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things to do in santa barbara

SUMMER 2025 IN SANTA BARBARA

Santa Barbara is the ultimate summer escape, complete with pristine beaches and many local events occurring all summer long. From vibrant festivals to relaxing movie nights under the stars, use this curated collection of events and activities to help you craft your perfect Santa Barbara vacation.

Summer Solstice Celebration | June 20 – June 22

Kick off summer at the 51st annual Summer Solstice Celebration at Alameda Park. Enjoy vibrant displays of artwork, costumes, performances and more.

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JAWS at 50! | April 25 – May 4

Experience the thrill of JAWS like never before as the Academy Festival Orchestra, led by conductor Ben Palmer, brings the iconic film to life in celebration of its 50th anniversary at the Granada Theatre.

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Santa Barbara Wine + Food Festival | June 28

Support the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History’s education programs at the Santa Barbara Wine + Food Festival®! Sip on 100+ of the Central Coast’s best wines whilst surrounded by the oak woodland along Mission Creek.

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Santa Barbara Lavender Festival | June 28

This arts and crafts festival encourages local lavender farms and small businesses to incorporate lavender into as many of their products as possible!

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Concerts in the Park | Weekly in July

Bring your picnic blankets, snacks, and friends to enjoy free live music at Chase Palm Park. Find a list of dates and performers below.

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Concerts at the Santa Barbara Bowl | All Throughout Summer

Catch live performances from artists like Rebelution, Iration, Darius Rucker, Maren Morris, Goo Goo Dolls, Mt. Joy, Mac Demarco, and more at the beloved Santa Barbara Bowl.

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French Wave Film Festival | July 11 – 17

Enjoy the showcase of eleven new films from notable French filmmakers at the Riviera Theatre! Purchase individual passes or a Patron Pass below.

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Free Summer Cinema | Weekly on Fridays

Pack a blanket and some snacks and enjoy free movies under the stars at the Santa Barbara Courthouse. This year’s theme is “Dog Days of Summer” and will feature feel-good films that include our favorite canine stars.

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California Beachside Wine Festival | July 19

Sip and savor your way through hundreds of wines and crafts brews at this beachside wine festival held along Santa Barbara’s Waterfront. Enjoy tons of artisanal cheeses, chocolates and more, all while taking in the ocean breeze and the sounds of live music. Photo from California Wine Festival.

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Old Spanish Days Fiesta | July 30 – August 5

Every August, Santa Barbara bursts to life with Old Spanish Days Fiesta, a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and culture that dates back to 1925. The five-day event kicks off with La Fiesta Pequeña on the steps of the Old Mission, featuring colorful flamenco and folklorico performances.

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Best In Show | August 24

This beloved Montecito tradition held at the Rosewood invites you to compete with your four-legged friend for the title of best in show. Enjoy an afternoon of local treats, shopping, and friendly competition, all in support of Santa Barbara Humane and Love Leo Rescue.

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Find a complete list of all Santa Barbara summer events here.

THE SANTA BARBARA FATHER’S DAY EDIT

Fatherhood isn’t one-size-fits-all – some dads are up at dawn packing lunches and planning family vacations. Others are building businesses, barbecuing like pros, or quietly holding it all together from behind the scenes. However they show up, this Father’s Day is a chance to show the father figures in your life they’re seen with a day that matches their energy, celebrates their impact, and speaks their language.

The Adventurer Dad

He’s the one who’s always up for something, whether it’s hiking a new trail or cold plunging in the ocean before coffee. He’s never met a mountain he didn’t want to climb or a wave he didn’t try to catch. He’s the one planning the next outdoor experience before you even finish the last one.

Paddle Board West Beach

Day Trip to the Channel Islands

Kayak the Coast

Hike to Seven Falls or Inspiration Point

Bike Along the Coast on Shoreline Drive or Cabrillo Blvd

Ride Horseback Along Summerland Beach

The Thoughtful Dad

This dad listens more than he speaks. He gives advice that sticks and remembers the details. He’s your first call when you need clarity or calm.

