SPRING ALONG THE COAST
Spring arrives softly along the California coast. The hills beyond Montecito turn a fresh shade of green, gardens begin to bloom, and longer days carry a warmth that invites life outdoors. Mornings begin with coffee along Coast Village Road or walks through flowering paths, while afternoons stretch toward the ocean, gentle breezes, and the easy rhythm of the season settling in.
Across the coast, spring unfolds through a calendar of garden gatherings, wine tastings, cultural performances, and coastal traditions. From peaceful moments in blooming landscapes to lively evenings in the city’s theaters and courtyards, these events capture the spirit of the season and offer countless ways to enjoy spring along the American Riviera.
Spring Whale Watching
March - May | Santa Barbara Harbor
Each spring, Pacific gray whales migrate through the Santa Barbara Channel on their journey north to Alaska. Local excursions depart daily from the harbor, offering the chance to see whales, dolphins, and sea lions against the backdrop of the Channel Islands.
Tai Chi at the Garden
April 3 | 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden hosts a morning Tai Chi session on the Island View Lawn led by instructor Master Yun. Set among native landscapes and canyon views, the class introduces traditional Tai Chi movements while offering a peaceful way to begin the day surrounded by nature.
Easter at Rosewood Mirmar Beach
April 5 | Rosewood Miramar Beach - Montecito
Easter Sunday at the Miramar is a cherished spring tradition. The resort hosts oceanfront brunch, seasonal menus, and family festivities across the Great Lawn, including Miramar’s signature Easter egg hunt overlooking the Pacific.
Wine & Fire On the Road
April 18 | 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Santa Barbara Historical Museum
Winemakers from the acclaimed Sta. Rita Hills gather for an afternoon of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir tastings paired with wood-fired cuisine in the courtyard of the Santa Barbara Historical Museum.
Santa Barbara Polo Matches
April - May | Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club
Spring marks the return of polo season at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club. Guests gather on the lawn with picnics and champagne while watching matches unfold against sweeping views of the Santa Ynez Mountains.
En Plein Air Art Class at Lotusland
May 2 | Lotusland
Lotusland hosts an En Plein Air painting class where artists of all levels gather in the gardens to paint outdoors, drawing inspiration from the estate’s landscapes and rare botanical collections.
Coastal Kayaking
Spring Season | Santa Barbara Harbor
Spring offers ideal conditions for kayaking along the coast. Rentals and guided trips from Santa Barbara Adventure Company allow paddlers to explore kelp forests, marine wildlife, and views of the Channel Islands.
I Madonnari Street Painting Festival
May 23 -25 | Old Mission Santa Barbara
Each spring, artists transform the pavement outside the Old Mission into vibrant chalk murals during the I Madonnari Street Painting Festival. Visitors can stroll the grounds as the artwork comes to life while enjoying food, music, and the relaxed atmosphere beneath the mission’s gardens and bell towers.
Sunset Sailing
Spring Season | Santa Barbara Harbour
Longer spring evenings make sunset sailing along the coast especially memorable. Local charters depart from the harbor for relaxed cruises past Stearns Wharf and along the coastline, offering sweeping views of the Santa Ynez Mountains as the sun sets over the Pacific.
Photo Credits
Santa Barbara Whale Watch. Darling Harbour: Tai Chi in the Garden. Rosewood Miramar Beach. Decanter: Sta Rita Hills: California’s ‘coolest’ wines plus the 10 to try. Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club: Cabanas. Santa Barbara Adventure Company. Lotusland: National Review. Adventure Sea Caves Kayak Tour. I Madonnari Street Painting Festival: Cheryl Guthrie & Terri Taber. Santa Barbara Sailing
