Walk With Me

January 23, 2022

The Side Streets and Alleyways of Upper Oak Park

Years ago, my first real walk around a Santa Barbara neighborhood—beyond the usual spots—was in the area behind Cottage Hospital, and I was delighted by what I found. When I recently returned for a stroll, I wondered if the area would still deliver. 11

December 29, 2021

Quintessential Montecito at Butterfly Beach

While the shoreline is the indisputable star of the Butterfly Beach area, there's plenty more worth exploring—including the Music Academy of the West's splendid campus and drop-dead gorgeous Santa Barbara Cemetery. 5

November 25, 2021

Mixing Business and Pleasure in East Beach

The East Beach neighborhood has two totally different personalities: the east side of Milpas is primarily residential and hotels, while the west side tends toward the commercial and industrial—and is far funkier than the Funk Zone. 6

October 27, 2021

It’s Only Milpas Street (But I Like It)

While Milpas is unlikely to be anyone's favorite street, it sure has a piquant sense of place—not to mention a wide variety of independent businesses, some cute houses, and a mystery at the northern end. (Update: According to comments on Instagram, I was dead wrong about it not being anyone's favorite.) 10

September 23, 2021

An Aimless Wander Through Hidden Valley

Wedged between Hope Ranch and Las Positas is a neighborhood that feels like its own little world. 4

August 8, 2021

Voyage to the Heart of the San Roque Spider Web

What lies at the center of Argonne Circle? Not much, actually. But getting there was fun. 3

July 14, 2021

Where the Streets Have Full Names

Pinched between the airport and Highway 101 is an industrial area that benefits from the kind of closer inspection that only walking can provide. 4

June 16, 2021

Once Upon a Time in the Hedgerow…

The most adorable neighborhood in greater Santa Barbara, and possibly the entire Central Coast, is the Hedgerow in Montecito. With narrow lanes, lush landscaping, and scrumptious houses, it's like something out of a fairy tale. 8

April 26, 2021

On the Golden Slope of Eucalyptus Hill

The southern side of Eucalyptus Hill is home to the area's nicest streets—Cima Linda Lane, Summit Road, and Rametto Road. Ready for some good housepeeking? 2

March 10, 2021

The Past Is Still Present in Old Town Goleta

Layers of history are visible everywhere, both on Hollister Avenue and the side streets. When was the last time you saw a sign for S&H Green Stamps? 8