Coffee and Conversations at Dart at the Harbor

Morning Stroll at Douglas Family Preserve

Farmers Market and Cooking Class with Pascale’s Kitchen

Shop and Stroll Coast Village Road

Take a Scenic Drive Along Highway 1

The Cultured Dad

Art, wine, and music are his languages. He finds joy wandering galleries, savoring tasting rooms, or hunting for treasures in vintage shops. With a palate for small-batch whiskey, a collection of jazz vinyl, and an appreciation for Spanish Colonial architecture, his perfect day unfolds with a quiet morning at a museum followed by a curated tasting flight.

Browse The Santa Barbara Museum of Art or Natural History

Day Trip to Solvang

Wine Taste in Santa Ynez or Los Olivos

Stroll The Funk Zone For Art Galleries and Vintage Stores

Take an Architectural Walking Tour Through Downtown Santa Barbara

The Fixer Dad

He can build a deck, fix the sink, and troubleshoot anything. But what really makes him special is how much he wants to help.

Find a Gift at Ace Rivington or Civilianaire Clothing

Lunch on the Santa Barbara Pier

Browse Santa Barbara’s Maker’s Market

Treat Him to a Spa Day at San Ysidro Ranch or the Rosewood

DIY Crafts at Home

The Hands-On Dad

Coaching soccer, tying tiny shoelaces, running bedtime stories on repeat. He’s fully present always – and loving it.

Spend the Day at The Santa Barbara Zoo

Explore Tide Pools at Hendry’s Beach

Paint Ceramics at Clay Studio

Picnic at the Old Mission Rose Gardens

Visit the Sea Center on Stearns Wharf

The Boujee Dad

He’s got an eye for the finer things and no shame about it. This dad knows his single malt from his small-batch, and he prefers his cocktails smoked and served with a view. He’s all about quality, not quantity.

Play a Round of Golf at Sandpiper

Charter a Sail Boat for the Day or a Sunset Cruise

Make Dinner Reservations at San Ysidro Ranch’s Stonehouse or Lucky’s Steakhouse

Book Him a Spa Appointment

Wine Taste in Santa Ynez

This Father’s Day, whether you’re honoring the dad who raised you, the father figure who shaped you, or the partner who shows up for your family every day. In Santa Barbara, we believe in celebrating life’s best moments with style, intention, and sunshine.

Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Celebration 2025: What to Expect and Best Places To Stay

While it might feel like summer to you, it’s not really summer until the summer solstice in late June, which usually falls somewhere between June 20 to 22. It’s a dazzling day of the year because it’s the day with the most daylight possible. In Santa Barbara, that means up to 15 hours of golden sunlight to enjoy the coast, festivities, and outdoor living. Some places, such as the North Pole, experience the “midnight sun,” where the sun never sets.

Take full advantage of this extra stunning daylight and start summer off in style in Santa Barbara—California’s coastal gem known for its natural beauty, artistic spirit, and laid-back charm. It’s not just a summer destination, it’s the perfect place to truly start summer. The city hosts an annual Summer Solstice Celebration with a parade, festival, live music, and more. 

Because people love the celebration and the warm summer weather, this time of year, vacation rentals tend to fill up quickly. Don’t wait—book directly with Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals to secure a beautiful place to stay near all the action and plenty of other exciting things to do. We offer excellent vacation rentals for small and large groups, located near the Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Celebration.

A float at the Summer Solstice parade in Santa Barbara.

What Is The Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Celebration?

Santa Barbara hosts a summer celebration that encompasses a wide range of entertainment near the summer solstice. Each year, the event features a unique theme that inspires floats, costumes, and installations. You can expect to see a parade, festival, live music, lots of extravagant costumes, an artist’s workshop, food vendors, and more.

What Are The Best Things To Do At The Summer Solstice Celebration?

Even though these are the longest days of the year, it can be hard to experience everything that happens at the Summer Solstice Celebration. However, we have some suggestions for how to make the most of your time in the (extra) sunlight. 

Find the family fun: If you’re bringing your family to Santa Barbara, you’ll find a variety of fun, family-friendly activities at the celebration. Visit the FUNTopia Interactive Art Play Ground. As the name suggests, there is a lot of hands-on art from local and regional artists. There is also a stage with live music that is appropriate for children. This playful area is designed for creativity, interaction, and imagination—perfect for young festival-goers and families.

