Santa Barbara County area with ample biking and hiking spots
Eastern Goleta Valley is an unincorporated community in Santa Barbara County set between the sweeping foothills of the Santa Ynez mountains and the coast of the Pacific Ocean. The University of California, Santa Barbara is one of the area's major employers, and Ainsley Hughes, a Realtor for Keller Williams who knows the area well, says that’s a major reason people move here. “It’s a bit more slower paced,” she says. The area has a suburban feel, and folks maintain an active lifestyle by biking on one of the many paved paths like the scenic Obern Trail and hiking in Tucker’s Grover Park. “It’s quieter and not quite as dense as Santa Barbara,” Hughes says. Eastern Goleta Valley also has well-rated public schools and a range of housing.
East Goleta Valley has many great trails to take a walk.
Biking trails make East Goleta Valley a great place to live.
1/2
Biking through the foothills and near the beach
The community has a handful of community parks, recreational spaces and multi-use trails close to San Marcos Foothills Preserve’s 300 acres and beaches on the Pacific coastline. Tucker’s Grove Park features a playground, athletic fields and connections to the 3-mile San Antonio Creek Trail, which travels through the prairie-flower-filled San Antonio Canyon Park. Birdwatchers and horseback riders frequent the massive More Mesa open space, which has stunning ocean vistas. Hughes says Goleta Beach Park is another spot where locals lounge and ride their bikes. “It’s a good little beach—a popular place for surf camp or lessons,” she says. Visitors can also walk their dogs or fish off the pier.
More Mesa Shores is the closest beach to East Goleta Valley.
You can explore the pier in East Goleta Valley.
1/2
From midcentury condos to luxurious estates
The area has a combination of gridded suburbs with cul-de-sacs and more hidden communities with roads canopied by coastal live oaks. Narrow roads like San Marcos weave around hilly areas and cliffs in the north, and the narrow Via Huerto Road connects locals to the coast. The median price for a single-family home is about $2.3 million, roughly $300,000 less than neighboring Santa Barbara. Spanish-style condos and townhomes from the 1970s and ‘90s are spread throughout the community, typically ranging between $1 million and $2 million. Housing styles include midcentury ranch-style, Spanish-influenced modern traditional homes and small cottages spanning the 20th century. Neighborhoods like Hope Ranch have multi-million-dollar estates with luxury pools and one to two acres of land. Many are close to the ocean or La Cumbre Country Club.
There are many mansions located in Eastern Goleta Valley.
Large estates are scattered throughout Eastern Goleta Valley.
1/2
Focus on tech and sports in Santa Barbara Unified School District
For elementary grades, the area is zoned for the Goleta Union School District, which earns an A-minus from Niche. The district offers a Summer Thrive program where students explore performing arts, journal outdoors and get help with math and reading. For higher grades, kids attend schools in the Santa Barbara Unified School District, which scores an A. Those on the west side may attend Dos Pueblos Senior High; the school features the Dos Pueblos Engineering Academy, a 4-year-long program where students study Mechatronics and other disciplines. Residents on the east go to San Marcos Senior High, known for its athletic programs, including its San Marcos Royals Football Team, which will make district playoffs in 2024. Students may opt to continue their post-grad journeys at UCSB, which has over 200 majors and is recognized as a leading research university by the Association of American Universities. Santa Barbara City College is another option 7 miles west.
Many kids ride their bikes to Foothill Elementary.
Foothill Elementary has a beautiful campus.
San Marcos Senior High is located at the foot of the mountains in Goleta.
Dos Pueblos Senior High School is a large school in the area.
1/4
Bookstores, cafes and thrift shops near Eastern Goleta Valley
Hollister and Patterson Avenue house some local shopping spots in the area. Magnolia Shopping Center has a Ralph’s Grocery Store, the United Family Association Thrift and several other shops and restaurants. Calle Real Center is a few blocks outside the area with a Trader Joe’s and locally owned salons and small businesses. Locals can also head west to Goleta’s Old Town for some of the area’s oldest family-run businesses and eateries. Used bookstores, bakeries and Asian and Mexican markets sit side-by-side along the four-lane walkable avenue. Every Sunday, the Camino Real Marketplace hosts The Goleta Farmer’s Market 6 miles west of the community.
Old Town Coffee is a great place to converse with friends in East Goleta Valley.
Treat yourself to a cappuccino at
Dune Coffee in East Goleta Valley.
1/2
Listening and learning through UCSB’s Arts and Lectures events
The University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) is an entertainment hub for the community. Hughes, an alum of the university, says residents regularly attend UC Santa Barbara Gauchos soccer and basketball games at Harder Stadium and The Thunderdome indoor event center. Arts and Lectures is a school-based organization that annually presents dance performances, concerts and talks from renowned authors and professors. In September, residents can also drive 6 miles west to Girsh Park in Goleta for the annual Goleta Lemon Festival. Visitors can watch a pie-eating contest, peruse a car show and check out vendor booths.
Hopping on Santa Barbara MTD buses
U.S. Route 101—or “the 101” as locals call it—runs through the middle of the area, and California State Route 154 bisects the 101 in the north. The community has bike lanes on roads like Hollister Avenue, Cathedral Oaks Road and Calle Real. The paved Obern Trail Bike Path makes a 21-mile loop around the coastline past Goleta Beach and UCSB’s campus. Santa Barbara MTD buses also make regular stops in the community and at Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital on the west side. Santa Barbara Airport sits on the southwestern border.
Wildfires and flood risks near Atascadero Creek
While crime data for 2023 and 2024 isn’t readily available for Eastern Goleta Valley, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office reported an increase in violent crime and a decrease in property crime in unincorporated areas. The same trend happened in the city of Goleta. The northern part of the community is more at risk of wildfires because of the proximity to wooded areas in the San Marcos Foothill Preserve. The Santa Barbara Fire Department urges homeowners to create a more defensible space around their properties by building non-combustible fence material and installing dual-paned windows. Santa Barbara County Fire Station 13 is also near Hollister Avenue. Parts of Eastern Goleta Valley also have significant flooding risk, especially farther south, closer to the Atascadero Creek and Goleta Slough State Marine Conservation Area. The county says those close to flood-prone areas should keep sandbags and plywood on hand and a portable radio in case of power outages.
Written By
Hannah Baggenstoss
Photography Contributed By
Joseph Palacios
Video By
Pasha Chichagov
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tiffany Dore,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Privately positioned in one of Forte Ranch's most desirable settings, this upper-level 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo offers comfort, privacy, and convenience. Vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light create a spacious and inviting atmosphere. Recent updates include remodeled bathrooms, new high-end carpet, and an energy-efficient heating and air conditioning system. The open floor plan features
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a legacy estate in Hope Ranch with two rare, adjoining parcels totaling 5.7 acres. The crown jewel is a recently rebuilt 5BD | 5.5BA modern residence originally envisioned by renowned architect Barry Berkus, showcasing sweeping, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and Santa Ynez Mountains. This thoughtfully designed home features
This 5-bed | 5 1/2-bath modern estate offers unparalleled vistas of the ocean, islands & mountains, making it one of the most coveted properties in Hope Ranch. Positioned on 3.35 gated & private acres, it showcases panoramic views of the Channel Islands, dramatic sunsets over Campus Point & majestic Santa Ynez Mountains. Designed by Top 100 architect, Barry Berkus, this home features high-end
You can have it all with this mini ranch next to Hope Ranch. Enjoy the country life just 1 mile from major Santa Barbara shopping & restaurants. This compound features a corral, pool, 2 bedroom apartment, and usable, gated .47 acres on a private lane with Vieja Valley elementary 3/4 mile away. The main level has 3 bedrooms, 2 remodeled baths, remodeled kitchen with Carrara marble counters and
Privately positioned in one of Forte Ranch's most desirable settings, this upper-level 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo offers comfort, privacy, and convenience. Vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light create a spacious and inviting atmosphere. Recent updates include remodeled bathrooms, new high-end carpet, and an energy-efficient heating and air conditioning system. The open floor plan features
Tucked away in the highly sought-after community of Hope Ranch, this 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home spans approximately 1.5 acres of private, beautifully landscaped grounds. Encompassing roughly 2,782 square feet, the residence offers light-filled, open interiors that extend effortlessly to expansive decks and patios, ideal for relaxed entertaining and everyday indoor-outdoor living. Filtered ocean
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a legacy estate in Hope Ranch with two rare, adjoining parcels totaling 5.7 acres. The crown jewel is a recently rebuilt 5BD | 5.5BA modern residence originally envisioned by renowned architect Barry Berkus, showcasing sweeping, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and Santa Ynez Mountains. This thoughtfully designed home features
This 5-bed | 5 1/2-bath modern estate offers unparalleled vistas of the ocean, islands & mountains, making it one of the most coveted properties in Hope Ranch. Positioned on 3.35 gated & private acres, it showcases panoramic views of the Channel Islands, dramatic sunsets over Campus Point & majestic Santa Ynez Mountains. Designed by Top 100 architect, Barry Berkus, this home features high-end
Charming home for sale with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and a walk-out balcony with views located in the Forte Ranch community of Santa Barbara. Front entry opens in to the living room with a ceiling fan, plantation shutters, and access to the balcony. The dining room leads to the kitchen featuring newer stainless steel appliances, newer deep sink, and solid surface counters with backsplash. Down the
NOW VACANT: 5 Acre Commercial Greenhouse Property with potential to become Coastal Ranchette or continue with an Owner/User. OFFER IS ON THE TABLE FOR 625K BUY OUT OF CELL TOWER LEASE.Expansive Views of Coastal Mountains. Property has a loading dock and includes office trailer, shed and cooler and is in close proximity to the beach, hospital, Santa Barbara Airport and the University of California
Opportunity awaits with this single-story Santa Barbara home, priced to reflect renovation needs. Situated on a spacious, usable lot on a quiet, low-traffic street in the highly desirable Hope School District, this property offers renovation and income potential. The 2 bedroom, 2 bath main house is complemented by a detached structure with a full bathroom, offering flexible use with rental or
Erika BurrowsBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Discover modern luxury & sophistication in this elegant 1,233 sq ft townhome, featuring 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The open layout seamlessly connects the main living areas to a beautiful kitchen, complete with elegant finishes, ample counter space, and generous storage. Step outside to a large patio, perfect to host friends, enjoy morning coffee, or embrace picturesque coastal nights under
San Vicente, a gated community for adults 55+. Year-round heated pool and spa, tennis & pickleball courts, clubhouse with library,billiards and gym. This triplewide home offers over 1,700 sq. of living space on one level, set next to one of the most desirable locations backing up to a park meadow with mountain views. Unique floor plan with front living room, 2 separate office/hobby rooms, large
Jeff OienBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
This elegantly and fully remodeled contemporary estate is a masterclass in modern design. Sweeping mountain views, incredible natural light, and striking volume conjure the sense of a zen retreat. Set on 2.39 acres, this home seamlessly blends modern luxury with indoor-outdoor living. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views, while expansive terraces, a newly rebuilt pool, and a rooftop
Discover a versatile 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offering flexible living options. The main level features a 3-bedroom, 2-bath layout with recent improvements, including fresh interior paint and new carpeting. Upstairs, a separate 2-bedroom, 1-bath space with its own private entrance provides excellent flexibility for extended family, guests, or potential rental use. The backyard offers a patio
Furnished More Mesa Area CharmerAvailable for 30-night min. Next available dates Mar 20 - June 30, 2026 and Sept 1 - Dec 30, 2026 only. This remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is light, bright, and beautiful. The open common area includes the kitchen, living room, and dining room, all with oak wood floors. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances and new cabinets. The backyard is perfect
Private and serene vintage Spanish home in Hope Ranch with breathtaking lake, Country Club, and mountain views. This single-level 2BD/2BA blends timeless charm with modern updates, featuring vaulted wood-beam ceilings, an elegant kitchen with high-end appliances, and stylishly remodeled baths. The covered porch and patio are perfect for entertaining or relaxing while enjoying the view. Lush
Enjoy a fully furnished studio suite in our hotel at an affordable rate with free wi-fi, free utilities and free premium cable. Each studio suite has a full kitchen with full-size refrigerator, stovetop and microwave, and has a flexible workspace and plenty of storage. All our hotels are pet-friendly and have on-site guest laundry available. Plus, there are no long-term commitments and you can
Tucked away on a private road in a quiet cul-de-sac, this charming cottage offers privacy and a true retreat-like feel, set behind the main home. Enjoy a large hedged front patio ideal for relaxing or entertaining. The cozy living room features T&G Douglas fir walls and flows into the kitchen with newer cabinetry, granite countertops, sink, and refrigerator.The primary bedroom opens to a
Property Id: 2313428Beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 1.75 bathroom, 1,475 sq ft furnished residence located in a quiet, safe Santa Barbara neighborhood. Designed for extended stays with preference for 90+ day tenancies. Monthly rent is seasonal and reflects turnkey, utilities-included offering (water, electricity, and gas included up to $550/month). Discounted pricing is available for
This charming 1940s ranch home in Hope Ranch is available fully furnished starting May. Perched on a knoll with mature oaks on 1.5 acres, it offers mountain views and private beach access. The classic one-story layout includes 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, with flexible living areas that open to the outdoors. Perfect for hosting guests or family, with tasteful furnishings for comfort and style. A
Elisabeth HalstedBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
For rent to a quiet person, a modern, recently tastefully renovated unfurnished studio apartment, with a private entrance, full bath and kitchenette. Natural light illuminates the space from sliding glass doors in a tranquil neighborhood, with a foliage view, a closet and storage. Utilities included. Close to UCSB, grocery stores, coffee shops and restaurants. $2,000/mo.,one months security
Enjoy an extended stay in one of Santa Barbara's most coveted gated communities. This elevated family ranch house features ocean views, outdoor dining, & stylish renovations. With four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a vast kitchen & living spaces, this Hope Ranch House is the perfect choice for anyone looking to settle in. Hope Ranch's tennis courts, walking trails and private beach guarantee your
Danielle DarinBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Well back from the road, Quiet area. Mature trees and fruit trees, lemon, peach, orange. Large off street parking area for one car, or two parked end to end.
$3,595 per month
1 Bed
1 Bath
Separate Detached Guest House on private cul-de-sac Lane. Has just been remodeled and new landscaping for anremodeled and new landscaping for a private zen vibe. Includes a very private safe large fenced sun lit astroturf yard & some Mountain View's. Ideal for kiddos & pets. Located in sought after Hope School District and blocks from La Colina Junior High & Little Angle Preschool. Off Street
Timm DelaneyBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Beautiful one-bedroom, attached residence with private entrance and enclosed patio.Unfurnished and recently updated with new paint, carpet, flooring, stove, and bathroom fixtures.Located in a quiet neighborhood between Santa Barbara and Goleta near Turnpike and Hollister, close to bike path, bus lines, and shopping.On-site laundry, utilities and Wi-Fi included.Non-smoking
Welcome to one of the most magnificent Hope Ranch estates, offering unparalleled Ocean Views from the Home, an Expansive Pool and Spa, with Gardens, Waterfalls and Ponds, all taken care of for you and included in your stay. *January to February 2026 Special Opening.* This 1.6-acre property, Villa de Mandevilla, is remarkable and features Koi and Turtles, the stunning Heated Pool with Fountains,
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
