Summerland

With its unique history and beautiful location next door to Montecito, Summerland is one of Santa Barbara County’s sparkling little gems. Harry L. Williams founded Summerland decades ago as a place to pursue his interest in the supernatural. Like-minded citizens soon followed him and the town was born. Not long after the town was born, oil was discovered beneath its soil and just offshore.

Fortunately, as the oil supply played out, the land was allowed to return to its former lush beauty. What remains is a petite, extraordinary, unparalleled village.

Polo, the sport of royalty, is played regularly at the nearby Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, while antique hunters enjoy the many shops along Summerland’s lovely Lillie Avenue. Pristine Summerland Beach invites long walks or a cooling dip in the Pacific.

This laid-back town of only 1,500 residents also offers flip-flop and family-friendly restaurants, and beautiful beachside Lookout Park, featuring expansive lawns, play areas and direct access to the beach. Summerland is home to artists, writers and part-time residents seeking a cozy cottage or spacious getaway nestled on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands.