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As summertime rolls around and the season of sun, no school, and fun approaches, Santa Barbara offers many summer activity options for students. Here is a full guide to some of the most popular and lesser-known ways to spend your summer.
Courthouse movies
The past couple of summers, a favorite around town has been the Sunken Gardens Film Series presented by Arts and Lectures. Every summer at the beloved Santa Barbara landmark, the Courthouse, themed movie nights take place every Friday night from July to August. Locals gather, set up blankets, and fill the grassy space with food and life, enjoying quality time. Mrs. Bryan, SBHS librarian, when asked about her favorite part of the Sunken Gardens Film Series, shared, “I love the crazy crowds and the nighttime fun vibe. I also love picnicking beforehand.”
This year’s movie theme has not been announced yet, but keep an eye on the Santa Barbara Office of Arts and Culture website for the theme and official movie guide.
Thrift shopping
With clothes getting more expensive by the day, a summer full of thrifting may be the answer for big shoppers. Santa Barbara and Goleta have a variety of thrift stores. Old Town Goleta has several thrift stores lining the street. A favorite for junior Sofia Turenchalk is the Destined For Grace thrift store, off of Hollister Ave. “There are so many stores off of Hollister. Destined For Grace is a great one. They even have two locations.” Turenchalk said. Other than Goleta, down on State Street in the center of town, Crossroads Trading Co. is a well-known consignment store where people can bring clothes to sell and purchase. Though it can be considered on the pricier side of second-hand shopping, it can be a great place to exchange.
Butterflies Alive! – A fun immersive experience
The Natural History Museum provides dozens of exhibits that tell the story of Santa Barbara and immerse museum-goers in nature. The museum’s limited-time Butterflies Alive! The exhibit is a fan favorite during the summertime. This exhibit lets people of all ages be in an enclosed space with a variety of live butterflies and is extremely family-friendly. In space, locals can spend as much time as they want observing the butterflies. This exhibit is open from May through September 7. It is a must-visit for tourists and locals alike!
Sand, Ocean, and fun in the sun!
A well-known staple in town during the summer months is the beach. The ocean and the sand, embody what summer truly is. In town, there are varying opinions on the best beaches.“In my opinion, East Beach is the best beach because there is always parking.” Eva Jane Zackrison, a Santa Barbara local, shared her favorite beach when asked. For dog lovers, Hendry’s Beach may be the spot. With an off-leash and on-leash section, dog owners can let their dogs run up and down the beach without worry.
Santa Barbara offers many opportunities and activities for locals to have fun. These are just a few ways that SBHS students can enjoy their time away from school. Will this 2026 summer be a summer full of fun?
