Santa Barbara Shopping Tour (Self Guided), Santa Barbara
Shopping in Santa Barbara, California is a serious affair! To those who may take it lightly, one can say (jokingly paraphrasing Oscar Wilde) that it is so shallow of them:) Indeed, from boutique-lined streets to charming courtyards, this coastal city boasts a wide retail spectrum, spanning from world-class stores to a multitude of local crafts shops fit to please even the most discerning and meticulous consumers.
Wonderful outdoor paseos, shadowed plazas, and long brick sidewalks make shopping in Santa Barbara the most enjoyable way to spend your free time. Let's take a stroll through some of the notable spots and see what they are.
State Street is the bustling heart of Santa Barbara's shopping scene. Stretching from the beach to the foothills, it's a vibrant mix of high-end retailers, unique boutiques, and delightful eateries. Paseo Nuevo, an outdoor shopping center nestled along State Street, is a prime spot for fashion enthusiasts, featuring popular brands and local boutiques.
For those seeking art and culture, the La Arcada Historic Courtyard is a hidden gem. This charming enclave houses art galleries, boutiques, and cafes, making it the perfect place to explore Santa Barbara's creative side. Bella Rosa Galleries, located in this courtyard, showcases a stunning collection of fine art and jewelry that's sure to captivate art aficionados.
Arlington Plaza is another shopping destination worth exploring. It's a chic retail district where you can find upscale boutiques, offering everything from fashion to home decor. And don't forget Santa Barbara Cigar and Tobacco, where cigar enthusiasts can indulge in a wide selection of cigars and accessories.
If you have a sweet tooth, Chocolate Maya is a must-visit. This artisanal chocolate shop slightly off State Street offers delectable handmade chocolates and truffles that are simply irresistible.
So, wait no more! Come and explore the retailing delights Santa Barbara has to offer, and let the shopping adventures begin!
Wonderful outdoor paseos, shadowed plazas, and long brick sidewalks make shopping in Santa Barbara the most enjoyable way to spend your free time. Let's take a stroll through some of the notable spots and see what they are.
State Street is the bustling heart of Santa Barbara's shopping scene. Stretching from the beach to the foothills, it's a vibrant mix of high-end retailers, unique boutiques, and delightful eateries. Paseo Nuevo, an outdoor shopping center nestled along State Street, is a prime spot for fashion enthusiasts, featuring popular brands and local boutiques.
For those seeking art and culture, the La Arcada Historic Courtyard is a hidden gem. This charming enclave houses art galleries, boutiques, and cafes, making it the perfect place to explore Santa Barbara's creative side. Bella Rosa Galleries, located in this courtyard, showcases a stunning collection of fine art and jewelry that's sure to captivate art aficionados.
Arlington Plaza is another shopping destination worth exploring. It's a chic retail district where you can find upscale boutiques, offering everything from fashion to home decor. And don't forget Santa Barbara Cigar and Tobacco, where cigar enthusiasts can indulge in a wide selection of cigars and accessories.
If you have a sweet tooth, Chocolate Maya is a must-visit. This artisanal chocolate shop slightly off State Street offers delectable handmade chocolates and truffles that are simply irresistible.
So, wait no more! Come and explore the retailing delights Santa Barbara has to offer, and let the shopping adventures begin!
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Santa Barbara Shopping Tour Map
Guide Name: Santa Barbara Shopping Tour
Guide Location: USA » Santa Barbara (See other walking tours in Santa Barbara)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles
Author: HollyZ
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Santa Barbara (See other walking tours in Santa Barbara)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles
Author: HollyZ
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Arlington Plaza
- Bella Rosa Galleries
- La Arcada Historic Courtyard
- Paseo Nuevo
- State Street
- Chocolate Maya
1) Arlington Plaza
Arlington Plaza presents a compact yet varied collection of retail, dining, and cultural offerings, arranged around landscaped walkways and shaded outdoor seating. Its storefronts include locally owned destinations such as DIANI Boutique, DIANI Shoes, and DIANI Living, offering fashion, home goods, and design objects with a distinctive regional aesthetic. The plaza also features The Travel Store and Marisa Mason Jewelry, offering handcrafted accessories and unique gifts, while Blossom Salon contributes a personal care option to the overall mix.
Several dining spots anchor the plaza's atmosphere of casual gathering. Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro serves French-inspired breakfast and lunch fare, while Carlitos Café y Cantina provides Mexican cuisine with patio seating that faces the plaza’s interior. The restaurant’s patio often features live music that complements the plaza’s steady rhythm.
Several dining spots anchor the plaza's atmosphere of casual gathering. Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro serves French-inspired breakfast and lunch fare, while Carlitos Café y Cantina provides Mexican cuisine with patio seating that faces the plaza’s interior. The restaurant’s patio often features live music that complements the plaza’s steady rhythm.
