The 2025 Shop-Local Gift Guide, Part 3

The best gifts come from the heart—and from local independent shops like Folio Press & Paperie, Game Seeker, Jake and Jones Menswear & Objects, Satellite, The Eddy, and The Warbler. So get out there and go shopping! 4

Supersize Spec Compound South of the Freeway

Noteworthy new listings also include a fixer on Eucalyptus Hill; Riviera ranch house with potential; contemporary spec reno above N. Patterson Avenue; one of those East Mesa houses elevated off the street; 1923 cottage in the Bungalow Haven District; West Beach landmark; and more. 2

Your All-Access Pass to Life in the Funk Zone—Now Reduced to $1,749,000

Wake up in the Funk Zone and step into a lifestyle where creativity, flavor, and curiosity infuse every corner. You’re not just buying a home—you’re unlocking a way of living that invites you to wander, taste, and explore every day.

Pressing Pause on the Redevelopment of Paseo Nuevo

Other recent news: Milpas Street Holiday Parade canceled due to deportation fears; king tides return today; cannabis shop not opening on Santa Claus Lane; Sable Offshore Corporation is trying another tack; the tree of the month. 4

Montecito Upper Village Bohemian Luxe Estate

Down a private lane is one of Montecito’s most imaginative private retreats—a one-acre wonderland where architecture, artistry, and maximalist expression coexist in rare harmony. It's like having your own exclusive resort, a place for friends and family to gather, just minutes from the Upper Village.

Inside the New, Mostly Vegan Corner Market Downtown

More food news: A free drink for local nonprofit employees; the menu at Noe's Cafe, now open across from the courthouse; the story of Lucky Penny's facade; anyone know the Chick-fil-A franchisee?; Funk Zone development will now have six food-and-beverage outlets; Bistro Amasa's recipe for roasted carrots; White Caps in Summerland plans to start over from the ground up; State Street Asian restaurant rebrands. 9

Newsletter: December 3

The Siteline newsletter is the best way to follow the website. To subscribe, click the link at the bottom of this post. And you can unsubscribe at any time.

How to Celebrate the Holidays in Santa Barbara

While Santa Barbara is not a winter wonderland in the traditional sense, we still have many terrific ways to make merry memories—including a European-inspired market, ice skating, photos with Santa, special performances, and glittery pop-ups for gathering with friends.

The 2025 Shop-Local Gift Guide, Part 2

Shopping online is boring! Shopping in person is fun! Go find great things for the people you care about at our many terrific independent stores. In this edition: Diani, Folly, Lighthouse Skate Shop, Field Trip, and The Crafter's Library.

Santa Barbara Might Tighten Restrictions on Single-Use Plastics

The City Council will weigh new rules regarding plastic carry-out bags at grocery stores, Mylar balloons, plastic and Mylar confetti, and small "disposable" water bottles. Moreover, restaurants would have to use reusable foodware for food and beverages consumed on site. 13