In 2010, a small little yoga studio opened in Santa Barbara and offered a free one-month unlimited yoga membership. As an enthusiast of all things free, I quickly joined and never looked back. Perhaps you are curious and ready to uncover the untold secrets behind one of Santa Barbara’s most renowned yoga studios. Or maybe you want to go to the studio and are unsure if it’s the right place for you? Whatever the case, this article will give you an honest and in-depth review of Sol Seek Yoga Studio Santa Barbara.
Review of Sol Seek Yoga Santa Barbara
If you’re new to Santa Barbara and looking for a yoga studio, chances are you have come across Sol Seek Yoga.
This studio is nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, a picturesque coastal city, known as the American Riviera.
What’s unique is that Sol Seek offers more than just a yoga experience – it’s a journey toward self-discovery and transformation.
I joined this studio when it was formerly known as Divintree a little over a decade ago. This studio has evolved significantly since its inception.
What makes Sol Seek special?
From awe-inspiring facilities to transformative classes led by the masters of their craft, Sol Seek Yoga is not your average studio.
I love the variety of classes that have revolutionized my yoga practice. Going to this yoga studio and being part of the community has been an instrumental part of my self-care.
Most importantly, I appreciate the exceptional instructors, the Sol Seek community, and fellow yogis who have become close friends.
Review of Sol Seek Yoga Facilities
Sol Seek Yoga is located in downtown Santa Barbara off Lower State Street. If you’re walking or riding a bike then you don’t have to worry about parking since it can be hard to find.
Where to park
There is street parking located on De La Guerra Street but oftentimes it is full. I recommend parking in the nearby lot close to Marshalls and walking ½ a block to the studio.
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Give yourself time to find parking because it can be stressful and frustrating. I wish the studio had their own parking spaces but due to the prime location on lower State Street, that is not possible.
Once you have parked your car, you walk down the street and locate the studio on De La Guerra Street.
Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by the front desk yogi and given a mini tour of the space.
Even more, as a regular, you will be known on a first-name basis and feel as if you’re visiting a friend’s home.
This has been a big difference for me since I previously went to Core Power yoga and felt like a stranger going into a sweaty boot camp!
What does the studio look like?
From the moment you enter the studio, you’ll be struck by the natural light streaming in through large windows, bathing the entrance in a warm and inviting glow.
The spaciousness of the studio is complemented by high ceilings, giving you a sense of openness and freedom as you move through your practice.
There’s a lot of natural light and warm colors so overall it feels like an inviting and soothing space.
What’s unique about this yoga studio?
There are two different rooms to practice and outdoor classes you can try.
The larger “Sunroom” is generally for classes that are sometimes heated. It never gets so hot that it is uncomfortable. Instead, teachers focus on making sure that the room maintains the perfect temperature, so you can focus on your breathing and movement without distractions.
In addition, two large windows can be opened during class which allows fresh air flow and is more comfortable, especially during the hot summer season.
The smaller “Moon room” is cooler and has a beautiful mural on the wall.
I love practicing restorative and yin classes in the Moon room. This room is more intimate due to the size of the classes. In the evening there’s a light fixture on the ceiling that changes color so it’s very tranquil.
Overall, the studio space has been designed with the utmost care and attention to detail. The modern and serene atmosphere instantly creates a sense of calm, making it the perfect sanctuary for your yoga practice.
What is missing from the yoga studio?
Although I love this studio, you need to know that Sol Seek yoga is a facility that does not have showers or locker rooms.
Be prepared to leave class stinky and sweaty. They do offer a scented wet cloth to wipe yourself down if you want but it’s not equivalent to a shower.
Despite having a love-hate relationship with Core Power yoga, I did love having access to their spa-like showers and locker rooms, complete with organic toiletries.
Since there are no lockers at this studio there are small cubbies where you can store your shoes and personal items. You can also change your clothes in the bathroom but don’t bring a lot of belongings since there is no storage space.
Another thing missing is that there are no free snacks or food.
What I love about Yoga Soup, another local Santa Barbara yoga studio, is that there is always an offering of snacks including a donation-based soup and oatmeal bar.
There’s free tea, coffee, and water at Sol Seek but if you tend to get hungry before or after class (like I do) you can purchase a snack or bring your food.
Review of Sol Seek Yoga Santa Barbara classes
Although I have not taken every single class that is offered through this studio, I can honestly attest to the fact that I’ve taken a majority of them.
