Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara is known as “The American Riviera.” Its red-tiled roofs, Spanish colonial architecture, and palm-lined beaches give it a European coastal feel just 90 miles north of Los Angeles.
With a population of about 90,000, Santa Barbara offers a blend of laid-back beach culture, upscale dining, world-class wine, and year-round sunshine. The city’s Mediterranean climate averages 283 sunny days a year — perfect for outdoor adventures.
A Brief History
- Chumash Heritage: Long before Spanish arrival, the Chumash people lived here for thousands of years, thriving on fishing and trade.
- Spanish Era: In 1786, the Mission Santa Barbara was founded by Franciscan monks, becoming the tenth of California’s 21 missions. Its architecture still defines the city’s aesthetic today.
- Mexican to American Transition: After Mexican independence, the land was used for ranching until California became part of the U.S. in 1848.
- The Rebuild: A major 1925 earthquake destroyed much of downtown. City leaders chose to rebuild in a unified Spanish-Colonial style — creating the distinct look you see today.