While most cities are able to take advantage of outdoor dining during the summer months, Santa Barbara’s year-round weather allows for al fresco dining each season. In fact, Santa Barbara’s fall season is one of the most magical times of the year. As the days grow shorter, the coastal city is bathed in a golden light, with temperatures remaining mild and pleasant. Crisp, sunny days followed by cool evenings create the perfect setting for dining outdoors. Whether you’re looking for oceanfront views, garden patios, or cozy courtyards, Santa Barbara offers a wide range of restaurants where you can soak in pleasant sun rays while enjoying a delicious meal.
Here’s our picks of some of the best outdoor dining spots in Santa Barbara:
The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach
Tucked away on the sand at Hendry’s Beach, The Boathouse is an iconic spot for oceanfront dining. Whether you’re grabbing a post-beach brunch or a sunset dinner, the outdoor patio offers panoramic views of the Pacific. Fall’s cooler weather makes it an ideal time to cozy up with a seafood feast and a glass of wine, with the sound of the waves in the background.
Shoreline Beach Café
For a truly beachside experience, Shoreline Beach Café offers outdoor seating right on the sand. This casual spot near Leadbetter Beach allows you to dig your toes into the sand while enjoying fresh fish tacos or a hearty breakfast. The laid-back vibe, combined with the gentle ocean breeze, makes it a perfect place to enjoy Santa Barbara’s fall weather.
Zaytoon
Tucked away in a charming garden setting, Zaytoon offers one of Santa Barbara’s most romantic outdoor dining experiences. This Lebanese restaurant features a lush patio with private, fire-lit tables perfect for a cool fall evening. The fragrant aromas of Mediterranean spices fill the air, complementing the serene surroundings.
Oku
For a dining experience with stunning views of the Santa Barbara coastline, Oku is a must-visit. This contemporary Asian-fusion restaurant offers a rooftop patio with sweeping ocean vistas, making it an ideal spot for a sunset dinner. The sleek design and vibrant dishes add to the upscale yet relaxed ambiance, perfect for a fall evening out.
The Lark
Located in the heart of the Funk Zone, The Lark is a farm-to-table restaurant that celebrates the flavors of California’s Central Coast. The expansive outdoor patio is stylishly rustic, with communal tables and twinkling string lights creating an inviting, lively atmosphere.
Loquita
For an al fresco dining experience with a Spanish flair, head to Loquita. Specializing in authentic Spanish cuisine, this restaurant offers a charming outdoor courtyard that feels like an escape to the Mediterranean. The warm fall evenings in Santa Barbara pair perfectly with the tapas-style dining, where you can enjoy small plates and a glass of sangria under the stars.
Convivo
Situated along the waterfront at the Santa Barbara Inn, Convivo offers stunning ocean views and a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Their large outdoor patio makes it an ideal spot to savor the fall breeze while indulging in dishes that highlight local ingredients and global flavors. The restaurant’s proximity to East Beach also makes it a great spot for a pre- or post-meal stroll.
Stella Mare’s
For a more intimate dining experience, Stella Mare’s offers a French country setting complete with garden views. Their greenhouse-like dining room and outdoor patio are perfect for enjoying the fall weather in a serene environment. The ambiance here is cozy and romantic, making it an excellent choice for a special date night or a leisurely weekend brunch.
Hitching Post 2
If you’re in the mood for a classic Central Coast steakhouse experience, Hitching Post 2 in nearby Buellton is worth the drive. The outdoor patio offers views of the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, and the restaurant is famous for its oak-grilled steaks and Santa Maria-style BBQ. Fall afternoons and evenings are particularly lovely here, as the temperatures remain comfortable, and the views are stunning.
Plan Your Fall Trip to Santa Barbara
As the weather cools down, the outdoor dining scene in Santa Barbara becomes even more appealing. The gentle breezes, clear skies, and golden-hour lighting create a quintessential fall ambiance that you won’t want to miss. Browse our Santa Barbara vacation homes to find the perfect place to stay during your getaway and start making some reservations!
