What the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club offers

The Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club is a private membership organization located in Carpinteria, California, about 12 miles south of Santa Barbara. The club operates polo fields, tennis courts, and a clubhouse with dining facilities. Members pay annual dues and can participate in polo matches, take polo lessons, play tennis, and attend social events on the grounds.

The club hosts polo matches during its season, typically running from spring through fall, and offers instruction for people learning to play polo for the first time. Tennis facilities are available year-round. The club also holds events and tournaments that members can enter or spectate.

Unlike public recreation facilities, membership is required to use most of the club's amenities. The club does not operate as a municipal program or government service — it is a private organization with its own membership requirements and fee structure.

Key Takeaways

  • Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club is a private membership club in Carpinteria offering polo instruction, polo match participation, and tennis facilities.
  • Membership requires paying annual dues, and the specific cost and membership categories vary and should be confirmed directly with the club.
  • The club runs a polo season with matches and lessons, and tennis courts operate year-round for members.
  • Prospective members typically contact the club directly to learn about current membership options and any waiting lists or sponsorship requirements.

Membership categories and dues

The club offers different membership levels, though the exact categories and annual costs change over time. Full membership typically grants access to all facilities and events. Some clubs in this category also offer social memberships, which provide access to dining and events but may not include full use of polo or tennis facilities.

Annual dues are separate from lesson fees, match entry fees, or other program costs. A person interested in learning polo may pay for instruction separately from membership dues. Tennis court time may also have additional hourly or seasonal fees depending on the membership level.

To find current membership costs and what each level includes, contact the club directly. Membership structures and pricing are set by the club's board and can shift from year to year.

How to inquire about membership

The first step is to call or visit the club's office to ask about current membership openings and what the process involves. Some private clubs maintain waiting lists or require that a current member sponsor a new applicant. The Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club may have similar requirements, though this varies.

When you contact the club, ask whether membership is currently open to new members, what the process process looks like, and whether sponsorship by an existing member is needed. The staff can also explain what each membership level includes and answer questions about lesson programs or tournament participation.

The club's contact information and office hours are the fastest way to get accurate, current details about joining.

Polo lessons and instruction

The club offers polo instruction for beginners and players at other skill levels. Lessons are typically taught by professional instructors and may be offered in group or private formats. Lesson costs are usually separate from membership dues.

Before taking lessons, you do not necessarily need to own a horse or have prior riding experience — the club can advise on what beginners need to start. Instruction usually covers horsemanship, the rules of polo, and basic playing technique.

Lesson schedules and availability change seasonally, so contact the club to learn what instruction is currently offered and how to reserve a spot.

Tennis facilities and court access

Members have access to tennis courts on the club grounds. Court availability and reservation procedures depend on your membership level. Some memberships may include unlimited court time, while others require booking in advance or have time limits.

The club may offer tennis lessons or clinics as well, though these are often billed separately from court access. Tennis facilities operate year-round, unlike the polo season which is more limited.

Ask about court reservation procedures and any additional fees when you inquire about membership.

Polo season and match schedule

The club's polo season typically runs from spring through early fall, though exact dates vary by year. During the season, the club hosts matches on weekends and some weekday evenings. Members can participate in matches as players or attend as spectators.

Match schedules are posted on the club's website or available by calling the office. Spectators may or may not need to pay an entry fee — this varies depending on the match and the club's policies.

If you are interested in playing in matches, the club can explain what level of skill and experience is required and how to register for tournament play.

Dining and social events

The club operates a clubhouse with dining facilities where members can eat and socialize. The restaurant or café may be open during match days and other club events, and sometimes for regular dining hours depending on the season.

The club also hosts social events, parties, and special occasions throughout the year. Membership typically includes access to these spaces and events, though some may have additional costs or require advance registration.

Details about dining hours, menus, and upcoming events are available from the club directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to know how to ride a horse to join?

No. The club offers polo lessons for beginners, and instruction covers both horsemanship and polo technique. Many members start with no riding experience. However, if you want to play polo competitively, you will need to progress through lessons first.

Can I visit the club before joining?

This depends on the club's visitor policy. Some private clubs allow prospective members to tour the facilities or watch a match before explore. Call the club to ask whether tours or spectator visits are available and what the process is.

What if I only want to play tennis, not polo?

The club may offer tennis-only or social memberships that provide court access without polo participation. Contact the club to ask what membership options are available for tennis players specifically.

How much does polo instruction cost?

Lesson costs vary depending on whether you take group or private instruction and the instructor's experience level. These fees are separate from membership dues. The club can provide current pricing when you call.

Is there a waiting list to join?

Some private clubs maintain waiting lists, and the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club may as well. The only way to know is to contact the club directly and ask about current membership availability and any queue for new members.