A guide to savoring the American Riviera in its golden season
Fall is a magical time in Santa Barbara—the summer crowds and weather cool down, the air turns crisp in the evenings, and the golden glow of the sun transforms the city into something truly special. Wineries celebrate the harvest, farmers’ markets abound with seasonal bounty like apples, pears and winter squash, pumpkin patches open for family fun, and artisans showcase their coziest autumn wares.
From wine country adventures to coastal strolls, pumpkin patches to art walks, here’s our list of the top 10 must-do experiences this fall—best discovered with a stylish stay at The Riviera Beach House, where the very best of Santa Barbara is at your doorstep.
1. Sip and Stroll the Funk Zone
There’s no better season to wander Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone. Autumn afternoons are perfect for lingering at tasting rooms like Margerum, Riverbench, and Muni Wines. Pair your sips with bites from local favorites such as Santo Mezcal, Loquita and Lucky Penny, and don’t forget to pop into the artisan boutiques along the way.
2. Embrace Your Adventurous Side
Autumn is for exploration. Take a guided horseback ride along the beach or hop in a 4x4 for a private jeep tour through the rolling vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley. Better yet, take a day trip to Los Olivos or Solvang to celebrate harvest season in wine country, where grape stomps, new vintages, and fall festivals await.
3. Cruise the Coast on Two (or Four) Wheels
Fall’s mild weather is perfect for a ride. Borrow a Riviera Beach House cruiser and pedal the Cabrillo Bike Path, or upgrade your adventure with a rental from Wheels of Fun: choose a four-wheeler for a playful group ride or an e-bike tour to cover more ground with ease.
4. Discover Local Art and Makers
Santa Barbara’s creative spirit shines in the fall. Explore galleries in the Funk Zone–including our in-house satellite location of the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara, and peruse the Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show, a weekly open-air tradition that stretches for blocks along ocean-facing Cabrillo Boulevard every Sunday. It’s the perfect way to take home a one-of-a-kind piece of the Riviera lifestyle.
5. Vintage and Antique Shopping
Cooler days call for treasure hunting. Head to the Funk Zone’s Blue Door for curated antiques and design finds, or explore boutiques like Loveworn and The Vintage Fox. From mid-century furniture to eclectic fashion, fall is the season for stylish discoveries.
6. Explore the Santa Barbara Zoo
For family fun, the Santa Barbara Zoo never disappoints. With over 500 animals, ocean views, and seasonal events, including Boo at the Zoo in October, it’s a must for little explorers and grown-ups alike.
7. Taste the Season at Local Markets
Fall flavors shine at the Santa Barbara Farmers Market. Browse fresh produce, local honey, artisanal bread, and fragrant lavender on Tuesdays and Saturdays. For a savory twist, head to the Santa Barbara Fish Market for the day’s catch.
8. Take a Golf Cart Tour Around Town
See the city from a new perspective with a golf cart tour (yes, they exist!). Cruise through downtown, along the waterfront, and into charming neighborhoods at a leisurely pace—fun, easy, and effortlessly Santa Barbara.
9. Celebrate Fall Festivals
From the California Avocado Festival in nearby Carpinteria to the Vintners Festival and the Santa Barbara Harbor & Seafood Festival, fall brings a lineup of lively events that highlight the best of the Central Coast. For Halloween spirit, drive north to Santa Ynez for their annual Scarecrow Fest and join the locals in celebrating the season.
10. Pick the Perfect Pumpkin
Round out your Santa Barbara fall getaway with a classic: pumpkin picking. Lane Farms Pumpkin Patch is a local favorite, offering hayrides, corn mazes, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. It’s the perfect stop for families—or anyone young at heart.