As a result, I can be brutally honest about the pros and cons of the classes at this studio.
I have taken yoga classes at most of the studios in town including Core Power Yoga, Yoga Soup, Power of Your Om, and the Santa Barbara YMCA.
If you are someone who wants to just get a quick workout and leave, then this might not be the studio for you.
Instead, if you want to go to a studio that will provide a transformative experience, an opportunity to connect with your spirituality and belong to a community, then this is the place to go.
There are a variety of classes so don’t be afraid if you’re new to yoga and a beginner.
Although I’ve been a yogi for nearly 20 years, I go to one of my favorite teachers Sierra’s Flow Yoga classes weekly since it’s important to strengthen my foundational poses.
Eager to get your strength training, cardio, and yoga all at the same time? Then try a Burn class which will get your heart pumping and muscles sore!
Want to dive deeper into your practice and connect with your mind, body, and spirit? Try any class taught by Natalie, Amelia, or Luke.
In general, all of the instructors at the studio are seasoned practitioners with different styles and techniques.
You may try one class and teacher which may work better for your style than another. I recommend trying a variety of classes and teachers when you first start.
Ready to start and not sure which class to take?
Want to know one of the best things about this studio?
There are classes offered throughout the day!
Each one is designed to guide you on a journey of self-discovery, deepening your connection to your mind, body, and spirit.
Experienced instructors will skillfully lead you through a sequence of poses and breathing exercises in these classes, helping you unlock your full potential on the mat.
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced yogi, Sol Seek Yoga offers a variety of classes to suit your individual needs and preferences.
Their Hatha yoga classes focus on alignment and holding poses, allowing you to build strength and flexibility in a safe and supported environment.
For those looking for a more dynamic and vigorous practice, their Vinyasa flow classes offer a continuous sequence of poses that are synchronized with the breath, creating a moving meditation that challenges both the body and the mind.
If you’re seeking a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection, Sol Seek Yoga’s Yin yoga classes are perfect for you. These classes incorporate long-held poses that target the deep connective tissues of the body, promoting relaxation, flexibility, and inner stillness.
For adventurous souls, their monthly arm balance workshop will help you learn how to defy gravity.
Meet the Instructors: The Master’s Behind Sol Seek Yoga
No matter which class you choose, you can expect expert guidance and personalized attention from the highly skilled instructors at Sol Seek Yoga.
These instructors are not only masters of their craft, but they are also passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping students reach their full potential.
Their warm and nurturing approach creates a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, allowing you to explore and expand your yoga practice at your own pace.
Each instructor at Sol Seek Yoga is handpicked for their extensive expertise and commitment to providing an exceptional experience for every student. They bring a deep understanding of yoga philosophy, anatomy, and alignment to each class, ensuring you receive the highest quality instruction.
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Whether you are a seasoned yogi or just starting your journey, these instructors can meet you where you are and guide you toward your goals.
Are the instructors any good?
What sets the instructors at Sol Seek Yoga apart is not just their technical proficiency, but also their genuine passion for helping others.
They are dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space where students can explore their practice, ask questions, and receive individualized support.
Their ability to connect with each student personally sets them apart from other yoga studios in the Santa Barbara area.
What Other Students Are Saying
If you think my review of Sol Seek Yoga Santa Barbara is biased, you may be curious about the opinions of other people who have been going to this studio.
Review of Sol Seek Yoga Santa Barbara untold stories of the students
You may think this review is a bit biased since I love this space but I also talked to other students to get their impression.
Review of Sol Seek Yoga from an older Yogi
A few years ago, I invited my mom Laya to start going to class with me. She was not too enthusiastic because she was in her early 70s and was worried that she would stand out among a group of young hipster yogis. I assured her that Sol Seek is diverse, accepting, and inviting.
After going to the studio for the past four years, my mom shared that the classes have exceeded her expectations, not only in terms of physical benefits but also in fostering a deep sense of self-awareness.
She loves Natalie’s class because it has encouraged her to practice mindfulness and gain more inner peace.
Laya described that she loves the studio’s truly holistic approach to yoga, allowing her to tap into a state of tranquility she had never experienced before.
Thoughts from a beginner
Another yogi, Reza, praised the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere at Sol Seek Yoga. He commended the instructors for their unwavering dedication to ensuring that all students, regardless of their skill level, felt comfortable and supported.
