Santa Barbara is a vibrant shopping destination where local charm meets diverse retail offerings. The city seamlessly blends unique independent boutiques with well-known brands, ensuring there’s something for every style and preference. Exploring its sun-kissed streets, I’m always captivated by the way history and modernity intertwine, making each shopping experience uniquely memorable.
Historic Shopping Districts
Santa Barbara offers a shopping experience like no other, where historic charm meets modern retail. From its vibrant streets filled with local treasures to upscale shopping centers, there's a little something for every shopper. The city's rich cultural atmosphere and striking architecture create a welcoming backdrop for both boutique finds and well-known brands. Whether you’re after unique handcrafted items or contemporary luxury, Santa Barbara’s shopping districts deliver an unforgettable experience.
State Street: The Heart of Santa Barbara’s Shopping Scene
State Street is the main artery of Santa Barbara’s shopping scene. This pedestrian-friendly street is home to an eclectic mix of shops, from high-end retailers to cozy cafes. The lively atmosphere, with its colorful street performers and local art galleries, brings an energy that’s both relaxing and exciting. Historic buildings line the street, adding character and making each storefront feel like a piece of history. Here, I love discovering boutique shops that offer unique, handcrafted goods, many of which can’t be found anywhere else. Whether you're looking for something trendy or timeless, State Street offers the best of both worlds.
Old Town: A Step Back in Time
For a more intimate, nostalgic experience, head to Old Town. This charming area is a hidden gem, offering a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle. The quaint boutiques and specialty stores reflect the area’s deep roots in Santa Barbara’s history. As I wander these streets, I appreciate the personal touch each store has, whether it's an antique shop or a local artisan craft store. Old Town is the place to find unique treasures, and the connections I’ve made with shop owners here have made each visit special.
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Contemporary Shopping with a Local Twist
Santa Barbara also excels in blending modern shopping with its laid-back vibe. Contemporary malls like La Cumbre Plaza offer high-end retail alongside inviting outdoor spaces where you can unwind. This mix of upscale shopping and outdoor leisure creates a relaxed yet stylish shopping experience. For a taste of the local scene, check out the unique boutiques along State Street, such as Chapala & Parker. These shops capture the essence of Santa Barbara’s relaxed elegance while offering one-of-a-kind finds.
Artisan Markets: A Creative Showcase
No trip to Santa Barbara would be complete without visiting its artisan markets. Whether it’s the Santa Barbara Arts and Crafts Show on Cabrillo Boulevard or a pop-up market, these local events are where creativity comes to life. The handcrafted goods, from jewelry to artwork, are all made by local artisans, and the personal connections I’ve made with the creators add an extra layer of authenticity to the experience. These markets are not just about shopping—they offer a rare chance to engage with the makers and experience the city’s artistic heart.
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Paseo Nuevo
Paseo Nuevo isn’t just a shopping center—it’s an open-air experience that perfectly captures the essence of Santa Barbara’s vibrant, laid-back charm. With its unique Spanish-style architecture and pedestrian-friendly design, strolling through Paseo Nuevo feels like walking through a piece of local history, while also offering the convenience of modern shopping.
In addition to a fantastic mix of local boutiques and national retailers, Paseo Nuevo stands out for its community-focused environment. Regularly hosting interactive art installations and cultural events, it’s more than just a place to shop. You can also enjoy local theater productions and art exhibits, enriching your visit with a blend of entertainment and culture. When you need a break, there are plenty of cozy cafes and dining options offering a variety of tastes—whether you're in the mood for a coffee or a sit-down meal.
Price Range: $-$$ (Shops typically range from $15 for small accessories to $200+ for clothing and home goods)
Location: Paseo Nuevo | Website: Visit Website
La Arcada Plaza
La Arcada Plaza offers a peaceful yet sophisticated atmosphere with its iconic Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. It’s a hidden gem in Santa Barbara where you can enjoy boutique shopping and fine dining in a charming courtyard setting, unlike any other shopping area in the city.
As you wander through La Arcada, you’ll find an assortment of high-end boutiques, local art galleries, and distinctive jewelry stores. The shops offer a personalized experience, with many items reflecting the artistry of Santa Barbara’s local designers. The plaza itself is also home to impressive art installations, adding to its allure. A standout feature is the restaurant scene, where you can savor both casual bites and fine dining, all while soaking in the stunning architectural beauty surrounding you. It's a great spot to take your time, explore, and enjoy Santa Barbara’s distinct blend of old-world charm and contemporary flair.
