Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Santa Barbara

Cool spots

Sometimes the only goal is to find a place that feels genuinely cool.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Rodeo Room image 1
Rodeo Room image 2
Rodeo Room image 3
View all
Cocktail bar

Small cocktail bar with speakeasy vibe offers an intimate, cozy atmosphere and artisanal mixology. Guests enjoy laid-back coolness with popular music and a dog-friendly patio. Late-night food options add to the relaxed, inviting setting.

Small size creates an intimate setting with a relaxed bar atmosphere. The vibe feels consistently cool and laid-back.

People are saying

"The food here is really impressive and not just typical bar food."

"It's a super cool, relaxed spot with a great atmosphere."

"You have to try the happy hour, the carnitas tacos are unbelievable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with special deals.

2

The kitchen stays open until 11pm for late-night dining.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for quick service.

02
Dusk Bar image 1

Small, modern bar with an open, airy design that turns intimate at night. Live music on Tuesdays adds a relaxed vibe perfect for conversation. Expertly mixed cocktails and fresh seafood make it a cool spot with a standout concept.

The space features a cool concept and design that stands out. It creates a very cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are masters and make great drinks."

"I love the wide variety of artisanal tequilas and mezcals they offer."

"The cocktails here are creative and really delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers BOGO oysters, providing good value on select days.

2

Live music occurs every Tuesday evening at Dusk Bar.

3

Expect a 5-minute wait during peak hours on Fridays around 6pm.

03
Considered | Curbside Coffee Bus image 1

Coffee bus offers a cool retro vibe that draws crowds. It serves a carefully crafted menu with a standout gluten-free granola. The setup is seamless and convenient, making it a fun spot at local events.

Coffee comes from a cool retro bus that adds a unique touch. The vibe feels inviting yet distinctly cool.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee was the best addition to any event."

"The service at this Local Spot is always wonderful and thoughtful."

"The vibe here is cool and super friendly."

Good to know

1

Considered Coffee offers delivery service for weekdays.

2

The coffee bus usually parks in convenient locations near attractions.

3

They do not upcharge for milk alternatives.

04
Night Lizard Brewing Company image 1

Original brick walls and natural edge wood tables create a rustic atmosphere with plenty of seating for a chill vibe. Live music and board games keep energy mellow and engaging. Dog-friendly patios add a community feel where pets are welcome.

Lots of seating creates a chill vibe. The brewery stays clean and serves as a cool hangout spot.

People are saying

"I loved trying all the unique and experimental beers here."

"This local spot has a friendly atmosphere and fun conversations."

"It's a cool hangout spot with a chill vibe."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Live music performances occur on weekends, starting at 8pm.

3

The comedy show ticket costs $10 per person.

05
Vices & Spices From Around The World image 1

Cozy spice shop with a friendly neighborhood vibe and a charming outdoor seating area. Offers bulk spices, teas, and freshly ground coffee alongside unique gift items like candles and mugs. Welcomes casual visits where people bring dogs and enjoy browsing an eclectic collection.

People are saying

"I found a huge variety of tea and spices here."

"This cafe is a unique, charming shop with local history and gifts."

"They have cool gifts, bulk spices, and a wide variety of teas."

Good to know

1

The shop has ample parking with easy access.

2

The coffee is roasted right here in town.

3

The tea selection is robust with various flavors and decaf options.

06
Handlebar Coffee Roasters image 1

Converted Safeway building blends historic brick with an industrial coffee roaster for a cool, lively vibe. Natural light fills the spacious warehouse, where friendly service meets a mix of people working and socializing. Outdoor patio offers pet-friendly seating with scenic views.

Wood accents and open space create a cool vibe. Friendly service adds to the historic building's welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the truly excellent coffee here."

"It's got a really cool vibe with lots of wood and space."

"I loved that the patio was dog friendly."

Good to know

1

Handlebar Coffee Roasters is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

2

The coffee is roasted on-site, ensuring freshness with every cup.

3

Seating can be limited, especially during peak hours due to laptop users.

07
Elsies Tavern image 1

Former motorcycle shop turned bar offers eclectic decor and a chill vibe with pool and arcade games. Super cool servers provide excellent service in a weird and hip setting. Cash-only spot feels like a hidden gem with casual social energy.

Super cool servers deliver excellent service in a spot that feels weird and hip. This place stands out as a rare find these days.

People are saying

"I considered this my favorite bar in all of Santa Barbara."

"I found the outdoor seating to be a cool, hip, and rare spot."

"It's a really cool little place."

Good to know

1

Elsies Tavern is cash only.

2

Parking on de la Guerra could be limited; consider side streets.

3

They have an ATM available for cash withdrawals.

08
Corks n' Crowns Tasting Room and Wine Sales image 1

Small wine bar shines with live music and a cozy fireplace for chill nights. Outdoor patio offers laid-back seating perfect for people watching. Upbeat vibe blends warmth and style, making it an effortlessly cool spot to relax.

Upbeat and welcoming vibe blends with warmth and style. Effortlessly cool atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy.

People are saying

"The wine here has a super warm and chill vibe."

"It's a cozy place with a fireplace and couches to snuggle on."

"The wine selection here is outstanding and expertly chosen."

Good to know

1

Tasting flights are available for $20, offering three samples.

2

Parking can be limited; consider public lots along Cabrillo.

3

The venue is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your pets.

