The American Riviera, known for its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking mountain views, Santa Barbara is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and wide range of outdoor activities, Santa Barbara has something to offer for everyone. When it comes to choosing where to stay, the city has numerous neighborhoods that cater to different tastes and preferences.
From the luxurious and upscale to the laid-back and bohemian, each neighborhood in Santa Barbara has its unique character and charm. For those looking to experience the city like a local, there are several neighborhoods that are worth considering. Here’s a rundown of 10+ Santa Barbara neighborhoods to stay like a local:
1. Downtown Santa Barbara
Downtown Santa Barbara is the heart of the city, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s the perfect place to stay for those who want to be in the midst of all the action. With its historic architecture, beautiful parks, and vibrant nightlife, Downtown Santa Barbara has something for everyone.
One of the highlights of Downtown Santa Barbara is the famous State Street, which is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can also explore the historic Santa Barbara Mission, which is one of the oldest buildings in California.
2. Montecito
Montecito is an upscale neighborhood located just east of Downtown Santa Barbara. It’s known for its luxurious estates, beautiful parks, and stunning ocean views. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Montecito is the perfect place to stay for those looking for a relaxing and luxurious getaway.
| Neighborhood | Description |
|---|---|
| Montecito | Luxurious estates, beautiful parks, and stunning ocean views |
| Downtown Santa Barbara | Historic architecture, shops, restaurants, and entertainment options |
3. Santa Barbara Mission
The Santa Barbara Mission neighborhood is located near the historic mission and is known for its beautiful architecture, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants. It’s a charming neighborhood that’s perfect for those who want to experience the rich history and culture of Santa Barbara.
The Santa Barbara Mission is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, and the surrounding neighborhood is filled with charm and character. Visitors can explore the mission, walk through the beautiful gardens, and enjoy the local cuisine.
4. Hope Ranch
Hope Ranch is a beautiful neighborhood located in the southwestern part of the city. It’s known for its stunning ocean views, beautiful parks, and luxurious homes. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Hope Ranch is the perfect place to stay for those looking for a relaxing and luxurious getaway.
Getting to Hope Ranch
- From Downtown Santa Barbara, take the 101 freeway south
- Exit at La Cumbre Road and turn left
- Continue on La Cumbre Road for approximately 2 miles
- Turn right onto Hope Ranch Road and enter the neighborhood
5. Upper East
The Upper East neighborhood is located just north of Downtown Santa Barbara and is known for its beautiful architecture, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants. It’s a charming neighborhood that’s perfect for those who want to experience the rich history and culture of Santa Barbara.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Upper East
Pros:
- Beautiful architecture and charming atmosphere
- Quaint shops and delicious restaurants
- Close proximity to Downtown Santa Barbara
Cons:
- Can be noisy due to its proximity to Downtown
- Parking can be limited
6. San Roque
San Roque is a neighborhood located in the northeastern part of the city and is known for its beautiful parks, delicious restaurants, and vibrant community events. It’s a family-friendly neighborhood that’s perfect for those who want to experience the local culture and lifestyle.
What are some popular activities to do in San Roque?
+Some popular activities to do in San Roque include hiking at the nearby San Roque Trail, visiting the Santa Barbara Mission, and attending the neighborhood's community events.
7. Mesa
The Mesa neighborhood is located in the southwestern part of the city and is known for its stunning ocean views, beautiful parks, and delicious restaurants. It’s a charming neighborhood that’s perfect for those who want to experience the local lifestyle and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
8. Riviera
The Riviera neighborhood is located in the northeastern part of the city and is known for its stunning views of the city and the ocean. It’s a luxurious neighborhood that’s perfect for those who want to experience the high-end lifestyle and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
9. Samarkand
Samarkand is a neighborhood located in the eastern part of the city and is known for its beautiful architecture, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants. It’s a charming neighborhood that’s perfect for those who want to experience the local culture and lifestyle.
10. Goleta
Goleta is a neighborhood located just north of Santa Barbara and is known for its beautiful parks, delicious restaurants, and vibrant community events. It’s a family-friendly neighborhood that’s perfect for those who want to experience the local lifestyle and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
11. Noleta
Noleta is a neighborhood located in the western part of the city and is known for its stunning ocean views, beautiful parks, and delicious restaurants. It’s a charming neighborhood that’s perfect for those who want to experience the local lifestyle and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
In conclusion, Santa Barbara has numerous neighborhoods that cater to different tastes and preferences. From the luxurious and upscale to the laid-back and bohemian, each neighborhood has its unique character and charm. By considering these 10+ neighborhoods, visitors can choose the perfect place to stay and experience the city like a local.
When choosing a neighborhood to stay in Santa Barbara, consider factors such as proximity to Downtown, access to outdoor activities, and the local lifestyle and culture. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Santa Barbara has something to offer for everyone.
