If you want to explore outside of Santa Barbara, there is so much to discover just a few miles away—starting with the small surf town of Carpinteria, California. “Carp,” as locals call it, is Santa Barbara’s laid-back sister that has quietly become the cool one: a charming beach town with waves, walkable streets, and a growing list of exciting new restaurants, coffee spots, and boutiques alongside the classic local favorites that have been here forever. It’s the kind of easy Santa Barbara day trip (or weekend add-on) that feels effortless—beach first, then a few great stops and a delicious dinner.
Morning: A classic start
Breakfast at Esau’s Cafe
Esau’s A Santa Barbara-area classic since 1961, Esau’s Café is an easy, surfy diner for unfussy American breakfast—famous pancakes, big portions, and good coffee.
Coffee at Lucky Llama
Lucky Llama Coffee House is where hipster meets surfer culture—good place to catch a vibe for the day, with tasty coffee creations and solid avocado toast options.
Beach time + Lunch
Plan A: Santa Claus Lane Beach
Santa Claus Lane Beach is an ideal spot to learn to surf or go paddleboarding thanks to its gentle waves. Board rentals are nearby atA-Frame Surf, which makes the whole morning feel simple and relaxed.
Lunch: Padaro Grill
For lunch, Padaro Grill is a great post or mid-beach day stop—simple, satisfying, and relaxed with plenty of room for the kids to run around and play.
Solid Plan B: To-go Sandwiches + Head To Rincon Point
If you want something more wild and quiet, head toRincon Point. You can hike the bluffs and drop down to a more isolated stretch of beach. At low tide, you’ll find tide pools brimming with sea life—sometimes with not a person in sight.
To-go Lunch: Pacific Health Foods
This family-operated grocer has plenty of healthy options. Try the juice bar, or grab sandwiches the beach—one of those places that makes the rest of the day smoother.
Retail Therapy
Macher: the perfect place to shop for local gifts, souvenirs, or something for yourself—curated and cute.
Skyhop: Carpinteria's newest boutique, supporting local + abroad artisans.
Heritage Goods & Supply: quality brands and workshops that will enrich your authentic lifestyle (a fun one to browse).
Loveworn: Owner Jill Johnson has opened her 2nd location on Linden in Carp. Think vintage demin Levi's and Jill's own creations, a must stop.
Dinner + Drinks:
Little Dom's: End the day with dinner at Little Dom’s. Anything from the raw bar or wood oven is an epic choice—easy, cozy, and a great finish.
Little Dom's chef Brandon Boudet and Warner Ebbink
Third Window: For an easy dinner, go to Third Window for a beer and one of their Wagyu smash burgers (best burger of your life!) It’s casual, fun, and perfect after the beach or if you just want something low-key but really good.
Carpinteria is the ideal add-on to a Santa Barbara weekend—close, calm, and quietly special.
Shop the Santa Barbara Guidebookfor more Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, and Montecito addresses (plus the ones we don’t post online).
Little Dom's chef Brandon Boudet and Warner Ebbink
