If you’re looking for the perfect retreat to launch the holiday gift-giving season, consider shopping in Santa Barbara. Let warm and sunny California greet you — no heavy winter coats needed. And the views? Breathtaking! The stay? Exquisite! The shopping? Phenomenal!
You have a long list to fulfill, so hunting for the best holiday deals is vital. But you’ll also want to explore the area for all those fun, unique, elegant gifts that offer a one-of-a-kind, got-it-because-you’re-special-to-me ‘feel.’ And you’ll find plenty of those here in Santa Barbara — conveniently close to The Eagle Inn.
Prepare to greet the holidays in style — California-style. And when the gifts are opened? Everyone on your list will do their little ‘happy dance.’ Let the oohing and ahhing commence, especially if you’ve chosen the gift of a getaway.
Since it’s always best to begin with a plan, we’ve assembled a holiday shopping guide to walk you through where to find the best deals, steals, gifts, and holiday markets to keep you ‘Ho-ho-ho-ing’ all season long. So, grab your notepad, planner, wallet, and preferred glass of holiday cheer, and let’s get started.
Discover Local Boutiques
If you’ve never visited our city, then you’re missing out. The Santa Barbara Funk Zone is the place to be. It’s where you’ll find all the spectacularly unique shops and boutiques. Do you have a hard-to-buy-for person on your list? We all have at least one. Consider a one-of-a-kind gift that’ll leave them oohing and aahing long after the glitter fades.
So, what are a few of these mysterious boutiques?
- Jules by the Sea — handmade bling? Yes, please!
- Dylan Star — a chic and sleek clothing boutique
- Paradise Found — perfect finds for horoscope lovers
- Antique Alley — all things vintage, ideal for retro divas
- Cutler’s Artisan Spirits — unique sips, suds, and more from a Prohibition-era store
From handmade jewelry to gifts, apparel, or spirits from a winery dating back to the Prohibition era, there’s much to love and look forward to within the realm of the Funk Zone. And to top it off, the Funk Zone is a short walk from The Eagle Inn.
Explore Artisan Markets for Unique Gifts
Technically, many of the Funk Zone boutiques also qualify as artisan markets, but let’s not get technical. In truth, Santa Barbara has many artisan shops and markets — enough to fill your entire week and possibly more.
From pop-up markets, which we’ll discuss later, to unique boutiques, our city has abundant talent. Check out:
- Seaside Makers — a beach and apothecary-lovers dream
- The Yes Store — locally handmade gifts, perfect for cultured connoisseurs
- Stabiles — distinctive style and home goods, ideal for making a statement
There’s a different flavor of artisanal expertise for every shopper’s preferences. That recipient on your list who’s hard to shop for? Not anymore! Forget fretting about whether you must toss in a gift receipt to ensure easy returnability. Instead, find something that complements their preferences, hobbies, or interests and is unique enough to keep things interesting.
Must-Stop Seasonal Markets
Itching to browse a seasonal market or event? Want to sprinkle a little jolly into your holiday ‘get-up?’ We have a few places to make your inner elf shimmy and shake with merry gift-giving delight.
- Farmer and the Flea — eco-conscious vintage finds and artisanal treasures
- A Crimson Holiday — hand-crafted gifts and art for holiday devotees
- Streets of Vintage Market — antiquated finds perfect for vintage and retro fans
- Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show — beautiful hand-crafted art with coastal flare
Before dashing to these markets, be sure to check their calendars. Some markets are only open on specific dates.
Wine Lover Gifts
Are you shopping for a wine enthusiast? Then, you’ll want to head to the following Santa Barbara wine stores to snag the best sips for sweet, savory, and delightful gifts that will surely please someone on your shopping list.
- Meritage Wine Market — ideal for fans of rare vintages and boutique labels
- Renegade Wines — best sips for unique varietals from independent winemakers
- SamsARA Wine Co — best for Santa Barbara wine enthusiasts who love unique terroirs
These wine stores offer everything the wine lover on your holiday shopping list will love and admire, from unique and flavorful sips and terroirs to branded swag and gift cards — no return receipt necessary.
Where to Find High-End, Luxury Gifts
While you’re out shopping in Santa Barbara, stop in at some of the fantastic luxury shops. They’re the perfect places to find something extra-special for the fashion diva on your holiday shopping list.
- Whiskey and Leather — perfect for boho-chic fashion-lovers
- Salt Boutique — best for those who love coastal fashion charm
- DIANI — exquisite picks for luxury fashion and lifestyle enthusiasts
- COACH Outlet — a must-stop for designer handbag fans
Be it a designer handbag, boho, or designer apparel, these boutiques are must-stop shops when only the finest gifts will suffice.
Hidden Gems: Shopping in the Historic District
Everyone has at least one — and often more — art enthusiast on their holiday shopping list. That said, Santa Barbara is brimming with talented artisans and artists. So, of course, there are as many places to admire and shop for all the cultured connoisseurs and art and history buffs on your holiday gift list. A few places to begin hunting for those artsy gems include:
- Santa Barbara Museum of Art — an art and culture lovers’ utopia
- Renaissance Corp — perfect hidden gems for vintage finds
- Waterhouse Gallery — top spot for those who love nature and art
These local spots are the perfect places to find cultured pieces for the collector or art and artisan gifts for the casual art admirer. Either way, you’re sure to find a treasure trove of options those on your shopping list will be ‘over the moon’ for.
Start Your Holiday Shopping in Santa Barbara
With the holiday season quickly approaching, don’t delay your holiday retreat. Reserve your room, grab your partner — or the girls — and get ready for some of the best holiday shopping in Santa Barbara!
And when you’re not shopping? Sit back, relax, and enjoy your stay.
Shopping is a lot of work, so take time for yourself, too. Stroll along the beach. Sit on our balcony and relax while watching the sun sink into the horizon. Enjoy some local sips or suds. Dine local. Explore the galleries, museums, and many other things to do. And if you want an elegant way to unwind, upgrade your stay, be it with a Bubbles ‘N’ Bath package or a soothing couples massage. Your room called — it’s ready for you.
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