2) Bella Rosa Galleries
Bella Rosa Galleries offers a distinctive blend of art and luxury retail, centered on a selective collection of estate, vintage, and antique jewelry. Inside, glass cases display rare colored diamonds, natural gemstones, and one-of-a-kind pieces that span eras and regions. The gallery emphasizes mined stones and handcrafted detail, with particular attention to items that carry historical significance or cultural artistry.
In addition to showcasing finished pieces, the gallery offers full appraisal services and extensive expertise in valuation, making it a resource for collectors and sellers alike. Jewelry, watches, coins, and gold are actively bought, sold, or accepted on consignment, creating a dynamic inventory shaped by both new acquisitions and reimagined heirlooms. Custom design services are also available, allowing clients to transform older items into modern, wearable forms while preserving their original essence.
In addition to showcasing finished pieces, the gallery offers full appraisal services and extensive expertise in valuation, making it a resource for collectors and sellers alike. Jewelry, watches, coins, and gold are actively bought, sold, or accepted on consignment, creating a dynamic inventory shaped by both new acquisitions and reimagined heirlooms. Custom design services are also available, allowing clients to transform older items into modern, wearable forms while preserving their original essence.
3) La Arcada Historic Courtyard
La Arcada Historic Courtyard is a captivating blend of art, shopping, dining, and historical charm. Established in 1926 in the Spanish Revival style, the space is designed for leisurely exploration. Visitors can enjoy tile-lined walkways, fountains, and sculptures that enhance the peaceful atmosphere. The iconic clock tower, inspired by a famous Chicago clock, stands out as one of the courtyard's key architectural highlights. Along with these, visitors can admire realistic statues, including playful bronze dolphins and a turtle fountain, perfect for snapping photos and interacting with the art.
The courtyard offers a diverse range of shopping options. Boutiques feature unique clothing, jewelry, home decor, and art, with local galleries showcasing paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts by both established and emerging artists. For something out of the ordinary, the historic barbershop displays antique equipment, adding a quirky touch to your visit.
After some time spent browsing and exploring, a meal at one of the nearby eateries becomes a well-earned pleasure—perhaps Danish pastries from Andersen’s Bakery or the distinctive blend of French and Ethiopian flavors at Petit Valentien. The area also offers a variety of other dining choices, from California cuisine to Italian dishes and decadent French chocolate, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every taste.
The courtyard offers a diverse range of shopping options. Boutiques feature unique clothing, jewelry, home decor, and art, with local galleries showcasing paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts by both established and emerging artists. For something out of the ordinary, the historic barbershop displays antique equipment, adding a quirky touch to your visit.
After some time spent browsing and exploring, a meal at one of the nearby eateries becomes a well-earned pleasure—perhaps Danish pastries from Andersen’s Bakery or the distinctive blend of French and Ethiopian flavors at Petit Valentien. The area also offers a variety of other dining choices, from California cuisine to Italian dishes and decadent French chocolate, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every taste.
4) Paseo Nuevo (must see)
Paseo Nuevo is where history meets a shopping spree, blending old-world charm with a modern twist. Opened in 1990, this open-air center is draped in Spanish Colonial Revival style, making you feel like you’re wandering through a vintage postcard. With 458,000 square feet of space and pedestrian-friendly paths, it’s easy to wander, browse, and pretend you’re in a shopping dream. Over 50 stores—including the likes of Sephora, Victoria’s Secret, and American Eagle—sit alongside local treasures like Angie’s Boutique and Maker's Market. In short, it’s a retail wonderland.
But hold onto your shopping bags—there’s more than just retail therapy here. Grab a quick bite at California Pizza Kitchen or indulge in gourmet burgers at Eureka! Your taste buds will be just as entertained. If you're a sweet tooth, Le Macaron’s French pastries, Oak Berry’s acai bowls, and Pressed Juicery’s fresh juice will keep you happily snacking. For those who crave culture with their shopping, the Museum of Contemporary Art is just upstairs, and the center hosts outdoor markets and kids’ activities to keep everyone entertained.
Come to think of it, Paseo Nuevo isn’t just a place to shop—it’s where shopping, dining, and culture blend seamlessly in the best way possible. Nestled in the historic Paseo de la Guerra complex (yep, it’s on the National Register of Historic Places), it’s got more history than your high school textbook and more fun than you can shake a shopping bag at. You’re guaranteed an experience that’s anything but run-of-the-mill—prepare for something truly remarkable!
