Santa Barbara – Glick Real Estate Associates

WELCOME TO

SANTA BARBARA

AREA OVERVIEW

Often called the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara is a coastal
paradise where timeless charm meets modern sophistication.

Framed by the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara offers the perfect backdrop for outdoor living — from hiking, sailing, and surfing to simply unwinding on sun-drenched beaches. Beyond its natural beauty, Santa Barbara is defined by its Spanish-inspired architecture, vibrant arts and culture scene, and thriving food and wine community. Locals enjoy farm-to-table dining, boutique shopping, and world-class entertainment, all while living in one of California’s most coveted coastal cities.

REAL ESTATE INSIGHTS

Santa Barbara’s real estate is as captivating as its scenery. From classic bungalows and historic estates to sleek modern homes and beachfront properties, Santa Barbara offers an array of residences that reflect both elegance and individuality.

The city’s neighborhoods each carry their own appeal — whether it’s hillside homes with panoramic views, vibrant downtown residences close to shops and restaurants, or coastal enclaves that embrace beachside living. Buyers are drawn not only to the homes themselves, but also to the lifestyle: a balance of sophistication, natural beauty, and community connection. Santa Barbara continues to attract discerning buyers from around the world who value its enduring charm, cultural richness, and reputation as one of California’s most desirable places to live.

AREA ATTRACTIONS

Life in Santa Barbara is as much about the experience as it is about the setting. With year-round sunshine and an unbeatable coastal backdrop, outdoor adventures abound — from hiking scenic mountain trails to sailing along the Pacific and enjoying sunset walks on the beach. The city also offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, with world-class museums, galleries, theaters, and the iconic Santa Barbara Bowl for live music under the stars.

Food and wine lovers will find endless opportunities to indulge, from farm-to-table restaurants and casual seaside cafés to the celebrated Urban Wine Trail. Stroll along State Street for shopping and dining, explore the historic Mission, or spend a leisurely afternoon at the waterfront and Stearns Wharf. Whether you’re seeking outdoor recreation, cultural inspiration, or simply a relaxed coastal lifestyle, Santa Barbara offers an endless array of things to do and discover.

SANTA BARBARA NEIGHBORHOODS

Riviera

The Riviera, often called the “American Riviera” in reference to the famed European coastline, is one of Santa Barbara’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Its hillsides are lined with beautiful Spanish-style homes and winding streets that frame sweeping views. Many residences enjoy some of the best outlooks in town, capturing both the coastline and downtown Santa Barbara. The neighborhood is also home to the renowned Belmond El Encanto Hotel, adding a touch of timeless elegance to this hillside community.

San Roque

San Roque is one of Santa Barbara’s largest neighborhoods, stretching from lower Mission Canyon to La Cumbre Road and extending into the foothills above. Known as a true locals’ spot, it blends architectural eras with homes ranging from the 1930s through the 1970s. The area is prized for its tree-lined streets, schools, and easy access to shopping and parks. And as residents like to say, it’s always sunny in San Roque

Bel Air Knolls

Bel Air Knolls is a quiet residential neighborhood in Santa Barbara located east of Las Positas Road, on the beach side of Highway 101. Its elevated position gives many homes views of the ocean, city, and mountains while still offering easy access to downtown and the Mesa. The community is about 1.5 miles from Arroyo Burro Beach—known locally as Hendry’s Beach—making it one of the closest hillside neighborhoods to the sand, while also bordering Elings Park with over 200 acres of space to enjoy.

Eastside

Santa Barbara’s Eastside neighborhood stretches from East Beach to the Santa Barbara Bowl, offering a mix of historic charm and central convenience. Anchored by the vibrant Milpas Corridor, the area is home to local shops, restaurants, and markets that give it a lively community feel. Many of the residences are charming homes from the 1920s through the 1950s, showcasing classic Santa Barbara character.

Westside

Santa Barbara’s Westside neighborhood sits just west of Highway 101, with the Micheltorena bridge offering quick access to downtown and Mesa beaches. Constantly evolving, the area is rich with local flavor, featuring neighborhood shops and eateries along San Andres Street. The Westside is filled with charming homes that reflect “old school” Santa Barbara character, making it a vibrant and authentic part of the city.

Downtown

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a true urban lifestyle with quick access to State Street and the beach. Here, you’ll still find pre-1920s Victorian homes—many transformed into multifamily residences—alongside classic bungalows, condos, and apartments. After the 1920s, the city embraced its now-iconic Spanish aesthetic, creating a unique architectural mix. With its central location and vibrant energy, downtown is the heart of Santa Barbara living.

Hitchcock

The Hitchcock neighborhood in Santa Barbara centers around Hitchcock Way and includes several Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) and condo communities that provide convenient, low-maintenance living. Its location offers quick access to San Roque amenities, La Cumbre Plaza, and the nearby cinema, making shopping and entertainment just minutes away.

Campanil & Yankee Farm

Campanil and Yankee Farm are neighboring coastal enclaves in Santa Barbara, perched on the bluffs above Hendry’s Beach along a winding coastal road. This cliffside and hillside community is known for its large lots, privacy, and many homes with dramatic ocean, island, and sunset views. Just outside of Hope Ranch, the area offers a quiet retreat while remaining only minutes from town.

The name Campanil comes from the Italian word for “bell tower,” a nod to the iconic tower that once stood as a local landmark. Yankee Farm recalls the area’s agricultural past, when early settlers farmed the fertile land before it transformed into a residential community. Together, these neighborhoods capture both history and coastal beauty in a truly special corner of Santa Barbara.

El Cielito / Las Canoas

El Cielito and Las Canoas are hillside neighborhoods in Santa Barbara that blend the feel of a mountain retreat with the presence of larger estates. Many properties here sit on expansive lots and take advantage of dramatic ocean, island, and mountain views. The area offers a true mountain community setting with winding roads, oak trees, and easy access to hiking trails. Homes range from classic ranch styles to architectural custom builds, creating a mix of character that feels both private and distinctly Santa Barbara.

Upper East

Santa Barbara’s Upper East neighborhood begins just east of State Street downtown and surrounds the historic Santa Barbara Mission. The area is defined by a blend of grand estates and charming bungalows, all set along wide streets. With Alice Keck Park at its heart, the neighborhood offers both beauty and convenience. Residents enjoy quick access to downtown dining as well as cultural events at the Mission, making it one of the city’s most iconic and desirable locations.

Samarkand

Samarkand, meaning “land of heart’s desire” in Persian, is a centrally located Santa Barbara neighborhood with quick access to Highway 101. Often thought of as San Roque’s cousin, it overlooks that area from its gently elevated knoll. The neighborhood features winding streets, character homes, and a strong sense of community, all within minutes of shopping, dining, and Upper State Street Amenities.

Hidden Valley

Hidden Valley is a quiet Santa Barbara neighborhood tucked west of Las Positas Road with quick access to Highway 101. Off the beaten path, it feels reminiscent of the idyllic post–World War II era, with inviting homes and tree-lined streets. A newly completed bike path now connects the area directly to Hendry’s Beach, adding to its appeal. Hidden Valley offers a peaceful retreat while still being close to shopping, schools, and the coast.

Mesa

The Mesa is one of Santa Barbara’s largest neighborhoods, stretching along the coast from SBCC to Hendry’s Beach. Known for its laid-back beach vibe, the area is divided into West Mesa, East Mesa, and Alta Mesa, each with its own character and appeal. Residents enjoy access to some of the city’s most beloved outdoor spaces, including Shoreline Park, the Douglas Family Preserve, and the dramatic stairway at 1000 Steps. With its coastal setting, ocean breezes, and relaxed atmosphere, the Mesa captures the essence of Santa Barbara’s beach lifestyle.

Mission Canyon

Mission Canyon, set in the foothills of Santa Barbara, is known for its one-of-a-kind homes and a relaxed, free-spirited vibe reminiscent of the 1960s. Many properties here enjoy exceptional views of both the ocean and the mountains, offering a true sense of retreat. Residents have quick access to hiking trails and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, making nature a daily part of life. With its blend of natural beauty and bohemian charm, Mission Canyon feels uniquely Santa Barbara.

Oak Park

Oak Park is a centrally located Santa Barbara neighborhood known for its namesake park, a popular spot for picnics, festivals, and community gatherings under the shade of towering oaks. Situated near Cottage Hospital, it offers quick access to Highway 101 and is just minutes from downtown. The neighborhood features a blend of long-standing single-family homes that feel rooted in the community alongside multi-family properties, making it a diverse and welcoming area.

West Beach

West Beach is one of Santa Barbara’s most vibrant coastal neighborhoods, where Spanish-style architecture sets the tone. Its prime location makes it easy to stroll to the Funk Zone for wine tasting, enjoy beachfront restaurants, or take in the views from Stearns Wharf. The area offers a mix of housing, from historic Spanish bungalows to condos and apartments, alongside boutique hotels. With its walkability, coastal energy, and lively surroundings, West Beach captures the essence of Santa Barbara’s seaside lifestyle.

East Beach

East Beach is one of Santa Barbara’s most active and beach-oriented neighborhoods, known for its wide sandy shoreline and recreational amenities. Several large condo communities and numerous hotels line the area, giving it both a residential and resort feel. Residents and visitors alike enjoy beach volleyball, the palm-lined bike path, and nearby Chase Palm Park with its playgrounds, lawns, and community events. With easy access to lower State Street and just a short drive to Montecito, East Beach combines convenience with a true coastal lifestyle. It’s a neighborhood where everyday living feels like a vacation.

Eucalyptus Hill

Eucalyptus Hill is a prestigious Santa Barbara neighborhood situated between the Riviera and Montecito, offering the best of both worlds. The community is comprised of a wide range of homes—from grand estates with phenomenal ocean, island, and city views to ranch-style and modern residences that feel more down-to-earth. This blend of scale and style makes the area both distinctive and highly livable. With its prime hillside setting and close proximity to downtown Santa Barbara and Montecito’s Lower Village, Eucalyptus Hill stands out as one of the region’s most desirable neighborhoods.

Note: Some properties may appear more than once in our listings. This happens because certain homes are listed in multiple MLS areas

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