With a variety of styles and shops to explore, along with the amazing climate and stunning scenery, Santa Barbara is the perfect coastal destination for Mother’s Day. In this blog, we’ll give you some great tips on how to get the most out of your shopping spree in Santa Barbara on her special getaway!
Known as the heart of the shopping experience in Santa Barbara, State Street is always at the top of your list. This beautiful palm-lined thoroughfare offers a ton of great options, from artisan boutiques to brands you’ve known forever. To better accommodate the foot traffic, a whopping 7 blocks of State Street are closed to vehicle traffic and make for a beautiful shopping stroll. No matter what you have in mind, you can find it here or in one of the many adjacent shopping areas. It’s such a great mix of everything from well-known premier brands all the way down to the most unique local shops. You can spend an entire day here!
La Arcada Plaza is another amazing area adjacent to State Street. With its Spanish architecture and famous “turtle fountain”, this one is a joy to stroll through. You’ll find upscale shopping amidst the centuries-old bronze sculptures and local galleries. *HINT: be sure to check out Barbieri & Kempe for some amazing wines!
Sevilla Square is another great State Street shopping area, featuring merchants that include local owners, great food and drink, day spas, and gift shops.
After a day (or two) of exploring the State Street area, we’re off to the Funk Zone. Located near the waterfront, this vibrant and eclectic neighborhood is known for its artsy vibes and hip shops. Once a former industrial area, old warehouses and factories have been lovingly transformed into a mix of boutique shops, art galleries, craft breweries, wineries, and more.
Looking to take in the salty air and seascapes while you browse? Then run over to Stearns Wharf to check out their souvenir and gift shops, sweet treats, clothing stores and more. Plus, you’ll find some of the best views in the area.
Santa Barbara is home to hundreds of interesting and amazing retail locations, but the well-known locally-owned boutiques and unique shops are really what make for great memories. Here are some of our favorites:
- Diani Boutique: a great local brand that embodies soulful beauty and authenticity in their clothing, home goods, and accessories.
- Loveworn: one of the largest and most unique collections of vintage denim in the country. Custom, unique, and this place definitely has a vibe.
- Dylan Star Clothing Boutique: located in the Funk Zone, this is a shopping “experience”. A unique boutique dedicated to making shopping fun again!
- Bungalow West: Vintage style. Timeless elegance. From clothing to home goods, and more.
- Celadon House: home décor and furnishings that transform your indoor and outdoor areas into functional and appealing living environments.
- Wendy Foster: bringing the styles from all over the globe to their six locations in Santa Barbara County. Unique styles that offer something for everyone.
And here are a few other hidden local gems that are worth experiencing: Angel Montecito, Warbler Records, Arbor Collective, Riviera Towel Company, Whiskey & Leather, and the Lovebird Boutique & Jewelry Bar.
As Mom wraps up her coastal shopping spree, she’ll carry with her not only the shopping haul, but also the joy of spending quality time with loved ones in this sunny, culture-rich destination. And after a long day of retail therapy, she can unwind in style in one of the many incredible luxury vacation rentals from Haller Coastal Homes!