Study the parade route: The parade is one of the most popular events during the celebration. It begins at noon on Saturday, but you’ll want to arrive early to secure a good spot to watch the event. The route begins at Santa Barbara Street and ends at the Solstice Festival in Alameda Park on Sola Street. Be sure to check the event website for the most up-to-date map and timing information, as crowds can build quickly. 

Know the theme: Each year, the celebration picks a theme for the event. For 2025, the theme is “Wild World.” You can either go all out and dress in bright, colorful animal patterns, wear your favorite wild print, or ignore the theme and people-watch.

Either way, expect an explosion of color, creativity, and artistic expression throughout the weekend. Additionally, you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and, because of the extra sunlight, be sure to find some shade as well.

A float at the Summer Solstice parade in Santa Barbara.

End Your Nights Here

When the sun sets after the extra-long day, you’ll be glad to have a place to stay in Santa Barbara that is close to the solstice events and close enough to the sea to feel the cool breeze in the evenings. Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals offers centrally located homes and properties close to the city’s attractions. These featured properties offer not only comfort and charm but also convenient access to the festival’s key locations.

Casa Colibri del Mar (4-minute drive to Alameda Park): A wonderful place for couples or a small group of friends is the Casa Colibri del Mar. This rental is suitable for long-term stays (minimum 30 nights), offering two bedrooms and three bathrooms for up to four people. Enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and city skyline from this private hillside retreat. In addition, you have easy access to Santa Barbara’s most cherished landmarks.

Santa Barbara Hideaway (11-minute drive to Alameda Park): The Santa Barbara Hideaway is an ideal venue for large gatherings. It can accommodate up to 10 people and it is also pet-friendly. You will find five bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms. 

This luxury home features two spacious primary suites, a Peloton bike, a built-in espresso machine, and an open-concept living space that’s perfect for entertaining. Located just minutes from the beach and a short ride from the festival, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and convenience.

Santa Barbara Retreat (11-minute drive to Alameda Park): This vacation rental is ideal for families, including pets (pet-friendly rental). There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms, which are cozy for up to five people. It’s located in the highly sought-after Mesa Neighborhood– which is moments from the beach, shopping, and dining. 

Unwind after the festival in the beautifully landscaped backyard featuring a spa, fire pit, and multiple lounging areas. The Santa Barbara Retreat offers a peaceful atmosphere while keeping you close to all the Solstice action.

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals That Shine

Not only will these vacation rentals give you easy access to the festival and Santa Barbara attractions, but they also provide a place to recharge, so you’re ready to enjoy more of the extra daylight on the summer solstice. 

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals offers comfortable, charming, and fully furnished vacation rentals that provide a true home-away-from-home experience. Each property is conveniently close to all that Santa Barbara has to offer. Ready to make the most of your Summer Solstice weekend? Book your stay today before properties fill up.

Visit our website or call 805-617-0438 to speak with our friendly team and reserve the ideal rental for your Santa Barbara escape.

SANTA BARBARA STAYCATION

With beautiful weather and a laid-back atmosphere, Santa Barbara sets the perfect backdrop for a relaxing “staycation” or summer gathering. Whether you’re planning a casual alfresco dinner party or just want to unwind in a serene backyard setting, these vacation rentals offer the ideal outdoor space for making the most of warm, sunny days at home.

Above It All

6 Guests | 3 Beds | 3 Bath

Above It All offers the ideal blend of luxury, privacy, and unforgettable views. Perched above Santa Barbara on a serene hilltop, this architectural gem invites you to unwind in style. Start your day with coffee overlooking the Pacific, host sunset cocktails by the fire pit, or fire up the grill for an alfresco dinner. With a private pool, hot tub, and panoramic vistas, this home delivers the perfect setting for relaxed days and memorable summer evenings.

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Beachfront Bungalow

5 Guests | 2 Beds | 2 Bath

Embrace laid-back luxury at the charming Beachfront Bungalow on Miramar Beach, an ideal escape for a summer staycation. With private balconies overlooking the ocean, a chef-ready galley-kitchen for beachside meals, and direct access to the sand, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the outdoors without ever leaving home. Grill up a feast, lounge by the waves, or simply soak in the sun and salty air.

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Casa Colibrí Del Mar

4 Guests | 2 Beds | 3 Bath

Casa Colibrí Del Mar is the kind of place where summer days feel easy and effortless. Start your morning sipping coffee in the garden, then fire up the built-in grill for lunch with a view that stretches all the way to the Pacific. Whether you’re lounging on the patio, enjoying dinner at the outdoor dining table, or sipping wine by the outdoor fireplace, this hillside hideaway is perfect for relaxing outdoors and making the most of warm, sunny days.

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Cielitomar

8 Guests | 4 Beds | 3 Bath

Cielitomar is the perfect place for a laid-back yet lively summer escape. Spend the day by the pool, unwind in the hot tub, or challenge friends and family to a game of bocce ball in the beautifully landscaped backyard. With a dining area nestled under the shade of ancient oak trees, it’s an ideal setting for long, leisurely meals with a view. This private Montecito retreat offers the perfect blend of comfort and style for outdoor living at its finest.

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Mesa Beach Escape

6 Guests | 4 Beds | 2 Bath

Mesa Beach Escape is the perfect spot for a relaxed summer getaway at home. Lounge in the spacious backyard, unwind in the hot tub, or enjoy the ocean breeze with a drink in hand. Just a short walk to the beach, you can catch some sun or grab a bite at the Boathouse at Hendry’s, one of Santa Barbara’s favorite oceanfront spots. If you’re lounging in the backyard or simply soaking up the peaceful vibe of the Mesa neighborhood, this home offers a laid-back and charming setting for enjoying summer.

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Mesa Sanctuary

6 Guests | 4 Beds | 2.5 Bath

At Mesa Sanctuary, summer days feel effortlessly special. The backyard is a true retreat, offering a peaceful space to relax in the hot tub or lounge with family and friends. With plenty of seating and a beautifully landscaped setting, it’s easy to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. The home’s proximity to Leadbetter Beach and Shoreline Park makes it simple to take a stroll by the ocean or watch the sunset.

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Montecito Oaks

8 Guests | 4 Beds | 4 Bath

Montecito Oaks is a luxe setting for a relaxing summer escape. With two stunning outdoor spaces, you can enjoy grilling in fully equipped outdoor kitchens, unwind by one of the fire pits, or take in expansive ocean views from the upper deck tucked among the trees. A private redwood hot tub, tranquil water features, and lush landscaping create an inviting atmosphere for laid-back days and serene evenings. The lower patio offers a peaceful retreat, while the upper deck is perfect for hosting friends and family.

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Santa Barbara Retreat

8 Guests | 4 Beds | 4 Bath

With a spacious backyard featuring a fire pit, spa, and ample seating, Santa Barbara Retreat is ideal for grilling, enjoying evening cocktails, or simply unwinding under the stars. The open layout of the home ensures a seamless flow between the chef-ready kitchen, dining area, and living spaces, making outdoor meals and gatherings effortless. This retreat provides a stylish and serene coastal setting, perfect for relaxing and enjoying time outdoors.

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Sweet Spot of Montecito

6 Guests | 3 Beds | 2 Bath

The Sweet Spot of Montecito is the perfect setting for a day immersed in coastal charm and serene luxury. With its spacious, orchard-lined backyard and multiple outdoor living areas, this home offers plenty of room for grilling, lounging, and enjoying quality time with family and friends. Whether you’re cooking up a delicious meal in the retro-chic kitchen, sipping wine by the fire pit, or unwinding on the patio under the stars, this retreat provides the ideal backdrop for a memorable summer gathering.

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The Cottage at Miramar

5 Guests | 3 Beds | 2 Bath

This historic beach cottage offers an unbeatable spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy the ocean breeze. With the beach just outside your door and a deck perfect for soaking up the sun, you can spend the day savoring the salty air and sounds of the waves. Whether you’re grilling, having a casual beach picnic, or watching the sunset from the deck, this coastal gem provides the ultimate setting for a laid-back and memorable getaway. Plus, a short stroll takes you to the luxurious Rosewood Miramar Resort for a little extra pampering.

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FREE ACTIVITIES IN SANTA BARBARA

From miles of pristine coastline to rolling hills and vibrant city streets, Santa Barbara offers a wealth of free activities for every kind of traveler. Use this curated guide to make the most of your stay wallet-free.

Arts & Culture

Santa Barbara is a vibrant city that values its local art scene, as well as its Spanish heritage. All around the city you can find art galleries, architectural feats, culturally significant sites, and modern murals. Here is a quick list to help you track down some notable sites.

