Santa Barbara Utilities
1. Electricity
Southern California Edison (SCE)
Website: Southern California Edison
SCE provides electricity to most of the Santa Barbara area.
2. Natural Gas
Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas)
Website: SoCalGas
SoCalGas provides natural gas services to homes and businesses.
3. Water & Sewer
City of Santa Barbara Water Department
Website: City of Santa Barbara Water
The City of Santa Barbara provides water and sewer services for city residents.
In certain unincorporated areas, other water districts such as Montecito Water District may be the service provider.
4. Trash & Recycling
MarBorg Industries
Website: MarBorg Industries
MarBorg handles trash, recycling, and green waste services in Santa Barbara.
5. Internet & Cable
Cox Communications
Website: Cox Communications
Cox provides high-speed internet, cable TV, and phone services.
Frontier Communications (in some areas)
Website: Frontier Communications
School District Offices in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD)
Address: 720 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Description: The SBUSD oversees public schools in the Santa Barbara area, including elementary, junior high, and high schools.
Goleta Union School District (GUSD)
Address: 401 N Fairview Ave, Goleta, CA 93117
Website: Goleta Union School District
Description: GUSD serves elementary schools in the neighboring Goleta area, which is just north of Santa Barbara.
Carpinteria Unified School District (CUSD)
Address: 1400 Linden Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013
Website: Carpinteria Unified School District
Description: CUSD manages the public schools in Carpinteria, a nearby coastal city to the southeast of Santa Barbara.
Colleges in Santa Barbara:
University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB)
Address: 5221 Cheadle Hall, Santa Barbara, CA 93106
Website: UCSB
Description: A major research university in the University of California system, UCSB is known for its strong academic programs and beautiful beachfront campus.
Santa Barbara City College (SBCC)
Address: 721 Cliff Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Website: Santa Barbara City College
Description: SBCC is a highly regarded community college offering two-year degrees and transfer programs, as well as career and technical education.
Westmont College
Address: 955 La Paz Rd, Montecito, CA 93108
Website: Westmont College
Description: A private Christian liberal arts college located in Montecito, near Santa Barbara, offering undergraduate degrees in a variety of disciplines.
Antioch University Santa Barbara
Address: 602 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: Antioch University Santa Barbara
Description: A private university offering graduate and undergraduate degree programs, with a focus on social justice and experiential learning.
Fielding Graduate University
Address: 2020 De La Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Website: Fielding Graduate University
Description: An accredited nonprofit university offering graduate programs in fields like psychology, education, and leadership for adult learners.
Senior Centers and Support Services
Santa Barbara County Adult & Aging Network
Website: Adult & Aging Network
Description: This county-wide network provides support for aging adults, including resources for senior services, housing assistance, and healthcare.
Santa Barbara Senior Center
Address: 423 W Victoria St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: Santa Barbara Senior Center
Description: A hub for recreational and social activities, educational classes, and senior advocacy. They also offer support services like meals, transportation, and wellness checks.
Area Agency on Aging (Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens)
Website: Central Coast Seniors
Description: The Area Agency on Aging provides information and services for older adults, including advocacy, case management, meal programs, legal assistance, and Medicare counseling.
Easy Lift Transportation
Website: Easy Lift Transportation
Description: A non-profit organization offering specialized transportation services for seniors and disabled individuals who cannot use public transit due to mobility issues.
Healthcare Services for Seniors
Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics (SBNC)
Website: SBNC
Description: SBNC provides low-cost healthcare, dental services, and mental health support for seniors, regardless of their ability to pay.
Cottage Health: Senior Services
Website: Cottage Health
Description: Cottage Health offers a range of healthcare services for seniors, including primary care, geriatric care, and access to specialized senior wellness programs.
Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care (VNHC)
Website: VNHC
Description: VNHC provides home healthcare, palliative care, and hospice services for seniors in the comfort of their own homes.
Senior Housing and Assisted Living
Friendship Manor
Website: Friendship Manor
Description: A non-profit independent living community for seniors in Goleta, offering affordable housing options with meal services and social activities.
Villa Santa Barbara
Website: Villa Santa Barbara
Description: Assisted living facility offering residential options for seniors with supportive services, including meals, transportation, and wellness programs.
Casa Dorinda
Website: Casa Dorinda
Description: A luxury retirement community in Montecito providing independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care.
Food Assistance and Nutrition Programs
Meals on Wheels Santa Barbara
Website: Meals on Wheels
Description: Delivers hot, nutritious meals to homebound seniors in Santa Barbara who are unable to prepare meals for themselves.
Senior Nutrition Program (Community Action Commission)
Website: CAC Senior Nutrition
Description: Provides healthy meals for seniors at various community centers and delivers meals to homebound seniors throughout the county.
Recreation and Social Activities
Santa Barbara Parks & Recreation - Senior Programs
Website: Santa Barbara Parks & Rec
Description: Offers fitness classes, educational programs, and social events designed for seniors at various locations, including the Carrillo Recreation Center.