09
Rincon Brewery image 1

Large open space offers spacious patios and gardens for a chill vibe. Tables with board games and ping pong add playful fun. Guests stay respectful, keeping the atmosphere laid-back and truly cool.

A cool vibe defines the atmosphere here. The spot feels really cool and laid-back.

People are saying

"They have a large selection of tasty beers."

"The patio is a great outdoor space on a warm day."

"The beer here is phenomenal, especially with the beach vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks.

2

Limited parking is available near the brewery; consider street parking.

3

Rincon Brewery offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

10
Dawn Cafe Santa Barbara image 1

Chic industrial design creates a cozy yet spacious coffee shop with a laid-back vibe. Hidden away, it offers a unique and inviting space perfect for relaxed sipping or casual work. Outdoor seating adds a pleasant spot for small groups.

Hidden away, the spot has a cool vibe and a good location. The space feels unique and inviting.

People are saying

"I loved the creative lattes and coffee here."

"The croissant was light, flaky, and just what I needed."

"I found the cafe to be a cool spot with a great vibe."

Good to know

1

Dawn Cafe transforms into a bar in the evening, offering a different vibe.

2

Limited seating is available, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

No extra charge for alternative milk options like oat milk.

11
Deep Sea Tasting Room image 1

Wine bar offers stunning panoramic ocean views from both indoor and outdoor seating, including a terrace over the water. Atmosphere feels relaxed yet elegant, with a romantic and friendly vibe. Guests often enjoy watching sunsets and harbor scenes while sipping on well-served wine flights.

People are saying

"I loved sipping wine with a beautiful ocean view."

"The view from the terrace is spectacular, overlooking the ocean and mountains."

"I thought the bar was possibly the coolest I've ever been to."

Good to know

1

The wine tasting costs $20 for a selection of whites and reds.

2

The tasting room is upstairs, which may be an issue for those with mobility challenges.

3

Deep Sea Tasting Room is pet friendly, allowing dogs on the deck.

12
Test Pilot image 1
Cocktail bar

Small cocktail bar mixes old school tiki with modern style and refined decor. Moody lighting and 90s hip hop create an upscale yet relaxed vibe. Trendy atmosphere and fun drinks invite long stays with great service.

Cool vibe stands out with trendy atmosphere and fun drinks. The place invites staying longer to enjoy more of its great service.

People are saying

"The craft cocktails here are incredibly well balanced and delicious."

"It's a cool place with a fun vibe and great drinks."

"It's a great cocktail bar for rum and tiki vibes."

Good to know

1

Expect heavy crowds on weekend nights, leading to longer wait times.

2

The bar allows outside food from the taco truck nearby until 11pm.

3

The bathroom is located at the back, which can be crowded.

13
M Special Brewing Company - Downtown image 1

Brewery offers locally brewed beers and live music for a cool, relaxed vibe. Casual food like tacos and nachos pairs well with multiple big screen TVs and board games. Outdoor seating is pet-friendly with a great street view.

Strong cool vibe defines the atmosphere. The overall energy feels relaxed and inviting.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the unique and good beer selection here."

"I loved the Mexican food, especially the tortas and tacos."

"The vibe here is so cool, with good people around."

Good to know

1

Craft pints are available for $5 on selected beers.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The venue is dog friendly, allowing pets in outdoor areas.

14
Arlington Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater offers old-world beauty and classic architecture that create a cool, charming vibe. Comfortable seats and excellent sound make concerts great, though lack of air conditioning can make it warm.

Old architecture gives the venue a cool vibe. The interior feels classic and adds to the overall theater charm.

People are saying

"It's a romantic movie theater with a beautiful, old-world atmosphere."

"The atmosphere for live shows feels like an old Spanish town."

"The interior architecture here is really cool."

Good to know

1

The theatre has no air conditioning, making it uncomfortable during hot weather.

2

Parking can be tricky, but there are several empty lots nearby.

3

The venue hosts a variety of events, including concerts and film festivals.

15
SB Biergarten image 1
Beer garden

Spacious beer garden offers a German beer hall style with an American twist, perfect for a cool vibe hangout. Indoor and outdoor seating surrounded by lush greenery creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Fire pits and music keep the mood fun for groups and dog owners.

The spot has a cool vibe that makes it a great place to hang out. The beer garden adds to the relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the great beer selection here."

"The smash burgers here are excellent and taste homemade."

"I found the atmosphere here to be pretty cool."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

2

SB Biergarten is dog friendly, allowing pets in outdoor seating areas.

3

Parking is easy and free, with options for valet or public lots nearby.

16
Stearns Wharf image 1
Historical landmark

Pier offers breathtaking ocean views and a historic atmosphere perfect for fishing and exploring marine exhibits. Cool restaurants line the waterfront, making it a pleasant spot to hang out and enjoy the breeze.

Views from the pier offer cool waterfront scenes and a chance to cool down by the ocean. Several cool restaurants line the pier, making it a pleasant spot to hang out.

People are saying

"The panoramic views of the mountains meeting the Pacific are breathtaking."

"You'll find fun activities like strolling, shopping, and eating with great ocean views."

"I thought the pier was a cool place to visit with great views."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 90 minutes at Stearns Wharf.

2

There are various shops and restaurants with ocean views on the wharf.

3

Visitors can walk to Stearns Wharf from nearby hotels.

Discover more

Santa Barbara, California

Area guide
Loading Map...