Historical Sites

Downtown you can find the famous Santa Barbara Courthouse, known for is stunning Spanish exterior and sunken gardens. Enjoy a free, self-guided tour throughout the building and its grounds, and even climb up to the top of the bell tower for amazing 360 degree views of the city and ocean below. Not far from the Courthouse, is the El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park. Established in 1782, this site is a Spanish-built fort that gives visitors the chance to relive history. Further down the road on State and Victoria you can find a statue of Native American heroine Sacagawea. The Old Mission Santa Barbara is free to visit, and so are the rose gardens across the street.

Art Museums & Exhibits

On Thursdays from 5pm to 8pm you can enjoy free admission to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art where you can find collections of both modern and classic art. At the Santa Barbara Public Library you can find the latest local art exhibits on display. Every Sunday you can stroll along the beachfront walkway on Cabrillo Blvd and discover local handmade arts and crafts at the Arts & Crafts Show, and at the Taste Maker’s Market you can explore a gourmet pop-up market. Another market to check out is the Mujeres Makers Market, a monthly pop-up market that supports women of color vendors.

While you’re downtown, check out a prominent piece of art called the Chromatic Gate on the corner of Cabrillo Blvd near East Beach. These brightly-colored arches are set against the backdrop for the Pacific and make for a good photo-op. To see vibrant arts and murals, take a stroll through the Funk Zone, a hub for eclectic arts and businesses.

Architecture Tours

If architecture and history is your thing, you’ll want to take the historic Red Tile Walking Tour, a self-guided tour throughout historic downtown. The Jeff Shelton walking tour is a shorter, colorful tour that takes you to 5 iconic locations designed by the architect. Stearns Wharf is another great place to stroll and take in some of the best views of the city. Near State street on De La Guerra is El Paseo, or “street in Spain” where you can window shop and imagine you’re in a different place.

Outdoor Activities

Beaches

There are many beaches in Santa Barbara county to choose to spend your day at. Whether you seek an afternoon of sunbathing, a stroll along the shore, or a refreshing swim, all of these beaches are perfect for day well spent. Goleta Beach, Leadbetter Beach, and Devereux Beach are great for walking and exploring tide pools. Thousand Steps Beach and Mesa Lane Beach are both local secrets, while East Beach, Butterfly Beach, Arroyo Burro, and Summerland Beach are more popular and family friendly.

Surfing

If you brought your surf board, check out some of Santa Barbara’s well-known surf spots. For beginners try out Leadbetter Point off Cabrillo Blvd, and for more advanced surfers check out Sands Beach in Goleta, Hammond’s Reef in Summerland, or Rincon Point in Carpinteria. Find a comprehensive list of surf spots here.

Trails

Santa Barbara is full of trails that allow you to take it the beauty of the city from different perspectives. You can bike ride mountainous trails with stunning vistas, stroll along the boulevard to look out for wildlife, or even drive through the lush Santa Ynez mountains. We recommend leisurely rides along Cabrillo Blvd or Channel Drive, but you can find a list of Santa Barbara’s most popular biking trails here. Lots of locals recommend hiking as a must-do activity in Santa Barbara. Our favorite trails are Inspiration Point, Hot Springs Trail, and Romero Canyon. Here is a list of some more popular hikes in the area.

If you want a more relaxing experience, take a scenic drive to the Chumash archaeological site Painted Caves, cruise down Shoreline Drive along the coast, take in views of the coast on E Camino Cielo, or road trip through Foxen Canyon Road to experience the beauty of the Santa Barbara wine country.

Parks & Gardens

The Rose Garden at the Old Mission is one of the most popular gardens to visit and have an afternoon picnic. On the Riviera, Alameda Park has a Kids World Park for children play and climb, while Franceschi Park and Parma Park are large grassy areas with trails to explore. The Santa Barbara Orchid Estate has over 100 varieties of orchids to enjoy, Butterfly Grove in Goleta is popular for its monarch butterflies, and from June to July Clairmont Lavender Farm is in bloom. Enjoy a day trip to the Lompoc Flower Fields when they’re in bloom in the summer. For more recommendations of parks and gardens read our blog here.

Find more free activities here.

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