Price Range: $$-$$$ (Jewelry and art pieces can range from $50 to $500+)
Location: La Arcada Plaza | Website: Visit Website
Santa Barbara Plaza
Santa Barbara Plaza is an ideal spot for both locals and visitors, offering a wide range of experiences from casual shopping to dining and even grocery shopping. What sets this plaza apart is its mix of convenience and accessibility—it’s a one-stop destination that’s perfect for an easy afternoon of shopping and dining without feeling rushed.
The plaza features a variety of retail shops, but what truly makes it unique is the option to grab a quick bite, shop for groceries, or even relax at one of the many restaurants, all in one place. It’s a great option if you're looking to stock up on essentials, explore boutique stores, or simply take a break and enjoy some good food in a relaxed environment. Its central location also means you’re just a short distance away from other Santa Barbara attractions, making it an ideal stop on a day out.
Price Range: $-$$ (Snacks and quick bites starting around $5, while boutique items range from $20 to $100)
Location: Santa Barbara Plaza | Website: Visit Website
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La Cumbre Plaza
La Cumbre Plaza is a beautiful shopping hub that’s well worth a visit, with its Mission Revival architecture providing a striking backdrop for a day of shopping and dining. Located in a scenic area between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, it’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern retail offerings.
La Cumbre is home to a wide array of shops, including Macy’s, Pottery Barn, and Talbots, making it a go-to for both luxury and everyday shopping. Whether you're looking for home décor, fashion, or a special gift, the plaza offers a diverse mix of stores to suit all tastes. For dining, you can choose from both quick eats like Chipotle or a more upscale experience at Lure Fish House. Its convenient location and stunning views make it an ideal spot to spend the day shopping and enjoying a relaxing meal in one of the most picturesque areas of Santa Barbara.
Price Range: $$-$$$ (Retail stores like Macy's and Pottery Barn offer a range from $30 for casual items to $200+ for higher-end home goods)
Location: La Cumbre Plaza | Website: Visit Website
Magnolia Shopping Center
The Magnolia Shopping Center in Santa Barbara offers more than just a shopping experience; it’s a vibrant destination that captures the essence of local life. From its lively atmosphere to its carefully curated mix of stores and dining options, it’s the perfect place to spend a day out. Whether you're shopping for the latest fashion trends, enjoying a tasty meal, or simply strolling through its welcoming spaces, Magnolia has something for everyone.
The variety of stores here really impressed me, and the center itself is well-maintained. It’s clean, organized, and easy to navigate, making for a pleasant shopping experience. Plus, there’s a great selection of dining options. From casual bites to hearty meals, the center ensures you’re well-fueled for your shopping spree.
What sets Magnolia apart is its ability to cater to both locals and visitors, with an eclectic range of shops and restaurants that provide a true local flavor. The center’s convenient location also makes it a popular spot for those looking for a quick break or a longer shopping session.
Price Range: Expect to find affordable and mid-range items, with prices starting at approximately $10 (USD) for casual shopping items and going up to $100 (USD) for higher-end electronics.
Location: Magnolia Shopping Center | Website: Visit Website
Five Points Shopping Center
If you're looking for variety and convenience, Five Points Shopping Center in Santa Barbara has it all. This bustling spot brings together a wide range of retailers, from popular eateries like Chipotle and McDonald's to big-box stores like Macy's and CVS. Its blend of shopping, dining, and fitness options makes it a one-stop destination for everything you need, all in a vibrant and easy-to-navigate environment.
What makes this place unique is its comprehensive services. If you're into fitness, there’s a Gold's Gym, which adds an extra layer of convenience to your visit. The mall also includes tech retailers like T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless, ensuring you have access to the latest gadgets.
Its location near key roads makes it easily accessible, and with a detailed aerial map available on their website, navigating the space is straightforward. Whether you're stopping for essentials or looking to browse, Five Points offers something for everyone.
Price Range: Expect casual dining around $7–$15 (USD), with electronics and home goods priced anywhere from $20–$200 (USD).
Location: Five Points Shopping Center | Website: Visit Website
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Milpas Shopping Center
Located in the heart of Santa Barbara, the Milpas Shopping Center is a laid-back spot perfect for casual shopping. With its mix of local businesses and well-known stores, it offers a convenient stop for everyday essentials. The relaxed vibe and ample parking make it easy to pop in and grab what you need, while the nearby eateries offer a great place to unwind after your shopping trip.
Whether you’re after everyday essentials or a quick treat, Milpas delivers. What I enjoyed the most was the relaxing pace here—no rush, just a nice place to stop by and explore the stores. After browsing, you can easily grab a bite at nearby eateries. Its convenience and simplicity make it perfect for those casual shopping days.
While the center may not be as flashy as some others, Milpas stands out for its welcoming vibe and the ability to cater to everyday needs in a peaceful, low-key environment.
Price Range: Expect affordable prices with many items ranging from $5 (USD) for snacks to $50 (USD) for fashion items.