Santa Barbara Village
Website: Santa Barbara Village
Description: A membership-based organization providing social and educational events for seniors as well as volunteer services like transportation and home maintenance.
Legal Assistance
Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County
Website: Legal Aid Foundation
Description: Provides free legal services for low-income seniors, including help with housing, elder abuse, and healthcare rights.
Senior Citizens Legal Services
Website: Senior Citizens Legal Services
Description: Offers legal advice and representation to seniors on issues like estate planning, guardianship, and elder law.
Historical and Architectural Landmarks
Santa Barbara Mission ("Queen of the Missions")
Address: 2201 Laguna St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Website: Santa Barbara Mission
Description: Founded in 1786, this historic Spanish mission is one of the most iconic landmarks in Santa Barbara, known for its stunning architecture, gardens, and a museum showcasing its history.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Address: 1100 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: Santa Barbara Courthouse
Description: Famous for its Spanish Colonial Revival style, the courthouse features mural rooms, a clock tower with panoramic city views, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park
Address: 123 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: El Presidio
Description: This Spanish military fort was built in 1782 to protect the region, and it’s now a preserved historic site offering visitors a glimpse into early California history.
Casa de la Guerra
Address: 15 E De La Guerra St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: Casa de la Guerra
Description: This historic adobe house was once the home of the Spanish commandant, José de la Guerra, and is now a museum that highlights Santa Barbara's early history.
Arlington Theatre
Address: 1317 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: Arlington Theatre
Description: Built in 1931, the Arlington is a classic Spanish Colonial Revival movie palace and a popular venue for films, concerts, and events.
Natural Landmarks
Stearns Wharf
Address: 219 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: Stearns Wharf
Description: The oldest working wooden wharf in California, built in 1872, Stearns Wharf is a popular tourist spot with restaurants, shops, and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Address: 1212 Mission Canyon Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Website: Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Things to do
1. Santa Barbara Parks & Recreation
Website: Santa Barbara Parks & Recreation
Description: The Parks & Recreation Department offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including parks, playgrounds, beaches, sports facilities, and community events. You can find information on local parks, hiking trails, tennis courts, and recreational programs for all ages.
2. Santa Barbara Zoo
Website: Santa Barbara Zoo
Description: One of the most popular family destinations, the Santa Barbara Zoo features over 500 animals, educational programs, a train ride, and interactive exhibits that make it a fun outing for kids and parents alike.
3. MOXI - The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
Website: MOXI
Description: MOXI is an interactive science and technology museum designed to engage families and children through hands-on exhibits related to science, technology, engineering, and art.
4. Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
Website: Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
Description: Families can explore the rich maritime history of the Santa Barbara coast through interactive exhibits, a working periscope, and hands-on learning experiences.
5. Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Description: This museum is perfect for curious kids, offering exhibits on local wildlife, geology, paleontology, and a planetarium. Families can also explore nature trails and hands-on activities for children.
6. Lotusland
Website: Lotusland
Description: Lotusland is a stunning 37-acre garden with rare plants, perfect for a family stroll. It’s an educational and beautiful experience for children who enjoy nature and exploring exotic plant life.
7. Stearns Wharf
Website: Stearns Wharf
Description: Stearns Wharf is a great spot for families to visit, with local restaurants, an aquarium (Sea Center), and shops, plus gorgeous views of the harbor and ocean.
8. Santa Barbara Adventure Company
Website: Santa Barbara Adventure Company
Description: Families can enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or biking. The company offers tours for all skill levels and ages, making it a great way to explore the natural beauty of the Santa Barbara coast.
9. Santa Barbara Public Library
Website: Santa Barbara Public Library
Description: The library offers a range of family-friendly programs such as storytime for young children, craft sessions, book clubs, and learning workshops. It’s a great community resource for parents and kids alike.
10. Whale Watching Tours
Website: Condor Express Whale Watching
Description: Santa Barbara is a prime spot for whale watching, and the Condor Express offers family-friendly boat tours to see humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine life.
11. Family-Friendly Beaches
Website: Santa Barbara Beaches
Description: The city's website offers a directory of beaches that are perfect for families, including popular spots like Leadbetter Beach, Arroyo Burro (Hendry's Beach), and East Beach.
12. Santa Barbara Kids Activities Directory
Website: Kids Activities Directory
Description: This local directory offers listings of all the kid-friendly activities, including playgrounds, museums, adventure tours, educational programs, and seasonal events.
13. Santa Barbara Family YMCA
Website: Santa Barbara Family YMCA
Description: The YMCA offers fitness classes, sports leagues, swimming lessons, and camps for kids and families, as well as parent-child programs and community events.
14. Sea Center (Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History)
Website: Sea Center
Description: Located on Stearns Wharf, the Sea Center offers hands-on exhibits about local marine life, including touch tanks, and interactive displays, perfect for families to explore the underwater world.
Santa Barbara is renowned for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene. Here are 20 of the best restaurants in the area, offering a variety of cuisines, from farm-to-table to seafood, fine dining, and casual eateries
1. The Lark
Cuisine: New American, Farm-to-Table
Address: 131 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: thelarksb.com
Description: Located in the trendy Funk Zone, The Lark serves seasonal, locally sourced dishes in a communal dining atmosphere.
2. Bouchon Santa Barbara
Cuisine: French, Californian
Address: 9 W Victoria St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: bouchonsantabarbara.com
Description: A fine dining restaurant that highlights California cuisine with a French twist, offering an extensive wine list featuring local vintages.
3. Loquita
Cuisine: Spanish, Tapas
Address: 202 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: loquitasb.com
Description: Loquita specializes in authentic Spanish tapas, paella, and an impressive selection of Spanish wines and cocktails.
4. Brophy Bros.
Cuisine: Seafood
Address: 119 Harbor Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Website: brophybros.com
Description: Overlooking the Santa Barbara Harbor, this lively seafood spot is known for fresh oysters, clam chowder, and views of the marina.
5. Arigato Sushi
Cuisine: Japanese, Sushi
Address: 1225 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Description: A go-to for sushi lovers, Arigato is popular for its fresh fish, creative rolls, and artistic presentations.
6. Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
Cuisine: Seafood
Address: 230 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: shellfishco.com
Description: Located on Stearns Wharf, this small seafood restaurant serves up local favorites like lobster, crabs, and clam chowder.
7. Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery
Cuisine: American, Bakery
Address: 1253 Coast Village Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
Website: jeannines.com
Description: A beloved breakfast and brunch spot, Jeannine’s is famous for its pastries, scrambles, and healthy bowls.
8. Ca' Dario
Cuisine: Italian
Address: 37 E Victoria St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: cadario.net
Description: A favorite for authentic Italian fare, Ca' Dario offers classic pasta dishes, seafood, and a stellar wine list.
9. Toma Restaurant & Bar
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Address: 324 W Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: tomarestaurant.com
Description: An intimate, waterfront Italian-Mediterranean restaurant offering handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and romantic views.
10. El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel (The Dining Room)
Cuisine: Californian
Address: 800 Alvarado Pl, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Website: belmond.com/elencanto
Description: For a luxurious dining experience, El Encanto offers elevated California cuisine with stunning panoramic views of the city and ocean.
11. Finch & Fork
Cuisine: American
Address: 31 W Carrillo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: finchandforkrestaurant.com
Description: Located inside the Kimpton Canary Hotel, Finch & Fork serves up modern comfort food with an emphasis on local ingredients.
12. La Super-Rica Taqueria
Cuisine: Mexican
Address: 622 N Milpas St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Description: A local favorite for Mexican food, La Super-Rica is famous for its fresh, handmade tortillas and affordable, authentic tacos.
13. Convivo Restaurant and Bar
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Address: 901 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Website: convivorestaurant.com
Description: Located in the Santa Barbara Inn, Convivo offers Italian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes with oceanfront views.
14. Opal Restaurant and Bar
Cuisine: Californian, Fusion
Address: 1325 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: opalrestaurantandbar.com
Description: Opal serves global fusion cuisine with a California twist, offering dishes that incorporate fresh, local ingredients.
15. Jane
Cuisine: American, Californian
Address: 1311 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: janerestaurantsb.com
Description: A family-owned restaurant that serves American classics and comfort food with a modern flair in a chic, welcoming setting.
16. Lucky Penny
Cuisine: Pizza, Casual
Address: 127 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: luckypennysb.com
Description: Known for its wood-fired pizzas and relaxed vibe, Lucky Penny is a go-to spot for casual dining in the Funk Zone.
17. Sama Sama Kitchen
Cuisine: Southeast Asian, Fusion
Address: 1208 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: samasamakitchen.com
Description: Offering Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh, farm-to-table ingredients, Sama Sama is a popular spot for those seeking bold, innovative flavors.
18. Bettina Pizzeria
Cuisine: Italian, Pizza
Address: 1014 Coast Village Rd, Montecito, CA 93108
Website: bettinapizzeria.com
Description: This artisanal pizzeria in Montecito offers Neapolitan-style pizzas using local, seasonal ingredients and naturally leavened dough.
19. Barbareno
Cuisine: Californian, Farm-to-Table
Address: 205 W Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Website: barbareno.com
Description: Barbareno is a modern California restaurant with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients, offering dishes inspired by the region’s cultural history.
20. Cold Spring Tavern
Cuisine: American, Steakhouse
Address: 5995 Stagecoach Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Website: coldspringtavern.com
Description: A historic 19th-century stagecoach stop turned rustic tavern, Cold Spring offers hearty American fare like tri-tip sandwiches and steaks, with a charming Old West atmosphere.
These restaurants showcase Santa Barbara's diverse food scene, offering everything from fine dining and fresh seafood to casual eats and authentic ethnic cuisine.