The Best Private Clubs to Join in Montecito and Santa Barbara

Members Only: Discovering Santa Barbara's Elite Club Scene

1. Montecito Club | Tennis, pickleball, golf, swim, social hour & dining
   Nestled in the hills of Montecito with breathtaking ocean views, this recently renovated club boasts a championship golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus. Its blend of luxury amenities and relaxed California ambiance makes it ideal for affluent professionals and families seeking an exclusive retreat with exceptional dining and social opportunities.
   
   
   
2. La Cumbre Country Club | Tennis, pickleball, golf, swim, & social hour
   With its immaculate 18-hole golf course as the centerpiece, La Cumbre offers a traditional country club experience in a family-friendly atmosphere. The club excels at balancing competitive golf tournaments with social events, making it perfect for multi-generational families who value both sporting excellence and community connection.
   
   
   
3. Valley Club of Montecito | Golf, social hour & dining
   This historic gem features a classic Alister MacKenzie-designed golf course that golf purists revere for its strategic layout and pristine condition. With its understated elegance and emphasis on golf traditions, the Valley Club best serves discerning golf enthusiasts who appreciate architectural brilliance and a low-key, sophisticated environment.
   
   
   
4. Miramar Club | Beach, social hour & dining
   Located adjacent to the Rosewood Miramar Beach resort, this exclusive beach club offers members privileged access to one of Santa Barbara's most beautiful coastlines. Its intimate setting and premier beachfront location make it ideal for ocean lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape with upscale amenities and unparalleled sunset views.
   
   
   
5. Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club | Swim, tennis, social hour & dining
   This iconic oceanfront club features a spectacular Olympic-size swimming pool overlooking Butterfly Beach. With its distinctive art deco architecture and unmatched coastal setting, the Coral Casino best serves those who value maritime traditions, aquatic recreation, and sophisticated social gatherings in a historic setting.
   
   
   
   
6. Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club | Polo, racquet, social hour & dining
   Home to world-class polo competitions since 1911, this prestigious club offers the thrill of equestrian sports in a picturesque setting. With multiple playing fields and comprehensive facilities, it's perfect for polo enthusiasts, equestrians, and social members who enjoy the excitement and elegance of polo culture.
   
   
   
7. University Club of Santa Barbara | Social hour & dining
   Housed in a charming Spanish Colonial building downtown, this club emphasizes intellectual and cultural pursuits alongside social activities. Its intimate atmosphere and focus on thought-provoking events make it ideal for academics, professionals, and community leaders who value stimulating conversation and downtown convenience.
   
   
   
8. Birnam Wood Golf Club | Golf, tennis & pickleball
   Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., this exclusive golf community combines exceptional course conditions with luxurious amenities. Its secluded Montecito location and emphasis on privacy make it perfect for accomplished golfers and high-net-worth individuals seeking a discreet club experience with impeccable service and refined social events.
   
   
   
9. Santa Barbara Yacht Club | Boating, social hour & dining
   As one of the oldest yacht clubs on the West Coast, this maritime institution offers exceptional sailing programs and harbor-front facilities. Its combination of nautical tradition and modern amenities serves both serious sailors and social members who appreciate the club's rich history and spectacular harbor setting.
   
   
   
10. Santa Barbara Club | Social hour & dining
    Founded in 1892, this distinguished downtown institution represents the pinnacle of Santa Barbara's social heritage. Its historic building and tradition of excellence make it ideal for established professionals and community leaders who value privacy, refined dining, and the club's central location for business and social gatherings.
    
    
    
11. Knowlwood Tennis Club | Tennis & swim
    This boutique tennis facility provides an intimate setting with expertly maintained courts and personalized instruction. Its friendly atmosphere and tennis-focused approach best serves dedicated players of all ages who prefer a specialized club experience over larger multi-purpose facilities.
    
    
    
12. Santa Barbara Tennis Club | Tennis, swim & fitness
    Offering an expansive tennis complex with multiple court surfaces, this vibrant club combines serious tennis with comprehensive fitness facilities. Its diverse programming and welcoming environment make it ideal for active families and tennis enthusiasts seeking quality instruction, regular play, and a health-focused social community.
    
    
    
13. Cathedral Oaks Athletic Club | Fitness, tennis & swim
    Set against the scenic foothills of Santa Barbara, this comprehensive fitness destination combines state-of-the-art facilities with personalized service. Its expansive campus features exceptional tennis courts, extensive aquatics programs, and diverse fitness offerings that attract active individuals and families. The club's balanced approach to wellness, competitive sports, and social recreation makes it particularly well-suited for health-conscious members of all ages seeking a vibrant community atmosphere without the formality of traditional country clubs.