The fencing has been removed from around East Beach’s Cabrillo Pavilion after a years-long renovation. Not only does that allow for a closer look at the building, you can also peek inside some of the windows.
But first, some history from the pavilion’s website, which also has neat old photos here: “Built just one year after the 1925 earthquake that transformed the look of our city, the Cabrillo Pavilion was designed by Royland Sauter and E. Keith Lockard and funded by local philanthropist David Gray. In 1927, Gray donated the Pavilion to the City of Santa Barbara, with the stipulation that the building be self-sustaining, and that it should be used for park and recreation purposes, providing a community resource open to all.”
Now, a quick loop around the exterior. Pedestrians can finally walk on the south side of Cabrillo without being forced into the street.
Note the piercings, an elegant method of deterring skateboarders:
And a sign that makes one worry about how hard the building is going to get ridden:
If the whole project is news to you, here’s an explanation of what it’ll offer when it opens: “The Pavilion’s downstairs level, right on the beach, offers access to its state-of-the-art fitness room, locker rooms, showers, and a multi-purpose room available for community activities ranging from fitness classes to corporate meetings. The upstairs level is one of Santa Barbara’s only beachfront venues. Accommodating 215 guests, the Pavilion’s entry lounge, expansive open-plan event space, two outdoor terraces, and panoramic ocean views make for an idyllic location for truly memorable weddings and special events.” According to a sign posted on a door, the facility will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. These are the fitness rates:
What I saw through the windows:
The pavilion website now has photos, including the one below, of the upstairs event space. Event rates are also online, and if you’re interested, you can book a tour.
There are barriers in front of the windows of La Sirena, the restaurant from the company behind the Beachcomber at Crystal Cove in Orange County, so it will have to wait. The bathrooms, however, are open, which is certainly handy news. I neglected to check whether the water fountains work.
Lastly, another walk around the perimeter to scope out various other services:
I’ve reached out to the city’s Parks and Recreation Department to see if an opening date is imminent.
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