Make the Most of Summer in SB!
Whether you’re soaking in the sun at the beach, watching a movie beneath the stars or dancing at Fiesta, summer in Santa Barbara is all about enjoying the outdoors and embracing the laid-back coastal lifestyle.
Festivals and Celebrations
Lively Summer Solstice
One of Santa Barbara’s most beloved traditions, the Summer Solstice Parade & Festival transforms downtown into a colorful celebration of art, music, and creativity. The free three-day festival includes live entertainment, food vendors, local artists, and the famous people-powered parade.
Celebrate Old Spanish Days Fiesta
Every August, Santa Barbara comes alive with Fiesta, a week-long celebration of the city’s Spanish, Mexican, and Californian heritage. Expect colorful costumes, dancing, live music, parades, mercados, and festive energy throughout town. It’s one of the most iconic events of the summer.
Pacific Pride Festival
Santa Barbara proudly celebrates its LGBTQ+ community each August with the Pacific Pride Festival at Chase Palm Park. This free, all-ages waterfront event features live music, entertainment, local vendors, food trucks, community organizations, and a vibrant atmosphere that welcomes visitors and locals alike. It’s one of the Central Coast’s signature summer celebrations.
** A fun note for visitors: Santa Barbara is somewhat unique in that its official Pride celebration is held in August rather than June, giving summer travelers another major festival to enjoy alongside Fiesta and the Summer Solstice festivities.
Seasonal Community Offerings
Movies Under the Stars at the Santa Barbara Courthouse
Bring a blanket and enjoy free outdoor movies at the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Garden. The annual Summer Cinema series put on by UCSB’s Arts & Lectures has a different theme each year and runs on Friday evenings throughout July and August, creating one of the most memorable ways to spend a summer night in town.
Don’t Miss State Street
State Street’s pedestrian friendly promenade is the heart of downtown summer activity. Stroll local shops, enjoy live music, rent bikes, and take advantage of outdoor patios and people-watching. First Thursday celebrations, weekly farmers markets, and pop-up events often add extra energy to the area as well!
Where to Soak Up The Sun & Rent The Gear!
Hike to Ocean Views
Santa Barbara’s mountain backdrop creates some of California’s most rewarding coastal hikes.
Top choices: Inspiration Point, Rattlesnake Canyon, & Cold Springs Trail
Cal Coast Adventures
From scenic bike tours and surf lessons to kayaking, paddle boarding, and beach rentals, this local outfitter offers some of the area’s best guided outdoor adventures. (Direct booking link provided for our VROSB guests!)
Top Beaches to Visit
With miles of stunning coastline, Santa Barbara offers a variety of beaches to explore, each with its own character and appeal, making it easy to find your favorite spot to relax & play!
Outdoor Gear & Beach Rentals
BabyQuip: Outdoor family and pet essentials, including wagons, tables, chairs, umbrellas, beach toys, bluetooth speakers and more!
Buoy Water Club: Self service beach rentals and recreation equipment at Leadbetter Beach.
Cal Coast Adventures: Recreation beach equipment including kayaks, stand up paddle boards, wet suits, bikes & e-bike rentals
Other Useful Summer Tips
Ride the Downtown Waterfront Shuttle
Getting around is easy with the Downtown-Waterfront Shuttle, which connects downtown, the harbor, the waterfront, the train station, the zoo, and other popular destinations. Service operates throughout the summer, making it simple to explore without worrying about parking.
Best Outdoor Dining Spots
- Brophy Bros (Team Favorite!): waterfront seafood and harbor views
- The Lark: lively patio dining in the Funk Zone
- Loquita (Team Favorite!): Spanish-inspired cuisine and beautiful outdoor seating
- Oku: oceanfront sushi and rooftop views
- Carlitos Cafe & Cantina: A SB classic offering big-plate Mexican food, delicious cocktails & ample patio seating.