Explore the best coffee spots in Santa Barbara, from Handlebar Coffee Roasters to Lokum Coffee, for a perfect cup of coffee in the heart of California.
Santa Barbara is known for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and great coffee! Whether you’re walking through town, relaxing by the ocean, or hiking in the mountains, there are plenty of coffee shops to stop by for a strong espresso or a creamy latte.
Each café has its own special atmosphere. Some are perfect for relaxing with a book, while others are great for hanging out with friends. Many of these shops use locally roasted coffee beans and have delicious pastries to go with your drink, making your visit even better.
Ready for a coffee adventure? In this article, we’ll take you to the best coffee shops in Santa Barbara!
Dart Coffee Co.
Dart Coffee Co. is a popular coffee shop located in the heart of Santa Barbara, known for its welcoming atmosphere and high-quality coffee. At Dart Coffee Co., coffee is taken seriously. They focus on sourcing the best beans from around the world and roast them in-house to ensure freshness.
You can expect a wide variety of coffee drinks, from classic espresso shots to flavorful pour-overs. They also offer unique specialty drinks that change regularly, so there’s always something new to try. For those who prefer non-coffee options, Dart also has delicious teas and refreshing cold drinks.
Their baked goods are often made by local bakers, ensuring freshness and supporting the community. You can enjoy a buttery croissant, a slice of cake, or a healthy snack alongside your drink.
Dart Coffee Co. is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a community hub. They often host events, art displays, and live music, giving you a chance to experience the creativity of the area while enjoying your favorite brew.
Handlebar Coffee Roasters
Handlebar Coffe Roasters has made a name for itself in the local coffee scene. It is one of the top shops in Santa Barbara, standing out for its strong focus on quality and community. The coffee is carefully sourced from farmers around the world, emphasizing sustainability and ethical practices. They roast their beans in-house to ensure the freshest flavor possible. The menu features a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso, pour-overs, and cold brews.
In addition to excellent coffee, Handlebar Coffee Roasters serves a variety of tasty pastries and snacks. They partner with local bakeries to provide fresh pastries, muffins, and light bites that pair perfectly with your drink.
Additionally, they frequently host events, workshops, and coffee tastings, allowing customers to deepen their knowledge of coffee and connect with others who share their passion.
Santa Barbara Roasting Company
Santa Barbara Roasting Company is a well-loved coffee shop known for its commitment to quality and community. Located in the heart of Santa Barbara, this café is a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a great cup of coffee.
The menu at Santa Barbara Roasting Company features a wide range of coffee drinks, including classic espressos, smooth pour-overs, and refreshing cold brews. Their knowledgeable baristas are always happy to help you choose the perfect drink to suit your taste. In addition to delicious coffee, the café offers a selection of pastries and light snacks, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
Freshly Ground at ITH Santa Barbara Beach Hostel
What’s more, guests at ITH Santa Barbara Beach Hostel can enjoy the delicious coffee from Santa Barbara Roasting Company right on-site as we sell their freshly ground coffee. This partnership allows hostel guests to experience the rich flavors and quality of this local favorite without having to venture far.
Dune Coffee Roasters
Dune Coffee Roasters is a popular coffee shop in Santa Barbara, known for its laid-back atmosphere and commitment to high-quality coffee. Located just a short walk from the beach, this café is a perfect spot to grab a drink and enjoy the coastal vibes.
At Dune Coffee Roasters, quality is key. They source their coffee beans from carefully selected farms around the world, focusing on sustainability and fair trade practices. The beans are roasted in small batches to ensure maximum freshness and flavor. The menu features a variety of coffee drinks, including classic espresso, pour-overs, and cold brews. Dune also offers seasonal specialty drinks that highlight unique flavors and ingredients.
Not only do they serve fantastic coffee, but they also have a tasty selection of pastries and light snacks, often featuring fresh baked goods from local bakeries. You can savor a flaky croissant, a wholesome granola bar, or a breakfast sandwich with your drink. The café takes pride in being an active part of the Santa Barbara community by hosting events like coffee tastings and workshops, creating a lively and creative space for everyone to enjoy.
Pura Vida Coffee Society
Pura Vida Coffee Society is a cozy coffee shop in Santa Barbara that focuses on providing high-quality coffee and a warm, friendly atmosphere. The name “Pura Vida” means “pure life” in Spanish, reflecting the café’s commitment to promoting a healthy and happy lifestyle through great coffee.
At Pura Vida, you can enjoy a variety of delicious coffee drinks, including classic espresso, creamy lattes, and refreshing cold brews. They prioritize sourcing their coffee beans from sustainable farms, ensuring that each cup is not only tasty but also supports farmers and their communities. The staff is knowledgeable and always ready to help you find the perfect drink to match your taste.
The café has a bright and inviting atmosphere, making it a great spot to relax, work, or meet friends. There’s plenty of seating, both indoors and outdoors, so you can enjoy your coffee in the sunshine or in a cozy corner. Pura Vida Coffee Society also offers a selection of tasty pastries and light snacks to complement your drink.
Lokum
Lokum is a delightful café in Santa Barbara known for its unique blend of coffee, Turkish delights, and warm hospitality. Inspired by Turkish culture, Lokum offers a cozy atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy a delicious drink.
The café specializes in high-quality coffee, including rich espressos and creamy lattes made from carefully sourced beans. In addition to coffee, Lokum features a variety of traditional Turkish delights, which are sweet, chewy confections in different flavors and colors. These treats pair perfectly with your coffee, making for a delightful experience.
Lokum also offers a selection of light snacks and pastries, providing options for a quick bite or a leisurely afternoon treat. The warm and welcoming ambiance makes it a great place to catch up with friends, study, or simply enjoy some quiet time with a book.
Lighthouse Coffee
Last but not least on our list of the best coffee shops in Santa Barbara is Lighthouse Coffee. Known for its friendly atmosphere, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a tasty cup of coffee.
At Lighthouse Coffee, you can choose from many different drinks made with high-quality coffee beans. Whether you like a strong espresso, a creamy latte, or a cold brew, there’s something for everyone. The staff is always happy to help you find the perfect drink for your taste.
Along with delicious coffee, Lighthouse Coffee offers a variety of pastries and light snacks. You can enjoy a buttery croissant or a healthy muffin with your drink. The café has comfortable seating, both inside and outside, making it a nice spot to meet friends, do some work, or just unwind with a book.
