Discover Unique Santa Barbara Gift Ideas

Nature-Inspired Gifts

  1. Santa Cruz Island An Illustrated History
    • Description: This two-volume book contains nearly 600 images, many of which have never been published. Santa Cruz Island An Illustrated History explores the geologic origins of the island and traces the cultural history from the native inhabitants, over 13,000 years ago.
    • Where to buy: Direct or Amazon
  2. Santa Barbara Palms Kitchen Towel
    • Description: A 100% organic cotton tea towel screen-printed with a coastal scene of Santa Barbara’s iconic palm trees.
  3. Santa Barbara Coordinates Jute Tote
    • Description: An eco-friendly jute tote bag printed with Santa Barbara’s latitude and longitude, perfect for beach outings or errands.
    • Where to Buy: Santa Barbara Company Santa Barbara Company
  4. Santa Barbara Map Wood and Epoxy Art
    • Description: A handcrafted wooden map of Santa Barbara, enhanced with epoxy resin to highlight its unique geography.
    • Where to Buy: DifferentMaps Store
  5. Handcrafted Olive Wood Crosses
    • Description: Beautifully carved crosses made from olive wood, reflecting the region’s rich heritage.
    • Where to Buy: Old Mission Santa Barbara Gift Shop

Adventure Gear

  1. Channel Islands Surfboards
    • Description: High-quality surfboards crafted by the renowned Channel Islands Surfboards, perfect for surfing enthusiasts.
    • Where to Buy: Channel Islands Surfboards
  2. Hike Santa Barbara Book by John McKinney
    • Description: A comprehensive guidebook detailing various trails in Santa Barbara’s parks and preserves, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
    • Where to Buy: Santa Barbara Company Santa Barbara Company
  3. Local Birds of Santa Barbara Pocket Guide
    • Description: A folding, waterproof guide featuring over 200 bird species found in Santa Barbara County, perfect for birdwatchers.
    • Where to Buy: Santa Barbara Company Santa Barbara Company

Apparel

  1. Santa Barbara Map Onesie
    • Description: A 100% organic cotton baby onesie featuring an illustrated map of Santa Barbara, designed by local artist Carly Weisman.
    • Where to Buy: Santa Barbara Company Santa Barbara Company
  2. Santa Barbara Coordinates Pillow
    • Description: A 12″x18″ indoor/outdoor moisture-resistant pillow displaying Santa Barbara’s coordinates, made with Sunbrella fabric.
  3. Santa Barbara Themed T-Shirts
    • Description: Comfortable t-shirts featuring designs inspired by Santa Barbara’s culture and landmarks.
    • Where to Buy: Channel Islands Surfboards
  4. Handcrafted Rosaries

Educational and Creative Gifts

  1. Santa Barbara Map Art
    • Description: Artistic representations of Santa Barbara’s geography, perfect for home decor.
    • Where to Buy: DifferentMaps Store
  2. Karin Shelton Santa Barbara Notecards
    • Description: A boxed set of nine blank notecards, each featuring a different painting of Santa Barbara scenes by local artist Karin Shelton.
    • Where to Buy: Santa Barbara Company Santa Barbara Company
  3. Map of Santa Barbara Cutting Board
    • Description: A 6″x8″ maple cutting board engraved with the streets and neighborhoods of Santa Barbara, designed and made in the USA.
    • Where to Buy: Santa Barbara Company Santa Barbara Company

Local Treats and Souvenirs

  1. Santa Barbara Souvenirs
  2. Surfing Accessories
    • Description: Accessories like hats, stickers, and leashes for surfing enthusiasts.
    • Where to Buy: Channel Islands Surfboards

These items capture the spirit of Santa Barbara and make thoughtful gifts for residents and visitors alike.

Who Got Their Start in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has been the birthplace of several notable brands across various industries. Here are some prominent examples:

  1. Deckers Brands: Established in 1973 by University of California, Santa Barbara alumni Doug Otto and Karl F. Lopker, Deckers Brands began with a simple flip-flop design that resonated with the surf lifestyle. Over the years, it has grown into a global corporation encompassing brands like UGG, Teva, Hoka One One, and Koolaburra. Wikipedia
  2. Big Dog Sportswear: Founded in 1983 in Santa Barbara, Big Dog is recognized for its casual clothing line featuring the iconic Saint Bernard logo. The brand gained popularity for its humorous and bold designs. Wikipedia
  3. Kinko’s: In 1970, Paul Orfalea opened the first Kinko’s in Isla Vista, near the University of California, Santa Barbara. The company grew into a leading chain of copy and print shops before being acquired by FedEx and rebranded as FedEx Office. Wikipedia
  4. The Habit Burger Grill: This fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in chargrilled hamburgers was founded in 1969 in Santa Barbara. Over the years, it has expanded significantly, offering a variety of menu items while maintaining its original charm. Wikipedia
  5. Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club: Established in 1910, this club is one of the most renowned polo clubs globally. Over time, it has expanded its brand to include apparel and accessories, reflecting the club’s prestigious heritage. Boniacorp
  6. Au Bon Climat: Founded in 1982 by Jim Clendenen and Adam Tolmach, this winery has been instrumental in elevating the quality of Burgundian varietals on the Central Coast, contributing to Santa Barbara County’s reputation as a world-class wine region.