Share

Cristal's Blog

THINGS TO DO IN SANTA BARBARA: CRISTAL’S PICKS FOR AUGUST 2023

July 27, 2023

Back to Articles
 

As the sun shines brightly over the beautiful Santa Barbara Coast, there's no better time to soak in the beachside bliss of The American Riviera®. With a plethora of exciting things to do in Santa Barbara this August, you're sure to find something that brings a little sunshine into your life.


The sand and ocean at Butterfly Beach in Montecito, with palm trees and blue sky
Niranjan Arminius, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

7 Exciting Things to do This Month

1. Explore the Beaches
Welcome to the idyllic paradise of Santa Barbara, where a captivating coastline awaits. Prepare to be enchanted by a treasure trove of beautiful beaches that beckon you with their soft, golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Whether you seek relaxation under the warm sun, exhilaration in the rolling waves, or tranquility in a leisurely stroll, Santa Barbara's beaches offer an array of experiences to suit every beachgoer's desires.

Adobe facade of the Old Mission in Santa Barbara, with blue sky
Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 3.0

2. Visit the Santa Barbara Mission
Journey back in time to the heart of Santa Barbara's rich history as you step into the Santa Barbara Mission, a majestic landmark that stands as a testament to the city's Spanish colonial heritage. Revered as the "Queen of the Missions," this architectural marvel is a beacon of cultural significance, offering guided tours that provide a captivating glimpse into the past, transporting you to the days when Spanish missionaries first settled in the area. Also, from now until September 4, take in Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel exhibit. Step into the brilliance of Michelangelo's masterpieces, meticulously reproduced to showcase every intricate detail and stroke of genius.

People walking down the sidewalk at the Santa Barbara Sunday art fair


3. Attend the Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show
Discover a creative extravaganza at the Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show, held every Sunday along the picturesque Cabrillo Boulevard: from Stearns Wharf to Calle Cesar Chavez. At the top of many people’s list of things to do in Santa Barbara, this revered happening showcases the talents of local artisans, offering an exceptional opportunity to explore a vast array of unique handmade crafts and artworks. From intricate drawings and captivating paintings to stunning graphics, sculptures, crafts, and mesmerizing photography, the Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show represents a kaleidoscope of artistic expression.

    A night concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl, with the stage illuminated.
    Mark Krynsky, CC BY 2.0

    4. Enjoy an Outdoor Concert at The Santa Barbara Bowl
    Every year, the Santa Barbara Bowl treats audiences to an impressive array of concerts and performances, totaling an average of 27 shows from April to November. With the weather at its finest during this period, the venue becomes a haven for live entertainment and breathtaking ocean views. Before the show begins, take a moment to savor the panoramic sight of the ocean and witness a spectacular sunset while indulging in delicious food and drinks from the various concession stands scattered throughout the property. The Santa Barbara Bowl's stunning amphitheater ensures that all attendees have an unforgettable experience as they immerse themselves in the magic of live music, side-splitting comedy, and an array of other mesmerizing performances.

    Sailboat with red, white, and blue sails on the water in Santa Barbara Harbor

    5. Sipping on the Sea
    Experience a captivating maritime adventure on August 17th as you set sail on a two-hour excursion aboard the Double Dolphin while enjoying a refreshing glass of libations from Topa Topa. At the Santa Barbara Sailing Center, the maritime fun doesn't stop there. Rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, rent a sailboat, master the art of sailing, or charter a sailboat with a knowledgeable captain. The center also presents a unique opportunity to embark on a Liveaboard Instructional Vacation, where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of the world-famous Channel Islands National Park. For an extraordinary marine encounter, join one of the public cruises aboard their impressive 50-foot Catamaran.

    The audience in a dark theater watching a movie

    6. Santa Barbara Indie Film Fest
    If you're a film enthusiast, catch the Santa Barbara Indie Film Fest on August 26-27 at the historic Alhecama Theatre. This celebration of creativity and artistic expression is like no other as established and emerging filmmakers alike come together to showcase their masterpieces. Throughout the two-day extravaganza, attendees will have the privilege of attending an array of captivating screenings, featuring a diverse selection of genres and styles. From thought-provoking dramas to heartwarming comedies, gripping documentaries, and experimental short films, there will be something for everyone’s cinematic taste.

