Local Lowdown: Strolling Santa Claus Lane

A-Frame Surf Shop, photo by Mercedes Lowe.

A-Frame Surf Shop, photo by Mercedes Lowe.

A beachside street dubbed Santa Claus Lane—named after the iconic statue of St. Nick that greeted visitors for more than 50 years, until it was moved in 2002—boasts epicurean delights and local wines, plus a tranquil garden to while away the hours at Garden Market, while Padaro Beach Grill is a great spot for kids and dogs to play while you sit outside, enjoy the ocean view and peruse a tasty menu of burgers, salads, sandwiches and fish specialties.

ZeBird Design, photo by Mercedes Lowe.

ZeBird Design, photo by Mercedes Lowe.

Shopping in the area includes surf-inspired fashions—along with surf lessons and boards for the intrepid consumer—at A-Frame Surf Shop. Original artwork plus a design and consign business make ZeBird Design an ever-evolving treasure trove for the fashionable home, while interior design enthusiasts flock to the contemporary-rustic home furnishings at Porch, “where shelter and nature converge” into distinct art, as well as home accessories and furniture.

Hummingbird, photo by Mercedes Lowe.

Hummingbird, photo by Mercedes Lowe.

Thoughtful gifts, eclectic accessories and bohemian jewelry await lucky treasure seekers a few shops down at Hummingbird, while Rowan Boutique embodies the casual elegance of the Santa Barbara lifestyle with clothing and accessories.

Santa may be gone, but the shopping scene is alive and well on his namesake street in Carpinteria. Tucked just south of Montecito, amid the soothing sounds of the sea—and occasional toots from the train—the eclectic Santa Claus Lane is home to an impressive variety of charming storefronts.

All stores are located between 3765 and 3825 Santa Claus Lane, Carpinteria.

Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in the Summer 2017 issue of Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine.