Few communities celebrate local agriculture quite like Santa Barbara. With Certified Farmers Markets operating six days a week throughout the South Coast and Santa Ynez Valley, visitors have nearly daily opportunities to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, seafood, artisan foods, and specialty agricultural products directly from the people who grow them. Operated by the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market Association (SBCFMA), these markets have become an essential part of the region’s culture, supporting local farmers while connecting residents and visitors with the bounty of California’s Central Coast.
Whether you’re planning a picnic at the beach, shopping for seasonal produce, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, Santa Barbara’s farmers markets offer one of the most authentic ways to experience the local community.
A Tradition Since 1979
The first Santa Barbara farmers market opened near the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara in 1979, making it one of California’s earliest certified farmers markets. In 1983, local growers established the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market Association, a nonprofit, producer-owned organization dedicated to connecting consumers directly with California farmers. Today, approximately 130 member farms participate in six weekly markets across Santa Barbara, Goleta, Montecito, Carpinteria, and Solvang.
Unlike many outdoor markets, certified farmers markets require vendors to sell products they have personally grown or produced, ensuring freshness, transparency, and support for local agriculture.
Why Visit?
Every market offers a colorful selection of locally grown and California-produced foods.
Visitors will discover:
- Fresh seasonal fruits
- Organic vegetables
- Citrus
- Strawberries
- Avocados
- Fresh herbs
- Cut flowers
- Artisan breads
- Local honey
- Eggs
- Specialty cheeses
- Olive oils
- Fresh seafood
- Grass-fed meats
- Wine from regional vineyards
Because the produce is harvested shortly before market day, many chefs consider Santa Barbara’s farmers markets among the finest in California.
South Coast Farmers Market Schedule
| Day | Location | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | Old Town Santa Barbara Farmers Market | 3:00–7:00 PM (seasonal hours vary slightly) |
| Thursday | Carpinteria Certified Farmers Market | 2:30–6:30 PM |
| Friday | Montecito Farmers Market | 8:00–11:15 AM |
| Saturday | Downtown Santa Barbara Farmers Market | 8:00 AM–1:00 PM |
| Sunday | Goleta Farmers Market | 10:00 AM–2:00 PM |
Market Locations
The Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market Association operates six weekly markets throughout the region.
Tuesday
Old Town Santa Barbara Farmers Market
- Lower State Street
- Afternoon / Early Evening
A favorite among downtown residents, local chefs, and restaurant buyers.
Thursday
Carpinteria Farmers Market
- Downtown Carpinteria
A relaxed neighborhood market just steps from Linden Avenue shops and restaurants.
Friday
Montecito Farmers Market
- Coast Village Road
A smaller, upscale market popular with Montecito residents.
Saturday
Downtown Santa Barbara Farmers Market
- State Street & Carrillo Street
The largest and most popular market in the region, featuring dozens of local farms and specialty food vendors. It has become one of Santa Barbara’s signature weekly events.
Sunday
Goleta Farmers Market
- Camino Real Marketplace
An excellent neighborhood market serving Goleta families and visitors.
Seasonal California Produce
One of the greatest pleasures of shopping the farmers market is discovering what’s currently in season.
Depending on the time of year, visitors may find:
Spring
- Strawberries
- Artichokes
- Peas
- Lettuce
- Asparagus
Summer
- Peaches
- Nectarines
- Tomatoes
- Sweet Corn
- Melons
- Berries
Autumn
- Apples
- Persimmons
- Pumpkins
- Figs
- Grapes
Winter
- Citrus
- Avocados
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Leafy Greens
The changing seasons ensure that every visit offers something new.
A Favorite Among Local Chefs
Santa Barbara’s restaurants have long relied on the Certified Farmers Markets for fresh ingredients. It’s common to see chefs shopping alongside residents early Saturday morning, selecting produce harvested only hours before. This close relationship between local farms and local restaurants has helped establish Santa Barbara as one of California’s premier culinary destinations.
More Than Produce
Although fresh produce remains the primary attraction, the markets also feature:
- Fresh flowers
- Farm-raised meats
- Seafood
- Artisan breads
- Fresh pasta
- Olive oils
- Specialty jams
- Nuts
- Local honey
- Fresh herbs
- California wines
Unlike many community markets, certified farmers markets emphasize agricultural products rather than arts, crafts, or imported merchandise.
Visitor Tips
To enjoy the best experience:
- Arrive early for the best produce selection.
- Bring reusable shopping bags.
- Carry an insulated bag if purchasing seafood, meat, or dairy products.
- Bring cash or a credit card; many vendors accept both.
- Don’t hesitate to ask farmers about growing methods, seasonal availability, or cooking suggestions.
- Visit more than one market during your stay—each location has its own personality.
Quick Facts
Organization: Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market Association (SBCFMA)
Founded: 1983
First Santa Barbara Market: 1979
Markets: 6 weekly certified markets
Member Farms: Approximately 130
Products:
- Fresh Produce
- Flowers
- Seafood
- Meats
- Honey
- Bread
- Olive Oil
- Wine
- Specialty Agricultural Products
SantaBarbaraLocal Editorial Note
The Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Markets represent far more than places to buy fresh produce—they showcase the agricultural heritage that has shaped the Central Coast for generations. Whether you’re gathering ingredients for a beach picnic, discovering seasonal fruits you’ve never tasted before, or chatting with the farmers who grew your food, a visit to one of these markets offers an authentic glimpse into the lifestyle that makes Santa Barbara unique. For visitors seeking a true local experience, few activities are more rewarding than spending a morning at the farmers market.