Welcome to the Newto News for May of 2025. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

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Santa Barbara, California has a rich history that dates back over 13,000 years to when the Chumash Native American tribe first settled in the area. In the late 18th century, Spanish explorers led by Juan Cabrillo claimed the land in the name of Spain. In 1782, the Presidio of Santa Barbara was established as a military outpost. Throughout the 19th century, Santa Barbara experienced a number of changes, including becoming part of Mexico in 1822 and then becoming a part of the United States following the Mexican-American War in 1848. In the early 20th century, Santa Barbara saw a rise in tourism thanks to its beautiful beaches and Mediterranean climate, attracting wealthy visitors and celebrities. The devastating earthquake of 1925 brought destruction to the city, but also led to a revitalization of its architecture with a Spanish Colonial Revival style. Today, Santa Barbara is a thriving coastal city known for its stunning beaches, wineries, and vibrant arts scene.

1. The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  • Healthcare
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Retail
  • Manufacturing
  • Finance
  • Hospitality
  • Construction
  • Government
  • Transportation

2. The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Camping
  • Golfing
  • Skiing
  • Snowboarding
  • Wine tasting
  • Sightseeing tours

3. Average low and high temperature for the month:

  • Low: 45°F
  • High: 70°F

4. Average precipitation for the month:

  • 3 inches

5. Elevation:

  • 500 feet above sea level

6. Average home price:

  • $300,000

7. Average household income:

  • $60,000

8. The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  • National Park
  • Zoo
  • Museum
  • Botanical Gardens
  • Historic Landmark
  • Beach
  • Amusement Park
  • Wineries
  • Sports Stadium
  • Art Gallery

The top 10 restaurants:

The Lark

Funk Zone

The Lark offers innovative American cuisine in a lively, rustic-chic setting, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and sharing plates.

Bouchon Santa Barbara

Downtown

Bouchon Santa Barbara is a romantic spot known for its sophisticated yet comforting French cuisine, utilizing fresh local produce and seafood.

Blackbird

Hotel Californian

Blackbird provides an upscale dining experience with a modern seafood-focused menu, complemented by a carefully curated wine list.

Toma Restaurant & Bar

Waterfront

Toma offers a cozy and elegant ambiance with a menu showcasing Italian-inspired coastal cuisine and impressive waterfront views.

Arigato Sushi

Downtown

Arigato Sushi is a bustling sushi spot renowned for its creative rolls and the freshest sushi, offering a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

Santa Barbara Shellfish Company

Stern’s Wharf

Located on the iconic pier, this restaurant specializes in freshly caught seafood and shellfish, providing a casual dining experience with stunning ocean views.

Intermezzo Bar & Café

Downtown

Intermezzo Bar & Café is a stylish spot featuring seasonal small plates and flatbreads, perfect for a relaxed meal or drinks with friends.

Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery

Downtown

Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery is cherished for its delicious breakfast, brunch options, and homemade pastries in a charming, welcoming atmosphere.

Loquita

Funk Zone

Loquita offers an authentic Spanish dining experience with a menu full of tapas, wood-fired grilled dishes, and an extensive gin and sherry collection.

Sama Sama Kitchen

Downtown

Sama Sama Kitchen serves vibrant and modern Indonesian-inspired cuisine using organic, farm-fresh ingredients, accompanied by inventive cocktails.

Current Events:

DJ Quik Live in Concert at SOHO in Santa Barbera May 23rd
May 22
Thu • 8:00pm

DJ Quik Live in Concert at SOHO in Santa Barbera May 23rd

Soho Restaurant & Music Club

Alicia Villarreal
May 29
Thu • 8:00pm

Alicia Villarreal

Arlington Theatre

Brad Williams: The Growth Spurt Tour
Jun 06
Thu • 7:00pm

Brad Williams: The Growth Spurt Tour

Granada Theatre

Mary Chapin Carpenter w/ Brandy Clark
Jun 15
Thu • 7:00pm

Mary Chapin Carpenter w/ Brandy Clark

The Lobero

Suga Free with RBL Posse In SOHO in Santa Barbara
Jun 20
Thu • 8:00pm

Suga Free with RBL Posse In SOHO in Santa Barbara

Soho Restaurant & Music Club

Wolves of Glendale, OCT
Jun 26
Thu • 9:00pm

Wolves of Glendale, OCT

Soho Restaurant & Music Club

Gogol Bordello w/ Puzzled Panther
Jul 24
Thu • 7:30pm

Gogol Bordello w/ Puzzled Panther

Arlington Theatre

HED PE Tour
Aug 09
Thu • 8:00pm

HED PE Tour

Soho Restaurant & Music Club

Yachtley Crew
Aug 15
Thu • 8:30pm

Yachtley Crew

Arlington Theatre