Location: Milpas Shopping Center
Loreto Plaza
For a relaxed and charming shopping experience, Loreto Plaza in Santa Barbara is a must-visit. This quaint plaza is a lovely spot to explore, offering a delightful mix of boutique shops and cozy dining options. With its friendly atmosphere and beautiful coastal backdrop, Loreto Plaza is perfect for those looking to enjoy a peaceful day of shopping, eating, and simply soaking in the local charm.
The variety of stores here caters to different tastes, whether you're looking for unique gifts, clothing, or a satisfying meal. The charming layout, with its well-maintained streets and friendly vibe, makes it a pleasant place to visit. I love how the plaza maintains its quaint charm while offering modern amenities.
An added bonus is the stress-free parking and clean environment, which enhance the overall experience. Loreto Plaza is a gem where you can easily shop, dine, and unwind without the hustle and bustle found at larger centers.
Price Range: Prices here range from $10–$50 (USD) for casual shopping, with dining options averaging around $10–$30 (USD) per meal.
Location: Loreto Plaza
Arlington Plaza
Arlington Plaza is a hidden gem in Santa Barbara, offering a refreshing shopping experience right in the heart of the city on vibrant State Street. Whether you're a local or just visiting, it’s an excellent spot for a relaxed afternoon of exploring. The plaza offers a thoughtfully curated selection of boutiques, each with unique finds—from fashion to home décor, making it a destination for all tastes.
What truly sets Arlington Plaza apart is its blend of modern architecture with Santa Barbara's traditional charm. The beautiful landscaping and clean, well-maintained grounds create a welcoming environment, making it an enjoyable place to wander. It’s easy to see why this location is a favorite among locals who want to escape the more crowded spots.
Dining here is also a treat. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or sitting down for a full meal, the range of dining options caters to different moods and cravings. Plus, the plaza’s location on State Street makes it an easily accessible stop for anyone, with ample street parking and easy connections to nearby attractions.
Price Range: Shopping here is affordable, with most items ranging from $10 to $75. For example, clothing items in the boutiques start around $25, and specialty items can go up to $150.
Location: 1324 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 | Website: Visit Arlington Plaza
Mesa Shopping Center
Located in a prime spot, Mesa Shopping Center offers a diverse and welcoming shopping environment in Santa Barbara. With a perfect blend of retail stores and dining options, this is a place where you can take your time shopping, grab a bite, and simply unwind. Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee or a sit-down meal, the center has options to cater to all tastes.
Mesa Shopping Center is unique for its spacious layout and ease of access. There’s plenty of parking available, making it convenient for shoppers to stop by without any hassle. The center is not only clean and well-maintained, but the overall atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it a great choice for families and casual visitors.
What truly stands out about Mesa is its accessibility. Located just minutes from local residential areas, it’s a central hub for both everyday shopping and quick errands. From fashion to grocery stores, you'll find a variety of shops that ensure a complete experience. Plus, the strategic location on the Mesa ensures that it’s always easy to drop by for whatever you need.
Price Range: Expect to find a mix of budget-friendly and mid-range options. For example, casual wear in the clothing stores starts from $20, while a meal at one of the dining spots may cost around $10 to $30 per person.
Location: Tour Mesa Shopping Center
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Frequently Asked Questions
Santa Barbara offers a diverse shopping experience, with its blend of luxury destinations, unique boutiques, and well-rounded malls. Whether seeking upscale names or charming local spots, the city has something for every shopper.
1) What are the best times to visit Arlington Plaza and Mesa Shopping Center for a less crowded experience?
If you prefer a quieter shopping experience, it's best to visit Arlington Plaza and Mesa Shopping Center during weekday mornings or early afternoons. Most shoppers tend to visit in the late afternoons and weekends, so arriving earlier in the day allows you to explore the stores and enjoy the ambiance without the crowds.
2) Are there any events or seasonal promotions at these shopping centers?
Both Arlington Plaza and Mesa Shopping Center host various seasonal promotions and occasional community events. Keep an eye on their social media pages or websites for updates on special sales, local events, and festive celebrations that may be taking place, such as holiday pop-up shops or themed market days. These events can enhance your shopping experience with local entertainment and exclusive discounts.
3) Are there any nearby attractions or activities to enjoy after visiting these shopping centers?
Both shopping centers are centrally located, with easy access to local attractions. After visiting Arlington Plaza, take a stroll down to the nearby Santa Barbara Waterfront, where you can enjoy the beach, harbor, or a scenic walk around the pier. For those at Mesa Shopping Center, consider visiting Shoreline Park or exploring nearby hiking trails for a post-shopping outdoor adventure. These spots provide the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Santa Barbara.