Santa Barbara contributes to its small-town array of exciting local events, including the city’s treasured Old Spanish Days Fiesta. A week-long celebration of the town’s traditions and heritage, this event features authentic Spanish food, music, and dance. Other affairs include the annual Summer Solstice — which starts the season off right with a dazzling parade and tons of live performances — and the Holiday Trolley of Lights Tour, a Christmas-time favorite for viewing the city’s festive displays.
Spellbinding concerts are frequent at Santa Barbara Bowl. As the town’s landmark outdoor amphitheater, Santa Barbara Bowl has hosted top performers such as Hozier, Steely Dan, Van Morrison, and Jimmy Buffet. Those with children will want to check out the beloved Kids World park, a downtown playground staple complete with a castle-style center with slides and other imaginative fixtures.
Schools
Santa Barbara is home to a number of excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
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Washington Elementary School, K-5, highly rated public elementary school ranked the #4 best in the area
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Cate School, 9-12, the #1 ranked best private boarding high school in California