Dive into Labor Day
Labor Day weekend might mark the close of summer in other places, but in Santa Barbara and Montecito, poolside living is a year-round way of life. From hillside retreats to oceanfront escapes, these pools highlight the setting, dining, and lifestyle that define the Central Coast. Here are a few worth a dip.
Belmond El Encanto
Set high in the hills of the Santa Barbara Riviera, this iconic hotel combines timeless glamour with some of the city’s most breathtaking views.
• THE SETTING: An infinity-edge pool overlooking the coastline, Downtown Santa Barbara, and the Channel Islands.
• WHAT TO EAT: Signature ahi tuna tartare, fresh ceviche, and crisp local rosé from Santa Barbara County vineyards.
• WHAT WE LOVE: Late afternoons, when the city lights sparkle and the mountains turn golden.
Hotel Californian
At the edge of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone and steps from State Street, this rooftop pool brings together ocean, mountains, and city energy.
• THE SETTING: Rooftop vantage point with harbor, mountain, and red-tiled rooftop views unique to Santa Barbara.
• WHAT TO EAT: Mezze platters, grilled prawns, and pitchers of sangria perfect for sharing.
• WHAT WE LOVE: Sunset and location! It's when the poolside crowd, harbor views, and Santa Barbara energy come together, and a pool day rolls into an evening out.
Rosewood Miramar Beach
Just steps from the sand on Montecito’s Miramar Beach, this luxury resort offers two distinct pool experiences — one lively and one serene.
• THE SETTING: The family-friendly Cabana Pool and the sophisticated, adults-only Manor Pool.
• WHAT TO EAT: Sushi rolls from Miramar Beach Bar, wood-fired flatbreads, and signature drinks.
• WHAT WE LOVE: The seamless transition from poolside lounging to beach cocktails along Montecito’s shoreline.
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara
A picturesque setting on the Goleta bluffs just north of Santa Barbara, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara is a dramatic oceanfront resort where pools, spa, and shoreline connect seamlessly.
• THE SETTING: Tiered pools cascading toward the Pacific with uninterrupted ocean views.
• WHAT TO EAT: Baja-style fish tacos, shrimp ceviche, and handcrafted margaritas.
• WHAT WE LOVE: Spending a long holiday weekend drifting between poolside cabanas, the spa, and coastal breezes.
Resort Style Living at Home
These Montecito and Santa Barbara properties with pools bring resort-style living to your own backyard.
• 220 Montecito Ranch Lane: Expansive coastline views frame the spa, pool, and cabana, creating a true resort-style retreat.
• 2125 Birnam Wood Drive: A reimagined estate with a pool overlooking the golf course, set against a peaceful backdrop of mountain views.
• 1465 E Mountain Drive: Iconic hillside retreat featuring a resort-style pool and spa with sweeping vistas across Montecito and the Pacific.
What Happened in Montecito Last Week?
August 17th – August 23rd
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Celebrate Labor Day Weekend in Santa Barbara & Montecito
Labor Day weekend in Santa Barbara and Montecito is the perfect time to enjoy the Central Coast’s signature mix of sunshine, culture, and coastal charm.
Labor Day Weekend Events in Santa Barbara & Montecito
Southern Brunch Pop-Up at Kimpton Canary & Finch & Fork
• Start your holiday weekend in downtown Santa Barbara with a festive Southern-style rooftop brunch. Enjoy chicken and waffles, gumbo, bottomless mimosas, and a live DJ.
Saturday, August 31, 11 AM–2 PM | Downtown Santa Barbara
Rosewood Miramar Beach Labor Day Celebration
Celebrate in Montecito at the Rosewood Miramar Beach with live entertainment, lawn games, water activities, and a signature Coastal Cookout right on the sand.
Saturday, August 31 | Miramar Beach, Montecito
Labor Day Party at Fox Wine Co. in the Funk Zone
Sip local Santa Barbara wine while dancing to 90s Hip-Hop and R&B from LA’s DJ Bova. This Funk Zone patio party is one of the most vibrant nightlife events of the weekend.
Saturday, August 31 | Santa Barbara Funk Zone
Annual Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show
A long-standing Santa Barbara tradition, this open-air show features handcrafted works by local artisans along Cabrillo Boulevard, steps from Stearns Wharf and East Beach.
Sunday, September 1 | Santa Barbara Waterfront
Swim to the Historic Miramar Raft
A beloved Montecito tradition, swim out to the historic wooden raft anchored just offshore at Miramar Beach. A nostalgic and family-friendly way to savor summer by the coast.
Available all weekend | Miramar Beach, Montecito