But hold onto your shopping bags—there’s more than just retail therapy here. Grab a quick bite at California Pizza Kitchen or indulge in gourmet burgers at Eureka! Your taste buds will be just as entertained. If you're a sweet tooth, Le Macaron’s French pastries, Oak Berry’s acai bowls, and Pressed Juicery’s fresh juice will keep you happily snacking. For those who crave culture with their shopping, the Museum of Contemporary Art is just upstairs, and the center hosts outdoor markets and kids’ activities to keep everyone entertained.
Come to think of it, Paseo Nuevo isn’t just a place to shop—it’s where shopping, dining, and culture blend seamlessly in the best way possible. Nestled in the historic Paseo de la Guerra complex (yep, it’s on the National Register of Historic Places), it’s got more history than your high school textbook and more fun than you can shake a shopping bag at. You’re guaranteed an experience that’s anything but run-of-the-mill—prepare for something truly remarkable!
5) State Street
State Street is where history, shopping, dining, and entertainment come together like the perfect playlist. As you stroll, you’ll encounter a quirky mix of architecture—from Spanish Colonial Revival to Mission-inspired buildings—each with its own distinct charm. If you're in the mood for one-of-a-kind finds at local boutiques or indulging in classics like Apple, Levi’s, and Old Navy, there’s something to feed every shopping urge.
But hold up—this street’s got more than just retail indulgence. From cozy cafes to gourmet hot spots, the dining options here are as varied as your tastes. Fancy a quick snack? Or maybe a five-star feast? Whatever you’re craving, State Street’s got you covered. And if you’re looking to feed your soul instead, it doubles as a cultural hotspot, with live music, street festivals, and places like the Granada Theatre and local galleries. And for the kids, it’s a treasure trove of family-friendly activities—crafts, entertainment, and old-school fun.
With its blend of shopping, dining, and soaking in the local scene, State Street is by far more than just a street—it’s an experience. Regardless of whether it's a bit of shopping escapism, a tasty bite, or just a spot to kick back that you're after, this place has it all. It’s the kind of area you wouldn’t want to leave—so come for the shopping, stick around for the rest...
But hold up—this street’s got more than just retail indulgence. From cozy cafes to gourmet hot spots, the dining options here are as varied as your tastes. Fancy a quick snack? Or maybe a five-star feast? Whatever you’re craving, State Street’s got you covered. And if you’re looking to feed your soul instead, it doubles as a cultural hotspot, with live music, street festivals, and places like the Granada Theatre and local galleries. And for the kids, it’s a treasure trove of family-friendly activities—crafts, entertainment, and old-school fun.
With its blend of shopping, dining, and soaking in the local scene, State Street is by far more than just a street—it’s an experience. Regardless of whether it's a bit of shopping escapism, a tasty bite, or just a spot to kick back that you're after, this place has it all. It’s the kind of area you wouldn’t want to leave—so come for the shopping, stick around for the rest...
6) Chocolate Maya
Chocolate Maya is an artisan chocolate shop devoted to handcrafted creations made from heirloom cacao and fresh, often local, ingredients. Inside, the display cases are filled with truffles, bonbons, and bars—each made in-house with precision and a clear sense of flavor experimentation. European chocolate-making techniques are blended with American innovation, resulting in offerings that range from familiar combinations to bold, seasonal infusions using herbs, spices, fruits, or liquors sourced from the Santa Barbara Farmers Market.
The shop also functions as a working bean-to-bar workshop, where couverture is developed from scratch, and each batch reflects a commitment to quality without artificial additives or preservatives. Alongside the confections, the store features spicy and traditional chocolate drinks, a variety of organic options, and selections made with natural ingredients for those seeking minimally processed treats. The collection includes items suited for gifts, including customizable shapes, logos, and flavors.
The shop also functions as a working bean-to-bar workshop, where couverture is developed from scratch, and each batch reflects a commitment to quality without artificial additives or preservatives. Alongside the confections, the store features spicy and traditional chocolate drinks, a variety of organic options, and selections made with natural ingredients for those seeking minimally processed treats. The collection includes items suited for gifts, including customizable shapes, logos, and flavors.
Walking Tours in Santa Barbara, California
Create Your Own Walk in Santa Barbara
Creating your own self-guided walk in Santa Barbara is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
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A popular weekend location and coastal city, Santa Barbara, has some of Southern California's top locations. Originating as a Spanish mission in 1782 and incorporated as a city in the state of California in 1850, the city enjoys great popularity for its beaches and beautiful architecture.
This city's name comes from the original Spanish mission's name, and the mission property... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
This city's name comes from the original Spanish mission's name, and the mission property... view more
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Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
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Ranking as one of the most attractive places on earth, if only in terms of climate and geography alone, Santa Barbara boasts a wealth of historic architecture tastefully and seamlessly accommodated into the city's modern-day incarnation. To a first-time visitor to Santa Barbara, even the most cursory observation reveals the predominant role that these historic locations play in the identity... view more
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Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
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Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
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