1. Santa Barbara
Ok, no real shocker here. This is the city which forms the basis of our much wider community. Home of one of the Spanish Missions, Mission de Santa Barbara was known as the "Queen of the Alta Missions" and was one of three to host a Presidio. Santa Barbara is the county seat of the greater County of Santa Barbara with a metro population of ~220,000. State Street is the main avenue which cuts through the downtown area; lining it are popular stores, delicious restaurants, and important businesses.
2. Montecito
Home of one of the most expensive area codes in all of the United States, many celebrities and other wealthy business people live tucked into Montecito's hills and valleys. Much of the area appreciates world-class ocean views. Coupled with a small-town population of ~9000,Montecito is truly a gem. Check out the San Ysidro Ranch for a free walk around the beautiful resort where the John and Jackie Kennedy honeymooned amongst some of the most stunning garden scenery in the area.
3. Goleta
A little further north up US Highway 101, Goleta was incorporated in 2002 and instantly became the second largest city after Santa Barbara in the general area. It is known for being near the University of California, Santa Barbara campus although the campus itself remains in unincorporated ground. Goleta is home to many beautiful suburbs and boasts some of the most prominent public high schools around.
4. Hope Ranch
This neighborhood was named after the Irishman Thomas Hope who purchased the land in 1861 for sheep ranching. It was not developed into the residential area it is now until 1921. Besides Montecito, Hope Ranch houses some of the most stunning ocean-view homes. Drive up Cliff Dr and stop where many others do at a turnout to admire the Pacific Ocean firsthand hundreds of feet up; you won't be disappointed.
5. Isla Vista
Oh, College. This is where 20000 some odd UC students live in a ~1 sq mile quintessential southern California college town. Surprisingly, some of the best food at modest prices in the county can be found here (Freeb!rds World Burrito is the typical tourist stop.) Del Playa Dr is home to 12 person houses that are literally dangling over the cliff above the Pacific Ocean at some parts, affording young boys and girls the chance to live oceanfront while still under the age of 25. If only I had been so lucky!
6. Carpenteria
Known as Carp to the locals who live south of Montecito along the 101, this area is home to one of the best beaches in Santa Barbara as well as the prestigious Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club where Prince William played a charity polo match recently while touring the States after the Royal Wedding. However, the true call-to-fame for Carpinteria is its hosting of the California Avocado Festival each October. Go even further south to check out the world-famous surfspot Rincon, where Kelly Slater owns a home.
7. Mission Canyon
Though small in population this area is named after the famed mission and is located northeast of the city of Santa Barbara. Winding roads that jut out to cliffs with beautiful ocean views gives this neighborhood a different, more apt nickname: "American Riviera."
8. The Waterfront
Mostly home to businesses and hotels, the Waterfront of Santa Barbara is one of the first stops upon passing through. The Zoo calls the area home as does the famed Pier. Ty Warner's Sea Center is a fun learning experience for old and young alike.
9. The Mesa
Stretching from Santa Barbara City College, home of 20000 students, and Arroyo Burro County Beach, the Mesa certainly has a beach town vibe to it. Being close to the college and beach gives this area a younger feeling than much of the rest of the neighborhoods.
10. San Roque
Northwest of the downtown area is San Roque which offers families placement into the Hope School District, one of the most highly desired. To no shock, it is also the best spot for Trick-or-Treating on Halloween.
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