The Mesa $750,000- $3,000,000
Education: Monroe/Washington Elementary; La Cumbre; San Marcos/Santa Barbara Sr. High
Just minutes from bustling Downtown, the Mesa is an entire world away. The rolling, green expanse of Shoreline Park slopes down to West Beach, the harbor and Downtown on one side; the Douglas Preserve, Hendry’s Beach and Elings Park border it on the other. Though largely undeveloped before World War II, the Mesa’s prime geography (with unparalleled channel, harbor and mountain views, not to mention a laid-back, casual atmosphere) quickly made it one of Santa Barbara's most desirable locations. With quick access to quieter, "locals only beaches", a surprising variety of cozy restaurants, and weather that is warmer in winter and cooler in summer than the surrounding areas, the Mesa has it all.