The Riviera community in Santa Barbara gets its name from the French Riviera.
European style on the California coast
The Riviera community in Santa Barbara gets its name from the French Riviera, and this American emulation of European sophistication is rich with sweeping estates, winding streets, and priceless views. Nestled between the Mission and Sycamore Canyons, The Riviera’s landscape is reminiscent of the Mediterranean coast of France and Italy, and this hillside neighborhood hosts highly sought-after properties that rarely change hands and are purchased by enthusiastic buyers who envision becoming long-time residents. Many of these classic estates were built as early as the 1920s and flaunt an antiquated Spanish Revival architectural style. Due to its high altitude, this neighborhood benefits from the unexpected benefit of sitting high above the rest of Santa Barbara and avoiding the morning marine layer that gives early summer the nickname “June Gloom;” residents can soak up Vitamin D all day long. Alameda Padre Serra splits The Riviera into upper and lower sections, each with a distinct flair of their own.
Life in this esteemed and established neighborhood in Santa Barbara replicates the prestige of Mediterranean living. Family-owned local establishments attract frequent customers and familiar faces. Long-term residents, often a mix of young professionals and retirees, build meaningful, lifelong relationships with neighbors. Homes in The Riviera are perched in the mountains and boast remarkable views of the oceanfront and the Channel Islands or the Santa Ynez mountains to the north.
The Riviera’s proximity to downtown Santa Barbara makes it simple to find unique eateries you’ll love nearby. Bossie’s Kitchen is a Santa Barbara favorite that resides in a historic Streamline Moderne building on the corner of Canon Perdido and Milpas Street. You’ll recognize it instantly by the white plaster cow mounted atop the roof. Long known as “Old Bossy,” the cow is a holdover from the building’s early days, added by previous owners shortly after building construction finished in 1939. Now, Bossie’s Kitchen is serving up elevated homestyle American comfort food with an emphasis on farm-fresh ingredients. Other nearby fares that are local favorites include authentic Mexican cuisine at Los Agaves and The Shop Kitchen’s brunch specialties. You'll also find the El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel in the heart of the Riviera close by to the Riviera Theatre. The El Encanto boasts many dining options, ranging from afternoon teas to farm fresh entrees in The Dining Room.
Although The Riviera is primarily a residential neighborhood, there are still plenty of ways to fill your days. Catch a flick at historic Riviera Theatre for date night or attend the acclaimed Santa Barbara International Film Festival. Live music at the Santa Barbara Bowl is an unforgettable experience. This 4,562 seat amphitheater is an outdoor concert venue that brings top-billed artists to the Riviera in an intimate setting.
Take advantage of The Riviera’s temperate weather and sunny skies by heading outdoors. Orpet Park along Alameda Padre Serra is a stunning city park carved out of the cliffside where you can enjoy the grassy knolls and sunshine with an afternoon picnic. For a reflective morning walk, Franceschi Park is a local gem in the upper Riviera. This small urban green space boasts some of the neighborhood’s finest views, and it is less frequently trafficked than some of the other parks, making it perfect for a quiet stroll before the marine layer burns off the harbor below by midday. Looking for another hidden gem? The Riviera is full of them! Between 421 and 417 Padre Street you'll find a hidden public paseo signified by 4 stone stairs and a handrail. After enjoying the numerous parks, learn more about Santa Barbara history at the Mission. Be sure to check out their website for up to date information regarding closures as it is still an active parish and tour offerings. Find more on Old Mission Santa Barbara.
The Riviera boasts several stunning school facilities, both in the public and private sectors. By providing the community with several prestigious options, families can confidently decide which school best fits their student. A few of The Riviera’s most notable educational institutions include:
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