Mesa

The Mesa is ideal for forever home investments.

Welcome to The Mesa

Eclectic beach town with universal appeal

It’s hard not to love The Mesa. If The Mesa neighborhood of Santa Barbara had to be defined in three words, it’d be, “close-knit, coastal community.” Composed of three interior districts—East Mesa, West Mesa, and Alta Mesa—this neighborhood is largely defined by its proximity to the coast, its plethora of public parks, and its affluent, involved community members. This established neighborhood is beloved by its residents, and homes are frequently purchased to own for decades. While this can create a more competitive real estate market, The Mesa is ideal for forever home investments.

What to Love

  • Charismatic Mediterranean architecture
  • Mature trees along quiet streets
  • Stunning, accessible beaches
  • Laid-back, college town vibe
  • Family-friendly neighborhood
  • Highly acclaimed schools

People & Lifestyle

Because The Mesa is nestled along the Pacific Coast, it is a dream for beachgoers and nature lovers. The area is home to several hip eateries, and the Santa Barbara City College attracts a younger crowd that fuels local boutique diners and retailers. A mix of young scholars and established professionals give texture to the community’s demographic, and it is a very comfortable place to raise a family with some of the area’s top-rated schools.

Dining, Entertaining, & Shopping

The Mesa residents have no shortage of innovative restaurants. Vegetarians flock to Mesa Verde, the area’s go-to dining destination for plant-based meals. This rustic eatery has a menu packed with locally-sourced, farm-fresh ingredients so that you can feel good about the food you eat. Rose Cafe is one of Santa Barbara’s favorite Mexican restaurants, and it has been a staple in the area since the 1940s.

Although The Mesa’s nightlife scene is relatively subdued, there are a few places to grab drinks. Sip inventive signature cocktails at Alcazar Tapas Bar or head to Corner Tap for a bite and check out their robust beer menu. 

Lazy Acres Market is an upscale, organic grocery with an emphasis on natural goods and pure ingredients. This small grocery chain consists of only five locations, and it maintains the feel of a neighborhood market while carrying elevated goods. Here, you’ll find local wineries reflected in the extensive wine selection, eco-friendly products, and fresh produce from Bristol Farms.

Things to Do

It’s no secret that The Mesa is surrounded by natural beauty, and there is a myriad of ways to get outside and enjoy it. Douglas Family Preserve is 70-acres of public land that was secured by the Trust for Public Lands in 1996. This pristine, untouched land is ideal for hiking, dog-walking, and bicycling as long as you stay on the beaten path. The Mesa is home to plenty of usable urban green spaces in addition to its immaculately conserved land. Eling’s Park is the perfect destination for bike rides, a pick-up game of baseball, or an afternoon picnic. As its name suggests, Shoreline Park overlooks the ocean, and its grassy knolls are excellent for walking and running, and kids will love the on-site playground. Plus, maintained staircases lead down the bluffs from the park to the beach for easy access to the sand.  If you're looking to raise your heart rate and enjoy a family friendly evening out, check out Nite Moves.  Choose between a 1km swim or 3.5 mile run, beginners may sign up for  500meter swim or 1 mile run, and for the kids a 1 mile run or Soft Sand Sprint for young children.  Nite Moves runs through the summer months, every Wednesday. 

Schools

In addition to being home to Santa Barbara City College, the Mesa has many renowned primary school educational facilities. Schools in The Mesa neighborhood are served by The Santa Barbara Unified School District, and a few of the most distinguished facilities include:

  • Washington Elementary School, K-6
  • McKinley Elementary School, K-6
  • Monroe Elementary School, TK-6
  • Olive Grove Charter School, K-12



WORK WITH Maureen

Maureen has been around the industry for a lifetime. Her business is based on the core values and ethics taught to her at a very young age: integrity, honesty, and great communication.

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