Summerland

Welcome to Summerland

A quaint, seaside haven with a charming artist community and one of the best places to take full advantage of the endless California sunshine

Slip away from the dense, busy city life for the small, seaside town and artist retreat of Summerland. Located near Montecito, Summerland is a homey, inviting ocean community rife with beach culture that makes it easy to take full advantage of the endless California sunshine. Living in Summerland will grant you unparalleled views of the Channel Islands and the Pacific Ocean.

Take time to stroll along Lillie Avenue, which is dotted with quaint shops, dining, and charming watering holes. Because it is a walkable town, you'll likely want to travel on foot along the thoroughfare as you go from shop to shop. You can also journey off the beaten path for a horseback ride along the beach or explore the many trails.

What to Love 

• Small-town charm 
• Artistic community
• Seaside haven 
• Boutique shopping 
• Outdoor recreation
• Beach culture
  

People & Lifestyle

Among the many housing options in Summerland are a handful of oceanfront properties, picturesque cottages, and ocean view condos. In many ways, Summerland is similar to a niche New England village. As a small town tucked between posh Montecito and beachy Carpinteria, Summerland inhabits attributes of each. It's coastal and quiet with a small population consisting primarily of retirees, families, and empty nesters. You may also recognize the town from the popular WB drama of the same name, although it only aired for two seasons.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping 

A popular staycation destination for Santa Barbara residents, Summerland is home to many quaint shops, antique stores, and boutiques along the walkable corridor of Ortega Hill Road to Lillie Avenue with casual to quality dining and comfortable friendly watering holes.

• Porch Summerland used to call Santa Claus Lane in Carpinteria home but has since relocated to Summerland. They specialize in an alfresco lifestyle, selling modern fire pits, tables, outdoor furniture, and decorative pieces to spruce up your space.
• A hybrid home interior shop that doubles as a café, Field + Fort is specially curated by renowned interior designer Kyle Irwin. Her design studio resides upstairs from the sophisticated establishment that sells everything from decor to antique furniture. 
• A curated, seaside space, Bonita Beach is an upscale boutique selling bohemian clothing, tropical swimwear, accessories, children’s apparel, and jewelry. 

Alongside the many niche shops and retailers are hidden gem restaurants and classic Summerland watering holes:

• Located inside an 1893 Victorian beach house, Summerland Beach Cafe offers outdoor dining on its patio and serves bacon dishes, burgers, breakfast, and much more. 
• Tinker's is a classic 50s-style burger joint serving specialty burgers, grilled fish tacos, and choice Mexican cuisine.
  
  

Things to Do

Thanks to the beautiful weather and close distance to the beach, Summerland is a great place to get outside and take advantage of your surroundings. Enjoy a bike ride through town, hike through Toro Canyon Park, or take a serene horseback ride along the beach. Summerland Beach Rides is a great way to experience the different sights, beaches, and trails in the area. They offer private group rides for riders of all ages, regardless of skill level.

Donated by H.L. Williams in 1890, Lookout Park is a beachfront property with picnic tables, birdwatching areas, hiking trails, a playground, and occasionally some fun surf out front. 

Summerland Winery is a local boutique winery dedicated to producing fine wines along the Central Coast and boasts an inviting tasting room. The wines made here primarily come from grapes grown in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Schools 

Summerland is primarily served by the Carpinteria Unified School District, which includes schools like Montecito Union and Summerland Elementary School.