    A butterfly on a purple flower at the Butterflies Alive! Santa Barbara exhibit.
    Mark Krynsky, CC BY 2.0

    7. Butterflies Alive!
    From now until September 4, explore the Sprague Butterfly Pavilion at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History where you’ll be transported into the magical realm of these delicate and colorful creatures. The exhibit showcases a wide array of butterfly species: each one a living work of art with its unique patterns and vibrant colors. From the striking monarch butterflies with their distinctive black and orange wings to the ethereal swallowtails adorned with intricate markings, you’ll be amazed by the sheer diversity and splendor of these tiny creatures. Observe the butterflies up close, while expert naturalists and educators provide fascinating insights into the behavior, characteristics, and importance of these delicate creatures.


    If you're making your list of things to do in Santa Barbara this August and have been considering a move to, or within any of the Santa Barbara area communities, add “Call Cristal” to that list. I can help you sell your home, and have several outstanding property listings on my comprehensive website to show you. Please call me at (805) 886-9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com for a free consultation regarding buying and selling. Let the not-so lazy days of summer begin!



    More resources:




    Back to Articles

    Client Reviews

    “Cristal is a pleasure to work with! Her knowledge of the local real estate market coupled with her amazing listening skills resulted in her showing us an array of homes that were all excellent choices. Her low-pressure patient attitude made us feel extremely comfortable with the whole process. I cannot recommend her highly enough.”

    - M.F.

    “Cristal Clarke is #1 in her field - and you don't become #1 by luck. Cristal works harder, and longer, and with more charm and patience than any real estate agent I have ever worked with in the past; her calendar has no weekend, her days have no clocks, her only concern is selling your property as soon as possible and for the best price on the market. Am I a fan? You bet!”

    - P.B.

    “We have used Cristal now several times and cannot express how grateful we are for her expertise, dedication, and unwavering support throughout the entire home-buying process. Cristal is knowledgeable, patient and attentive. Her attention to detail is remarkable, and she consistently went above and beyond to provide us with all the information and resources we needed to make informed decisions. Cristal is a skillful negotiator and advocate. She can navigate complex negotiations with professionalism and grace and felt like a true partner to us in the home-buying process. Cristal has a genuine passion for real estate and a deep commitment to her clients' satisfaction. I cannot speak highly enough of Cristal and her exceptional service. She is a true expert in her field and her dedication to excellence, combined with unwavering support is the reason we choose to work with her for all our real estate buying needs.”

    - T.C.

    “Cristal is a top-notch realtor who sold my home before it ever went on the market. I had two competing offers that enabled me to get top dollar for my home. Not only is Cristal superb but her team is extraordinary. I cannot say enough about Cristal and her team. They are simply phenomenal, the consummate professionals, who took care of every possible detail, making the sale and transition period, smooth from our end. They are also lovely, caring people, who knew all the right professionals, to get the job done. Thank you, everyone!”

    - D.R.

    “I could list lots of cool adjectives to describe Cristal. All good by the way. But, that is not why I or anyone should hire Cristal. My reason for hiring her, which proved to be correct, is very simple. She got the job done. And, she does it time and time again and with zero issues. And, that is why she is one of the top agents in the country. End of subject. ”

    - M.A.

    “Working with Cristal was a complete pleasure. Cristal was extremely patient with us as we evaluated nearly 2 dozen homes over a span of 2 years. Her knowledge of the market is unmatched. Cristal provided us with exceptional counsel as we evaluated opportunities and negotiated pricing. The closing process was handled thoroughly and efficiently. We could not be happier with our purchase and even more happy to now call Cristal our friend.”

    - D.K.