Reza also highlighted how the studio’s commitment to creating a judgment-free space allowed him to fully embrace his practice without any self-consciousness. This supportive environment, he noted, is what sets Sol Seek Yoga apart from other studios in the area.
And my personal story?
During lockdown, I was awarded a one-month unlimited yoga membership to Sol Seek as they were honoring healthcare heroes. My chronic stress and anxiety was heightened due to COVID-19 and lockdown.
The result?
Sol Seek has become my sanctuary. After practicing daily for a month, I realized how much calmer, tranquil, and relaxed I felt.
More importantly, I appreciated the sense of community with my peers and teachers. Being in lockdown was extremely challenging for me because of my anxiety and depression.
Having a daily yoga class and community helped me feel less isolated and gave me something to look forward to every day.
Virtual yoga 101
Furthermore, I met most of my instructors online before I met them in person.
Amelia was living in Bali at the time so I learned all about her experience residing there.
Two of my favorite instructors, Azure and Jessica helped me decompress with restorative yoga classes on Sunday before the workweek began. I called it my 50-pound mental stress weight loss class!
These stories serve as a reminder that Sol Seek Yoga is not just a place to work out; it’s a refuge for those seeking inner peace and healing.
The experiences of my mom, Reza, and me are just a few among the many glowing testimonials from Sol Seek Yoga’s students.
These authentic and heartfelt accounts reaffirm the studio’s commitment to providing a transformative and inclusive yoga experience.
But the honest review of Sol Seek Yoga Santa Barbara doesn’t end here; let’s find out how much it costs to attend classes at Sol Seek Yoga Santa Barbara.
Cost of classes at Sol Seek Yoga Santa Barbara
One reason that often impacts people’s ability to go to yoga classes or join a studio is the cost.
Not sure if you’re ready to make a full commitment? You can try the one-month unlimited special and see what it’s like for less than $60.
The new membership is close to $2 a class which is less than the cup of coffee you buy!
Individual classes cost anywhere from $15-32 and you can book a class on their website here or drop by the studio right before the class and pay at the front desk.
Did you say affordable yoga classes?
Sol Seek Yoga offers scholarships and inclusive yoga for everyone. If you want a membership but can’t afford the monthly rate, you can speak with the manager and they’ll work something out with you.
Ultimately, Sol Seek is committed to inclusion and accessibility. They also offer Give Back Classes and Free Community Classes you can try.
Perhaps you don’t live near Sol Seek Yoga Santa Barbara and still want to try the classes?
Then you’re in luck because a majority of their classes are also live via Zoom so you feel like you’re in the studio with your classmates.
I tried this option for a year because I was not comfortable going inside the studio in the early days of the pandemic. I enjoyed doing classes remotely in the comfort of my own home.
So if you want to try the classes and live elsewhere then this is a great option for you.
An unlimited virtual membership will set you back $60 and you can try classes in all the studios including those in the Manhattan Beach studios.
Is it worth it to pay for a monthly unlimited membership?
I always get asked this question by people I invite to the studio and I tell them it depends on a few factors:
- How often do you plan on attending yoga classes?
- Are you ready to make a 3-month commitment?
- Can you afford the membership?
If you are planning on attending 5 or more classes a month then it makes sense to have a monthly membership since a drop-in is roughly $25 or more.
If you’re not ready to make a 3-month commitment, you can also buy a 10-class pack or even a travel pass if you’re in the area for a short time.
You can find out more information on membership benefits and rates and decide what to do next.
Wrap-up
Overall I have cherished my experience at Sol Seek Yoga in Santa Barbara and it has surpassed my expectations.
You too will love the facility, diverse classes, and highly skilled instructors.
Whether you are new to yoga or a seasoned yogi, Sol Seek Yoga will take your practice to new heights.
Now is the time to seize the opportunity to be a part of this captivating yoga community. Book your next class today and unlock the endless possibilities that await you at Sol Seek Yoga.
Embrace the healing power of their offerings, and you’ll discover a path to self-discovery and inner peace.
Are you ready to step onto your mat and let Sol Seek Yoga in Santa Barbara transform you inside and out?
What experiences have you had at your yoga studio? I’m curious about what types of yoga studios are out there and what makes yours special. If you have been to Sol Seek Yoga please share your experience and comments below.
32 Responses
Great review. I haven’t done much yoga, but lots of cardio and strength training. You give thorough and honest review.
Thanks so much for the positive feedback.
I have always wanted to try yoga. I like that yoga studio. It looks tranquil indeed.
