GOLDEN SEASON ON THE COAST
As autumn settles over California’s coast, Santa Barbara and Montecito emerge in their most poetic light. The days grow softer, the air carries a hint of salt and citrus, and the hills glow in warm gold. It’s a season defined by quiet luxury—vineyard afternoons that fade into candlelit evenings, ocean horizons veiled in mist, and a slower rhythm that invites reflection and connection. Here, fall isn’t just a change in weather—it’s a return to the art of savoring life along the coast.
This guide is your curated calendar of autumn’s finest moments—a handpicked collection of experiences that capture the heart of Santa Barbara and Montecito. From vineyard tastings and candlelit concerts to farm dinners and seaside gatherings, each event reflects the effortless elegance and warmth of California in its golden season. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or seeking inspiration close to home, let this be your guide to the art of living beautifully this fall.
Santa Ynez Wine Tour
From October 7–31, 2025, visitors can experience the best of the Santa Ynez Valley with private tastings at Grimm’s Bluff and discounted tours through Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours, celebrating the region’s vibrant vineyards and scenic charm. Just moments away, 1620 Westerly captures that same elegance—an iconic Tuscan-inspired villa in the prestigious Happy Canyon surrounded by 200 acres of vineyards, equestrian grounds, and breathtaking views. Together, these moments reveal why Santa Ynez is more than a destination—it’s a lifestyle.
Pruning California Native Plants
October 25, 2025 | 9–11 AM | Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Pruning California Native Plants is a hands-on workshop led by horticulture expert Keith Nevison. Participants will explore practical techniques for cultivating and maintaining thriving native gardens. That same connection to the land is reflected at 670 Hot Springs Road in Montecito—a tranquil coastal retreat surrounded by lush gardens, winding stone paths, and sweeping ocean and mountain views. Both celebrate California’s natural elegance and effortless harmony with the landscape.
Majorelle Saturday Sessions
October 25, 2025 | 11 AM–12 PM | Majorelle: Saturday Sessions – Pilates Stretch with Victoria Popoff
The Majorelle Saturday Sessions at Hotel Californian offer a complimentary Pilates stretch class led by fitness expert Victoria Popoff, combining strength, flow, and deep flexibility. Set beside the luxurious Majorelle Spa, this energizing wellness experience invites guests to move, reset, and unwind in true Santa Barbara style.
Photo Credit: Hotel Californian
Tales and Tonics
October 30–31, 2025 | 6–10 PM | The Manor Bar
The Co-Author Cocktail Series at The Manor Bar transforms the venue into a darkly enchanting space inspired by the Brothers Grimm, featuring a collaboration with Boston’s acclaimed Hecate bar. Guests can enjoy imaginative, spooky-themed cocktails and haunting vinyl beats for a night of mystery and allure.
Photo Credit: Rosewood Miramar
Skulls + Skylines
November 1, 2025 | 5–9 PM | Hotel Californian
Skulls + Skylines transforms Día de los Muertos into a high-energy rooftop celebration with skyline views, DJ sets, and cocktails featuring Evil Bean Cold Brew Liquor and El Mexicano Tequila. Guests are invited to dance under the stars, embrace bold looks, and toast to the night in true Santa Barbara style.
Photo Credits: Camp Digital, Hotel Californian
Behind the Scenes at Pritzlaff
November 6, 2025 | 2–3:30 PM | Pritzlaff Conservation Center
Garden members are invited to an exclusive tour led by Executive Director Steve Windhager, Ph.D., offering rare access to the center’s labs and herbarium collection. Set amid Mission Canyon’s natural beauty, the event celebrates design, preservation, and harmony with the land—qualities echoed at 1360 E Mountain Drive, a timeless Marc Appleton–designed estate where oak-shaded grounds and refined architecture embody the perfect balance of nature and elegance.
Ritz-Carlton Wine Auction
November 8, 2025 | 5:30–7:30 PM | Ritz-Carlton Bacara Ballroom
The Santa Barbara Wine Auction at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara is a weekend of exquisite wines, gourmet dinners by top chefs, and vibrant auctions — all set against the stunning Gaviota Coast. This glamorous event unites vintners, philanthropists, and wine lovers to raise money for Direct Relief and local health causes, blending good times with purpose in true Santa Barbara style.
Photo Credit: Ritz-Carlton
Santa Barbara Half Marathon
The Santa Barbara Half Marathon invites participants to run scenic courses along Cabrillo Boulevard and State Street, offering a half marathon, 5K, and kids’ fun run. The event concludes with a festive celebration featuring live music and local vendors in the Funk Zone.
Photo Credit: The Santa Barbara Half Marathon
Coast Village Week
November 12–18, 2023 | Coast Village Road
Coast Village Week brings Montecito’s Coast Village Road to life with exclusive events, trunk shows, live art, and gourmet experiences. The celebration culminates in a weekend of pop-ups, specials, and community festivities that embody Montecito’s signature charm.
Photo Credit: Visit Santa Barbara
Charity Gala at Rosewood Miramar Beach
November 29, 2025 | 10 AM–2 PM | Rosewood Miramar
St. Vincent’s 15th Annual Fashion Show & Luncheon at Rosewood Miramar Beach promises a glamorous day of high fashion, philanthropy, and seaside elegance, complete with a silent auction and gourmet luncheon. All proceeds support the Family Strengthening Program, empowering local mothers and children to build bright futures.