    “Cristal Clarke has conducted numerous real estate transactions for me beginning 13 years ago with the purchase of a Lemon Ranch. She has handled both large and small purchases and sales with equal dedication. As a negotiator, you can’t find anyone better. Her transactions are always conducted in the most appropriate and professional manner. Cristal has considerable knowledge of the Santa Barbara market.”

    - S.N. Decker Ph.D.

    “Living in Europe, we were to say the least, unaccustomed to the nuances of Real Estate acquisition in California and Cristal steered us through the process with absolute professionalism and personal attention to detail at every turn. Her in-depth knowledge of the market place combined with enthusiasm and drive was the only reason we secured the property of our dreams and will be forever grateful. If you are looking for personal discrete and private representation of the highest quality we suggest you look no further than Cristal Clarke.”

    - Johan and Paula van den Berg

    “Cristal is very straightforward, cheerful, helpful, professional and trustworthy….we felt very lucky to work with her.”

    - John and Lacey Williams

    “After considering our many choices, we are grateful it was Cristal Clarke of Sotheby’s International who represented the sale of our Montecito cottage. We are familiar with Cristal’s reputation of hard work and dedication to clients, but it was her attention to detail that made our experience so positive. She offered suggestions for staging the property, worked in harmony with potential buyers and was even able to secure back up offers. The sale of our cottage was completed much sooner than we expected, due in great part to Cristal’s professional skills and support. We highly recommend Cristal as a first choice for anyone needing representation with real estate.”

    - Michael & Nancy Lee

    “Our experience in working with Cristal Clarke resulted in the successful and discrete acquisition of a property which was not yet on the open market. Her knowledge of the Montecito/Santa Barbara area and vast expertise blended with her passion for real estate and architecture, provided us with the very highest level of professionalism and personalized services. Cristal exhibited a rare combination of excellent communications, attention to detail, creativity and patience.”

    - Richard and Catherine Frinier

    “Cristal really breaks the mold. She knows every nook and cranny of this real estate market, understands value, and follows up on everything, all the time. She was incredibly patient with our two year quest to find the perfect house. Every house hunting trip from across the country was well planned, and our time was never wasted. On top of her professionalism and expertise, she is delightful to spend time with. We are thrilled with the home we purchased, and grateful to Cristal for so wisely advising us through this process, right through to the close and beyond.”

    - Laurie Siegel

    “We met Cristal first in the course of renting a winter home (for three years), then buying a house using her as our agent. She was amazingly good at listening to our wants and showing us homes that fit our needs. Her mastery of the paperwork was perfect. Most importantly, there was never a situation where we doubted her straightforwardness or integrity. If we do another real estate transaction in Montecito (which I doubt, we’re happy with what we purchased), without question we’d use Cristal again.”

    - Ken Saffir

    “Susan and I just want to thank you for your efforts in the sale of our home. You are really quite amazing. Your competence, persistence, optimism and humor made the entire process effortless. Every problem that arose, you somehow fixed; any obstacle, you overcame. We have bought and sold many homes. It has never been such a painless and enjoyable process!”

    - Michael & Susan Marquart

    “A little something about “our” realtor, Cristal Clarke. My wife and I came to Santa Barbara about fifteen years ago looking for a seasonal home from which to enjoy the weather and amenities of the central coast. Being in the real estate business myself I was familiar with agents and brokers so entered the market with open eyes. We “flipped” a few houses in the early years, dealing with various agents and finally ended up in Montecito. That’s when good fortune put us together with Cristal. To say we were impressed is to put it mildly. Cristal really knows the market. She is familiar with the area, its history and trends. When we have questions about a particular property she either has the answers immediately or gets back to us by phone or email. There is no waiting or wondering with Cristal. She is an agent who is “on top of it.” Her recommendations as to price points, contractors, inspectors and title agents have proven to be exceptional, showing great insight and the highest professional standards. We consider ourselves exceedingly fortunate to say that Cristal Clarke is our realtor and would recommend her services to any serious buyer or seller.”

    - Rob & Judi Kelch