Hi Lynndee yoga is quite an incredible exercise and the studio is my home away from home!
This looks like a charming studio to take yoga classes. I like taking yoga for fitness and relaxation purposes. I live about an hour away from Santa Barbara and would like to visit here one day!
Hey Jen it is a charming studio and I’m excited that you only live 1 hour away from Santa Barbara. I hope to see you in class sometime!
Love how this Sol Seek Yoga studio emphasizes the holistic approach to wellness and mindfulness ❤️. A must-visit for anyone looking to deepen their yoga practice and find inner peace. Thank you for sharing such detailed insights! 🙂
I appreciate the positive feedback. You are right! Sol Seek Yoga is a studio that emphasizes wellness and mindfulness in their practice and is a little gem of a studio.
this looks like a great yoga studio and now am tempted to look for something like this
Hi there I do hope you find a place similar to this studio near where you live! If not, you can always try a virtual class with Sol Seek!
I’ve never tried yoga before. This sounds like a wonderful place to check out! I’d love to give it a try.
Hi there I do hope you try it! Whether it’s Sol Seek or any other yoga studio, it’s nice to have a place to go to rather than do it from home since practicing with others makes the experience so much better.
This yoga studio sounds wonderful and perfect for me. I wish I lived closer I would surely visit this yoga studio; I’ve been looking for a small yoga class. The one I have seen here has over 200 people and I just don’t want to be in a class that big. Yoga is soooo good for the mind and body, I need to get back on track.
Hey Lisa I feel you. I would also struggle being in a class with 200 people since it doesn’t feel as personalized to me. I’m not sure where you live but sometimes local community colleges or adult ed schools offer yoga classes and those tend to be smaller. You can also try online classes and see how that feels for you. I agree with the benefits of yoga for the mind and body and hope you find something close to you soon. In the meantime, just get back on your mat and do your own practice since that itself is healing for us.
This sounds and looks like such a lovely place to do yoga classes. It is good that they have different types of yoga available as they can vary quite a bit.
Hey Melanie I agree with you that a variety of yoga is beneficial since we’re not all super yogis who want to power through class. I like the restorative yoga classes especially after a stressful day. Although I’ve practiced for over 20 years, going to level 1 classes is preferred since we’re focusing on alignment and our breath.
I’m excited to explore the transformative classes and welcoming community you’ve described. Can’t wait to experience the serene atmosphere and meet the dedicated instructors you’ve highlighted.
Hi Lavanda I’m so thrilled that you’re inspired to try to transformative experience of Sol Seek Yoga. If you find me in class please come say hello since the community I’ve found has been one of the reasons I keep going back!
I’ve seen people doing yoga in the park here. There are many of them so it seems like it must be a good workout.
Hey Rosey it is a good workout and I love doing yoga outside since the ground isn’t as stable as a hardwood floor so it helps you focus and be more present. Plus being in a park or by the beach is so relaxing and soothing itself. Hope you join soon!
I love Santa Barbara, but live in Germany. This yoga studio sounds wonderful and hopefully, I can plan a stop on my next visit. So much joy in this post.
Hi Meeta I used to live in Germany!! Which part? I am excited that you would like to stop by and hope to connect with a fellow yogi too!
This sounds so amazing, I can see that this place can give you a time to relax and enjoy your free time. Yoga helps you to have a peaceful mind.
Hi Nikki I agree with you how beneficial yoga can be in giving us a sense of peace and calm. Thanks to yoga I feel a lot more serene and focused.
I need to check out this place. The smaller place would help me learn yoga.
Hey Tarra I’m excited to hear that you want to check this place out. I like that the moon room is cozy and they only allow a maximum of 10 students so you get a lot of personalized attention. The Sun Room is larger and some classes tend to be more popular than others but either way it’s definitely a studio worth checking out.
I really enjoyed reading about Sol Seek Yoga in Santa Barbara. The studio’s serene atmosphere, diverse class offerings, and dedicated instructors truly stand out. Thanks for the detailed overview!
You are so welcome!
That yoga studio is gorgeous! I particularly love the Moon Room. I can see why you are still a member!
I love the moon room too!!! Hope you can check it out for yourself sometime.
It sounds like an amazing place; I love doing yoga to reduce my stress and to lower my blood pressure. I wish we had a place like this in my area. Thanks for sharing.
Happy to hear that you practice yoga and have found it helpful in reducing your stress and lower your blood pressure. That’s pretty amazing!