Welcome to Carpinteria
Situated a mere 12 miles south of the city of Santa Barbara, Carpinteria, or “Carp,” as it’s affectionately called, blends small-town charm with enormous views to provide the quintessential California beach town experience.
World-class, high-profile properties share space with gorgeous single-family homes and sophisticated bungalows, while sprawling estates with lush landscaping are located steps away from the immaculate white sand of the Golden State’s rugged, beautiful coast. With ample tranquility and a warm, welcoming surfer-cool vibe, this tony hamlet offers the prevailing concept of paradise.
What to Love
- Several of the most coveted and breathtaking properties in California
- An enticing, walkable downtown district with independent shops
- Proximity to Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles
- Rests below the Santa Ynez mountain range
- Home to several high-ranking schools
Local Lifestyle
Carpinteria may have some of the most opulent properties in Southern California, but the atmosphere is pure laidback, understated luxury. Residents here, from affluent professionals to third-generation families, take full advantage of the Golden State’s impeccable weather, whether running on the beach or practicing their swing at the racquet club in nearby Santa Barbara.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
Carpinteria and its nearby environs boast a splendid mix of casual cafes, intimate coffee houses, superb bars, upscale restaurants, posh boutiques, and mom-and-pop shops.
Padaro Beach Grill is one of several local favorites. Chill and inviting and with staggering views to boot, this oceanside venue features a menu teeming with healthy, detectable eats. Grilled fish tacos with cilantro cream and avocado, Maui burgers with grilled pineapple, and luscious salads are just a few of the options on their menu.
Little Dom’s Seafood is equally alluring. The selections here are simple and delicious, from their olive oil cake to their linguini and clams. Come for Happy Hour for an especially lively time. Thoroughly satisfying comfort food, like expertly-cooked steaks and creamy mashed potatoes, is relished at Clementine’s Steak House, while Reynaldo’s Mexican Bakery is the optimal spot to hit up after a day at the beach or a long hike. Their authentic tamales and enchiladas attract a steady stream of visitors daily.
When a craving for homestyle pizza strikes, Carpinteria residents frequently flock to Giovanni’s for out-of-this-world pies, and The Spot more than hits the spot with its elevated “counter” food. Indeed, no matter what you may desire, Carpinteria and its surrounding towns will exceed your expectations.
Things to Do
Between its coastal location and sublime climate, life in Carpinteria is best enjoyed outside. Carpinteria is known for possessing what's been ranked as the world’s safest beach — the majestic Carpinteria City Beach. Beauty aside, this is an excellent place for swimming, thanks to the protection that’s offered by the Channel Islands.
Carpinteria and its slice of coastline also feature festivals and events throughout the year. The California Avocado Festival held downtown celebrates California’s prodigious bounty in a vibrant setting, while polo tournaments, from May to October, showcase the talent that’s practiced by many at the prestigious Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, a highly esteemed club that has been around for more than a century and is known as one of the oldest of its kind in the country.
Schools
The schools in Carpinteria are a large part of its draw for families with children. A few of the most remarkable schools in the town include:
