LENS Locals’

GET THE INSIDE SCOOP ON WHERE TO EAT, DRINK AND PLAY FROM THESE IN-THE-KNOW GOLETA RESIDENTS.

Dacia Harwood Doug Yartz

A longtime Goleta resident and local history buff, Dacia moved to the area to attend UCSB in 1993 and never left. She spent 12 years working for the Goleta Valley Historical Society before taking on her current post as Executive Director of the Santa Barbara Historical Museum.

What do you love most about living in Goleta?

Goleta is a perfect combination—it is so family friendly and relaxed, but with the incredible cultural opportunities of a college town. Last year my son, who recently graduated from the (incredible!) Dos Pueblos Engineering Academy, had an internship at Neal Feay, a cutting-edge aluminum manufacturer.

What says “quintessential Goleta” to you?

Attending a free concert at Stow House or a day at the Lemon Festival.

What’s your favorite nature walking spot?

I love to wander through Coal Oil Point to the Ellwood Bluffs. It is truly amazing to have such a beautiful area for the community to enjoy. Plus, I love the fascinating old building, polo barn and cross left from the 1920s-era Campbell Ranch. The buildings that remain were designed by Mary Craig, one of California's most significant female architects.

How would you spend a perfect Goleta day?

Brunch at CAYA in The Leta Hotel, the farmers’ market at Camino Real Marketplace and a sunset picnic overlooking the ocean at Coal Oil Point.

What are your top three go-to restaurants/bars/eateries?

Our favorite family dinners are spent at Goleta Sushi. Once a week, we get a to-go dinner from Pollofino, which has the best chicken anywhere. A nightcap is best at The Imperial in Old Town Goleta for excellent cocktails and a cool modern tiki vibe.

What cultural event(s) or festival do you most look forward to every year?

That is a toss-up! I love the World of Pinot Noir at the Bacara. I also love Fiesta Ranchera at Stow House. This year, I am particularly excited because my son Jack, an accomplished flamenco dancer, will perform as “Spirit of Fiesta.”

Born and raised in Goleta, Doug Yartz opened Surf Country in 1999 and quickly became the community’s trusted purveyor of all things surf and skate related. He also offers private surf lessons and board rentals.

What do you love most about living and working in Goleta?

The weather, the overall laid-back lifestyle and the fact that everything you need is within less than 10 minutes.

How would you spend a perfect Goleta day?

Surfing at Campus Point with my wife and two sons, taking a nap and enjoying an early dinner.

What are your top three go-to restaurants?

Domingos for breakfast, Pepe Delgados for Mexican food, Goleta Sushi House and Chuck’s of Hawaii for date night with my wife.

What’s your favorite walking/hiking/biking spot?

The bike path from Turnpike to Goleta Beach and the More Mesa hike to the ocean.

What cultural event(s) or festival do you most look forward to every year?

Goleta Old Town Holiday Parade.

What says “quintessential Goleta” to you? Spending a Sunday afternoon at the beach.

Name your go-to local libation: A Mai Tai at The Imperial.

Any other favorite local spots?

Refugio State Beach for a day trip or camping.