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SHOPPING IN SANTA BARBARA | Shop at These Amazing Boutiques and Gift Shops

local shops in santa barbara

Santa Barbara is a shopper’s paradise, especially if you love to find unique items that you can’t find anywhere else. The city is full of one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques, as well as department stores and malls. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, gifts, or just a new outfit, you’re sure to find it in Santa Barbara. While they are endless shopping destinations in their dreamy SoCal reviera, we curate 15 independent local shops in Santa Barbara that have been a mainstay in the city’s identity for years. Enjoy shopping in Santa Barbara!

Some of the best shopping in Santa Barbara can be found on State Street, which is lined with a variety of shops and stores. If you’re looking for high-end designer labels, you’ll find them here, as well as more affordable stores and boutiques. There’s something for everyone on State Street.


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The Funk Zone is another great spot for shopping in Santa Barbara. This eclectic neighborhood is home to a number of art galleries, shops, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to find a unique gift or piece of art.

Paseo Nuevo is an open-air mall located in the heart of Santa Barbara. This mall features a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a movie theater. Paseo Nuevo is the perfect place to spend a day shopping, especially if you’re looking to escape the heat or the cold.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it while shopping in Santa Barbara. From high-end designer labels to unique gifts, there’s something for everyone in this shopper’s paradise.

Chaucer’s Books 

Chaucer’s Books | 3321 State Street, Santa Barbara CA 93105 | 805-682-6787

chaucersbooks.com
info@chaucersbooks.com

Chaucer’s Books, Santa Barbara’s beloved bookstore, has been a Santa Barbara institution for over 40 years, providing locals and visitors with an incredible selection of books, cards, puzzles, games, and gifts. Their knowledgeable and friendly staff are always happy to help you find exactly what you’re looking for or make recommendations based on your interests. Whether looking for the perfect beach read or the latest bestseller, Chaucer’s Books has you covered. Come visit us today and see what makes us Santa Barbara’s favorite bookstore!

independent local shops in santa barbara
Photo from Yelp

The State Street Promenade Market

between Carrillo and Figueroa streets every Thursday from 3:00 -7:30 PM

The State Street Promenade Market is a great place to shop for local goods, support businesses, and enjoy the company of others. There is also a variety of food options and live music or entertainment weekly. This makes for a perfect date night, family outing, or evening with friends! Check it out Thursdays from 5-9pm on State Street in front of the Paseo Nuevo Shopping Center.

Parker Clay

133 E Anapamu St, Santa Barbara
https://www.parkerclay.com

At Parker Clay, they believe that sustainable leather is more than just a product made with the environment in mind. They think every aspect of the production process — from sourcing to when it lands in your hands — should be done with quality craftsmanship and the highest ethical standards. They are proud to offer sustainable leather goods that our customers can be proud to own.

local shops in santa barbara

As a sustainable leather company, they are constantly working to improve their production process and support their artisans who create their wonderful products. They believe sustainable leather is a product that can be enjoyed for years to come, and they are committed to offering the best products possible. If you got any questions about sustainable leather or our products, please don’t hesitate to contact them. They would be happy to chat with you about sustainable leather and how we can help you make the most ethical choices for your wardrobe.

Lewis and Clark 

Lewis & Clark, a Central California shop founded in 1981 by Elizabeth and Lisa Reifel, specializes in selling collectibles, curios, antiques, jewelry, and household goods. Locals love the shop for its unique selection of items and friendly customer service.

Today, the shop is run by the second generation of family, with Elizabeth’s granddaughter Shannon at the helm. Shannon has carried on the tradition of offering exceptional customer service and a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.Lewis & Clark is proud to be a part of the historic downtown Clovis community and looks forward to many.

Lewis & Clark is the perfect place to find a unique gift for someone special. With a wide variety of items to choose from, you’re sure to find something that will make them smile. From Santa Barbara cookbooks and aprons to dishware and cards, there’s something for everyone at Lewis & Clark. After October, the store also becomes a one-stop Christmas shop, featuring a collection of hand-blown holiday ornaments. Don’t miss out on this incredible shopping experience!

