Wandering through Santa Barbara feels like you’ve taken a trip overseas. With its old Spanish architecture, cobblestone walkways, and mix of new, eclectic shops, Santa Barbara is filled with several gems and hidden alleys. We’ve highlighted a few.
Guide to Santa Barbara’s Hidden Alleys
Paseo Nuevo
Starting at the intersection of State Street and Ortega, you’ll find one of Santa Barbara’s most famous walkways. Paseo Nuevo is known for its winding walkways and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. The strip is home to local movie theatres, gelato shops, and eateries. Its Spanish-style architecture and colorful tilings make it a perfect place to cruise around on a sunny day.
Beside the Lobero Theatre
At the corner of Anacapa St. and E Canon Perdido St. is the Lobero Theatre. Just due west of the theatre is a small alleyway that features a number of tucked-away establishments. Grab some local honey from Santa Barbara Hives, or stroll one of the many boutiques on the strip.
Victoria Court
This small plaza is the perfect place to hang out and shop. Located just across from the Granada Theatre, one of Santa Barbara’s most iconic establishments, this alleyway is another beautiful stop-off. You’ll find restaurants and shops, and it has plenty to explore.
Between Figueroa and Anapamu
Our favorite hidden alley on this list is between E Figueroa St. and W Anapamu St. Both State Street and Chapala St border the alleyway. It features a beautiful courtyard ideal for relaxing with a cup of coffee or getting work done on your computer. There is a CorePower Yoga studio, plus a cafe in the courtyard. Whether you’re there to get in a workout or escape to a quiet place, this small courtyard is one of our favorite spots in Santa Barbara.
Right Beside the Museum of Art
Whether it’s before or after you hit up the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, we recommend checking out the quaint little alley that’s tucked between State St and Anacapa St. This can be accessed from E Figueroa St, and it will take you to E Anapamu St. Here you’ll find local boutiques and Petit Valentien, a French restaurant with beautiful outdoor seating. This hidden alleyway is one of our favorites in Santa Barbara.
Between M Special and The Habit
This alleyway doesn’t have many shops or restaurants, but it’s a cozy little walkway off State Street. You can grab a burger at The Habit Burger Grill, and then cruise through the decorative alleyway and check out Urban Outfitters. If you’re feeling thirsty, hit up M Special, one of Santa Barbara’s local breweries.
While exploring Santa Barbara, stop by our Beach Hostel. We offer affordable accommodations, an unmatched social environment, and a free pancake breakfast every morning.
For a better look at what it’s like to explore Santa Barbara, watch this video!
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