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A Weekend at Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club in Carpinteria: Your Ultimate Equestrian Travel Guide

A Weekend at Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club in Carpinteria
Santa Barbara California Polo Club

Santa Barbara offers an idyllic blend of equestrian tradition and California coastal charm. A weekend in the region delivers elegance with a laid-back twist—an escape filled with ocean views, Spanish architecture, wine country delights,

and a vibrant arts scene.

A dining table adorned with various food items and a bottle of wine

Friday Evening: Arrival & Sunset Dining

  • Check-In: Stay at the Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito, or opt for the ocean-view charm of Harbor View Inn in downtown Santa Barbara. Both offer comfort, elegance, and easy access to the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club.


  • Dinner: Book a table at The Lark in the Funk Zone—an upscale farm-to-table restaurant housed in a former fish market.


  • Evening Activity: Stroll along Stearns Wharf and take in the Pacific sunset.

Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club

Saturday: Polo, Vineyards, & Coastline

  • Morning:

    • Begin with breakfast at Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery in Montecito. Don’t miss their lemon poppyseed pancakes and fresh juice.

    • Head to the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club for a morning match or polo clinic. Whether watching high-goal competition or observing practice, you’ll feel immersed in the local equestrian energy.

  • Afternoon:

    • After the polo excitement, take a short drive to Lotusland, an enchanting 37-acre botanical garden blending artistry and horticulture.

    • Lunch: Dine al fresco at Lucky’s Steakhouse in Montecito, a favorite among polo players and celebrities alike.

  • Evening:

    • Unwind at Butterfly Beach for a golden hour stroll or drive to Stearns Wharf for some light shopping and seaside views.

    • Dinner: Reserve a table at Bouchon Santa Barbara, known for its French-influenced, locally sourced cuisine paired with regional wines.

A clear blue sky with no clouds
A delicious pastry on a plate next to a warm cup of coffee

Sunday: Culture, Nature & Coastal Leisure

  • Morning:

    • Equestrian Heritage: Take a scenic 30-minute drive to the Santa Ynez Valley, home to several historic ranches and wine-tasting opportunities.

    • Breakfast: Bree’osh Artisan Bakery in Montecito, a local favorite for organic baked delicacies.

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  • Afternoon:

    • Explore the nearby town of Los Olivos—charming, walkable, and filled with tasting rooms and artisan boutiques.

    • Brunch: Try Finch & Fork for locally sourced California comfort food.

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  • Evening:

    • Wrap up your weekend with a stop at Douglas Family Preserve or a sunset drive along Shoreline Drive, soaking in the panoramic coastal views.

A close-up of grapes growing on the vine
SBPOLO Cabanas

Insider Tips for Equestrian Visitors

  • Parking : General parking is free; arrive early for better access to shaded areas

  • Pet-Friendly: Most beaches and the polo club allow well-behaved dogs on leash.

  • Best Polo Viewing: Reserve a cabana or tailgate space along the grandstands for an immersive experience.​

  • Kid-Friendly Spots: Don’t miss the Santa Barbara Zoo or the Sea Center at Stearns Wharf.

  • Local Equestrian Shops:

    • Jackson Hole Horse Emporium located seasonally at the Santa Barbara Polo Club, specializes in upscale polo gear and rider essentials during tournament season.

    • Jedlicka’s Western Wear in Santa Barbara is a local staple offering English and Western tack, boots, riding apparel, and accessories. They also carry some polo basics and can be a great emergency stop for forgotten essentials.

A tree adorned with vibrant pink flowers

Explore Nearby Cities

Santa Barbara's privileged location makes it a gateway to nearby attractions:

  • Montecito (15 min): An upscale enclave known for its luxurious estates, Lotusland botanical gardens, Butterfly Beach, and celebrity sightings. Great for brunch and boutique strolls.

  • Ojai (45 minutes): A wellness haven with art galleries, organic markets, and scenic hikes.

  • Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country (45–60 min): Home to world-class vineyards and small towns like Los Olivos, Solvang (Danish-themed village), and Buellton. Great for wine tasting, boutique shopping, and culinary experiences.

A bright yellow path winding through a green landscape
A hat and a pair of sunglasses placed on a wooden table

Downloadable Packing List

  • Resort casual attire for events and dinners

  • Comfortable walking shoes for vineyards or beach strolls

  • Wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses

  • Binoculars for better polo viewing

  • Light jacket or wrap for coastal evenings
     

Binocular and Cameras for capturing G-rdyr
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