Marcel Hemp

531 State Street Santa Barbara
https://marcelhemp.com

If you’re looking for natural fiber clothing that is stylish and eco-friendly, look no further than Marcel Hemp, one of the few local shops in Santa Barbara that integrate sustainability in its business model. Our clothing is made from sustainable materials and designed to last. We believe in Fair Trade practices and work hard to support the communities where our clothing is made. Our goal is to provide you with the highest quality clothing that you’ll love to wear, knowing that you’re also supporting a sustainable future.

Lovebird Boutique and Jewellery Bar

7 East De La Guerra St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 
805.568.3800
lovebirdsb.com

When you visit Santa Barbara, be sure to swing by Lovebird, a Santa Barbara boutique store that specializes in anything quaint! They have the best selection of casual and luxurious apparel, handmade jewelry, accessories and local art. You’re sure to find something that reflects your own personal style, and at an affordable price point.

Their store is located in the historic Presidio neighborhood in downtown Santa Barbara, and travelers and locals frequent this shop. In fact, it has been voted “Best Boutique” for five consecutive years by readers of the Santa Barbara Independent.

When they’re not busy running Lovebird, Nancy and Peter enjoy wine tasting, cooking and traveling.

The Shopkeepers

137 Anacapa St A, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
https://www.theshopkeepers-sb.com | +1 805-883-3122

The Shopkeepers, dubbed as the Newly Curious Goods for Curious People, is a great place to find unique and interesting items, whether you’re looking for clothing, accessories, or home decor. The store stocks a variety of brands, including Crosby, Gallery Department, Fat and the Moon, and Saltura. You can also find a selection of textiles from Africa. The shop has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with art on the walls and colorful rugs on the floor. There are also golden brown chairs scattered throughout the store. Whether you’re looking for a special gift or just something to treat yourself, you’re sure to find it at The Shopkeepers.

local shops in santa barbara

Folio Press and Paperie

Folio Press and Paperie, one of the few independent local shops in Santa Barbara, is a letterpress design studio and print shop located in Santa Barbara, CA. They specialize in creating beautiful, hand-printed stationery and paper goods. Their selection of retail items includes American-made products and gifts that are perfect for any occasion.

They believe in promoting a return to a slower, more reflective and tactile world. Their letterpress goods are printed on Heidleberg Windmill presses from the 1950s and 60s or our 1924 treadle-powered Chandler & Price platen press. They use antique wood and lead type, as well as retro icons, to create our unique designs.

All of our letterpress cards are packaged using compostable sleeves, so you can feel good about your purchase knowing that it is eco-friendly.

Heritage Goods and Supply

 5100 Carpinteria Ave, Carpinteria, CA 
https://heritagegoodsandsupply.com

 At Heritage Goods and Supply, they pride themselves on their unique selection of goods, which you can find herbal supply, specialty foods, animal feed, functional clothing and shoes and more! They also offer a variety of workshops in our space so that you can learn about all aspects of homesteading. Their goal is to help women explore, discover and learn new passions and skills so that they can incorporate homesteading into their everyday lives. They are more than willing to answer guests’ questions on homesteading!

Dylan Star

Funk Zone: 110 Anacapa St. Santa Barbara, Ca 93101 | 

Paseo Nuevo Mall: 317 Paseo Nuevo 

Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Dylan Star prides itself on its unique combination of convenience and intentionality, quality and affordability, and personal touch that seemingly gets lost in our increasingly digital age.

At Dylan Star, they believe in the EXPERIENCE of shopping, and everyone, regardless of their social status, student debt, shoe size, can feel about themselves.

Dream big. Shop small. Dylan Star is the perfect place to find fashionable clothing without breaking the bank. With a personal touch and a focus on quality, Dylan Star is sure to become your go-to spot for all things fashion. So what are you waiting for? Come on over and start shopping!

domecíl

The domecíl collection is all about bringing beauty into the home through everyday objects. They offer their own line of textiles and a curated collection of handmade objects for the home. All of their products are designed to be both beautiful and functional.

domecíl is all about supporting traditions and celebrating the thoughtfully made. They believe that everyone deserves to live in a home that is filled with beautiful things. domecíl is here to help make that happen.

Ace Revington

https://www.acerivington.com/

Ace Rivington is the perfect place to shop for all your denim needs. You’re sure to find the perfect pair of jeans with various styles and sizes. And with the SB Tour Monster Tee, you can support your favorite bars and restaurants. $10 from the sale of each t-shirt goes to tip Beau & his wife Yasmin’s favorite “Date Night” spots listed on the back of the tee.

Jake & Jones

https://jakeandjones.com

But what really sets Jake & Jones apart is the experience. The owners and staff are warm and welcoming, taking time to get to know their clients and offer a level of customer service that is genuinely personal. They host regular events like trunk shows, book signings, and in-store styling sessions, making shopping there feel more like hanging out with friends than anything else.

So whether you’re looking for a unique gift, a new outfit, or just a place to relax and have fun, Jake & Jones should be your go-to boutique in the Presidio District.

If you’re ever in the Presidio District, check out Jake & Jones boutique! They have a great selection of clothes, accessories, and home goods from independent designers. The staff is super friendly and always willing to help you find the perfect gift or style for your needs. They also host regular events like trunk shows, book signings, and styling sessions, so it’s always fun to hang out!


Check out our Santa Barbara Travel Guide to fully explore this gorgeous SoCal charm.


Wendy Foster 

If you’re in the market for high-end designer fashion, Wendy Foster is the place to go in Santa Barbara. The boutique carries classic shapes in luxury fabrics and seasonal pieces with a SoCal vibe. In addition to apparel, Wendy Foster also has an extensive selection of jewelry, scarves, handbags, scented candles, and lingerie. Plus, the store regularly puts items on sale, so you can snag designer duds at a fraction of the original price. Wendy Foster is conveniently located in downtown Santa Barbara’s Paseo Nuevo mall, near additional shopping, restaurants, parks, and movie theaters.

local shops in santa barbara

Asher Market

Asher Market is a lifestyle brand that is all about beautiful, practical finds from around the world. Their focus is on luxurious yet practical items like our alpaca yarn throws – which are machine washable! – and scarves and ponchos made of the same material. Their baby alpaca items are comparable to cashmere in their quality and softness, and are perfect for anyone who wants the best of both worlds.

Diani

Diani, a mainstay among the local shops in Santa Barbara, is the perfect place to find chic, stylish clothing and accessories from top designers. The store’s airy, well-curated racks are full of clothes from Isabel Marant, Mother, and Tome. You can also find a great selection of shoes at the Diani shoe boutique. And for the perfect finishing touch to your outfit, be sure to check out Diani Living. This store is devoted to beautiful home decor items from all over the world. Caroline Diani, the store’s owner, was born in Kenya and raised in England, so you can be sure that the merchandise reflects her global perspective.

The Blue Door

The Blue Door is the perfect place to find that one-of-a-kind piece for your home. Whether you’re looking for mid-century modern furniture or vintage clothing, we have something for everyone. We also offer a variety of services, including estate sales and consignment. They pride themselves on being a destination for both locals and tourists alike.}

{The Blue Door is more than just a store, it’s a community. They offer workshops and events that allow people to come together and learn new skills. They also host trunk shows and pop-ups featuring local artists and makers. If you’re ever in Santa Barbara, be sure to drop by and check out their amazing collection.

Jona of Backpacking with a Book

Hi there, I’m Jona, originally from Cebu, Philippines, had live in Hanoi, Vietnam, and now currently based in Munich, Germany. This blog used to house thoughts on life and books, but eventually it morphed into a travel blog. For collaborations, projects, and other things, please email me at backpackingwithabook@gmail.com. For essays, creative nonfiction, and others, find me elsewhere.

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1 Comment

  1. […] The best shopping in Santa Barbara is definitely downtown on State Street. The Spanish-style Paseo Nuevo outdoor mall is beautiful, with palm trees and fountains, and it’s always lively with shoppers browsing the boutiques and chain stores. There are also great cafés and restaurants here, perfect for people-watching. On Tuesday afternoons, don’t miss the Santa Barbara Farmers Market, where you can get fresh, locally grown produce. […]

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