The best things to do in Santa Barbara

“When you want a low-fuss spot to catch the newest releases without trekking to SB, Metropolitan Fairview Theatre keeps it cozy with crowd-pleasing picks and relaxed neighborhood vibes. The Metropolitan Theatres app makes checking showtimes easy, so you can pivot from dinner to popcorn in minutes.”

From the Goleta newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Santa Barbara Golf Club is our laid-back muni with a well-kept course, a driving range to fix that slice, and Mulligan’s Cafe & Bar when you’ve earned a bite. Ladies Learn & Play is on the calendar this week, so nudge a friend and make it a thing.”

From the Santa Barbara newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Cal Coast Adventures turns a normal Saturday into a mini-escape with electric and city bike tours, mountain and road rides, surf lessons, and easy kayak or SUP outings. Friendly local guides and solid gear make it simple to chase views, build skills, or just cruise the waterfront without overthinking logistics.”

“Hidden behind the gates and framed by mountain and sea, Birnam Wood Golf Club is a members-only refuge with a Robert Trent Jones Sr. ” Premier, full-service experience and the kind of privacy locals quietly appreciate.”

From the Santa Barbara newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Golfing destination offering a restaurant and practice facility, plus event space.”

“Vera Cruz - House with Murals was inspired by Sanford Darling’s House of 1000 Paintings, then covered with pieces from over sixty local artists, each sharing a memory. Stroll by for a quick color hit and a sweet reminder of the stories being lived right here.”

From the Santa Barbara newsletter, August 19, 2026

“The Golf Lounge brings TrackMan-powered indoor golf to Santa Barbara with a chill hang vibe, craft beer and food from Validation Ale delivered right to your bay. Squeeze in a quick round after work, dial in your numbers, then hang with friends while the marine layer does its thing.”

From the Santa Barbara newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Need a low-key movie night that actually happens? Metropolitan Metro 4 Theatre keeps it simple with current films and that lovely hush when the lights drop, so grab a friend, silence the group chat, and let the big screen reset your brain in the best way this week.”

From the Santa Barbara newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Montecito Club pairs a Jack Nicklaus Signature course with a legit fitness center and elegant event spaces, creating a private, multigenerational hangout where Santa Barbara locals chase birdies, cross-train, then toast the day at something social. It feels classic, yet very much now.”

From the Santa Barbara newsletter, September 10, 2026

“This bowling alley features an arcade with billiard tables plus a watering hole serving pub grub.”

“The Hitchcock Cinema (Metropolitan Theatres) is your low-key spot to catch current films without turning movie night into an ordeal. It’s the kind of cozy local theater that makes a midweek matinee or last-minute plan feel easy, familiar, and very Santa Barbara.”

From the Santa Barbara newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Cozy theater with Spanish-style exterior showing current films with discounts on select matinees.”

“SBIFF Film Center keeps a thoughtful rotation of new releases, restorations, and special series like NT Live and French Wave, plus the occasional filmmaker Q&A. Grab a seat, then wander the in-house gallery for The Visual Legacy of Barbara Boros before you head home.”

From the Santa Barbara newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Waterfront 18-hole course, founded in 1972, with a casual grill & an onsite shop.”

“If your yard and brain need a breather, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is 78 acres of Mission Canyon calm where miles of trails, century-celebrating exhibits, and smart ideas for pollinator-friendly, fire-wise landscaping make a quick stroll feel useful. Go wander, then steal inspiration for home.”

From the Santa Barbara newsletter, August 12, 2026

“For members and lucky guests, La Cumbre Country Club brings that classic Santa Barbara blend of ocean-meets-mountain views, a historic, all-levels golf challenge, six championship plexi-pave tennis courts, aquatics and a new fitness center, plus outdoor dining and polished, genuinely attentive service.”

From the Santa Barbara newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Movie theater with a curated film selection and occasional visits from directors and actors.”

“Golfing spot with a range plus a 9-hole course, alongside lesson available from staff.”