Christmas in July

You’ve driven by it a zillion times, that huge rooftop Santa Claus that beams down at motorists on Highway 101 just above Carpinteria.

You might feel silly about it in July, but it’s worth taking the Santa Claus Lane exit to explore this seaside nook. It’s not a North Pole village exactly, but features eateries with everything from date milkshakes to ostrich burgers, a shop that peddles antique toys, and an art gallery showcasing “luminous” paintings that seem to glow from within.

Though it can be found, there is surprisingly little Christmas glitz at this quirky roadside attraction that got its start in 1948 as an orange juice stand.

The busiest place seems to be Padaro Beach Grill, named for the popular adjacent beach. Brothers Gene and Paul Archambault took over the burger spot two years ago and created a landscaped mini-park outside where diners can take in the view.

The ostrich burger is a relative newcomer compared to the date milkshakes--made from California-grown dates--that have been a specialty in Santa’s Date Shop since 1948. You’ll also find baskets of saltwater taffy, giant pickles, scads of cookie cutters, as well as old Santa memorabilia.

Toys at the adjoining Toyland store include all the latest in Barbie accessories, along with old-timers like the Hula Hoop, Slinky, balsa-wood model airplanes and yo-yos. You can mail letters here and they’ll be hand-stamped with a small Santa head and the words, “Mailed from Santa Claus, California.”

BE THERE

Santa Claus Lane is off Highway 101 near Carpinteria. Take the Santa Claus Lane exit. For information, call the Carpinteria Chamber of Commerce, 684-5479.