If we were asked to name one attraction not to be missed on a Santa Barbara visit, we’d unequivocally say polo at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club. Established in 1911, the Club is the third oldest polo facility in the United States and is world-renowned for its four lush polo fields and international outdoor competition.

Especially on a Sunday, a game or two brings together all of the excitement and glamour that makes Santa Barbara ne plus ultra on the West Coast: fashionable women, handsome gentlemen, well-groomed thoroughbred ponies in action, high performance cars, delicious food and prized local wines.

A Sunday at polo is both a high octane social event plus a super charged sports competition. International in scope, players come from far and wide to compete. You may even catch a glimpse of Prince Harry who we saw several times playing on Ralph Lauren model Nacho Figueras’s team.

There are usually two games on a Sunday and we recommend reserving tickets in advance. That way you can choose seats close to the action, in the shade or by the bar. Fieldside restaurant has elevated the food as well as the ambience of the historic clubhouse and not only serves delicious snacks during the games but relaxed superb dinners.

The Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club brilliantly organizes these events with plenty of smiling staff. Nothing fazes them, making for a perfect afternoon. Valet parking makes it all a breeze. The Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club is the premier destination for polo on the West Coast and is truly the jewel of the fabulous and fabled American Riviera. The season runs from May through mid-October. For tickets, https://sbpolo.ticketsauce.com.