15 Things To Know Before Visiting Santa Barbara

15 Things to Know Before Visiting Santa Barbara

Planning a trip to Santa Barbara? You’re in for a treat! As locals, we know this coastal gem inside and out, and we’re here to share some insider tips to make your visit even better. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, these 15 things will help you experience Santa Barbara like a pro.

Also, check out our blog posts on the Best Hotels in Santa Barbara with Kids and Best Hotels in Santa Barbara for Couples for the best accommodation recommendations!

Now, let’s dive into the 15 things you need to know before visiting Santa Barbara!

1. Should You Visit Santa Barbara? (Spoiler: Yes!)

Absolutely! If you’re traveling through California and trying to decide which destinations to visit, Santa Barbara should be at the top of your list.

California is huge, with everything from bustling cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco to breathtaking natural landscapes like Yosemite and Big Sur. Santa Barbara, however, has a unique charm that sets it apart—think laid-back California vibes, swaying palm trees, perfect weather, and stunning coastal views. It’s just the right size to explore without feeling overwhelmed, and there’s plenty to see and do without the chaos of a big city.

Even if you only have one day, Santa Barbara is well worth the stop—and it’s easily one of our favorite towns in California.

2. When Is the Best Time to Visit Santa Barbara?

Good news: there’s no bad time to visit Santa Barbara! The climate here is one of the most pleasant in the world, with mild temperatures year-round. That said, each season offers a slightly different experience, so here’s what you need to know:

Best Time to Visit: Shoulder Seasons (September-October & April-May)

• Fewer crowds and lower hotel prices
• September and October bring mild temps and less crowds
• April and May mean blooming flowers and great weather
• Slightly higher chance of rain, but still worth it

Summer (June-August): High Season

• Pros: Perfect beach weather, fun festivals like Old Spanish Days and Summer Solstice
• Cons: Crowds, higher prices for hotels and rentals
• If you don’t mind the buzz of peak season and more people, summer is a blast!

Winter (November-February): Low Season

• Pros: Cheaper lodging, fewer tourists, and festive holiday decorations
• Cons: Cooler temps, so swimming in the ocean might be off the table, but you can still enjoy walks on the beach and lounging on the sand
• Don’t miss the Christmas boat parade and holiday lights!

3. Where Should You Stay in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is made up of distinct neighborhoods and areas, each with its own charm. Here’s a quick guide to the best areas to stay:

Beachfront (Cabrillo Blvd):

• The classic Santa Barbara experience—ocean views, palm-lined streets, and easy access to the beach.
• Ideal for sunrise walks and endless sunsets.

(Almost) Beachfront:

• Santa Barbara has dozens of hotel and motels set back from the beach by just a few blocks. These hotels are great because they have a lower price point but easy access to the beach and other amenities.

Downtown & State Street:

• Perfect for those who love walkability! State Street is the heart of the city, lined with boutique shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks.
• Great mix of hotels, from boutique to luxury.

Montecito:

• South of Santa Barbara, this upscale enclave is home to celebs like Oprah and Prince Harry.
• Charming, peaceful, and full of high-end shopping and dining.

Here is a quick reference for some of our favorite hotels:

Best Hotel On the Beach: Harbor View Inn
Best Hotel (Almost) On the Beach: Marina Beach Motel
Best Hotel on State Street for Families: The Moxy
Best Luxury Hotel: Hotel California 
Best Budget Hotel: The Eagle Inn
Best for Families with Young Children: Hotel Milo

4. What region of California is Santa Barbara in?

Santa Barbara sits along California’s Central Coast, at the northern edge of what’s considered Southern California. It’s often called the “American Riviera” because of its stunning coastline, Mediterranean climate, and breathtaking mountain views. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara is a charming coastal city with about 90,000 residents. There truly is no place like it.

5. What should we do in Santa Barbara?

There’s no shortage of incredible things to do in Santa Barbara! As locals, one of our favorite things about living here is how much there is to explore—whether you’re into food, outdoor adventures, culture, or just relaxing.

Check out these posts: Fun Things to Do with Kids In Santa Barbara and 29 Things To Do for Couples in Santa Barbara.

Eat & Drink

Santa Barbara has an amazing food scene, from fresh seafood to world-class wine. Start with tacos at La Super-Rica Taqueria (a local legend), grab a craft cocktail at The Good Lion, or enjoy oceanfront dining at Brophy Bros. If you’re into wine, the Funk Zone is the place to go, with tons of tasting rooms featuring the best wines from Santa Ynez Valley. One thing I love about Santa Barbara is there is amazing food and drink at EVERY price point.

Get Outdoors

With perfect weather year-round, it’s easy to stay active in Santa Barbara. Hike Inspiration Point for amazing city views, rent an electric bike to cruise along Cabrillo Boulevard, or take a surf lesson at Leadbetter Beach. You can also kayak or paddleboard in the Santa Barbara Harbor or explore the Channel Islands on a day trip!

Culture & Art

Santa Barbara has a thriving arts scene, with museums, live music, and cultural events happening all the time. Check out the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, catch a show at the historic Granada Theatre, or stroll through the colorful Spanish-style courtyards of El Paseo.

Relax & Unwind

If you’re looking for a little R&R, Santa Barbara has plenty of options. Treat yourself to a spa day at Float Luxury Spa or the stunning El Encanto. Or simply grab a blanket and enjoy a sunset picnic at Butterfly Beach—one of the best spots to unwind.

6. Is Santa Barbara expensive?

Let’s be real—Santa Barbara isn’t the cheapest place to visit. But with a little planning, you can enjoy it without breaking the bank. Visit during the off-season (fall and winter) for lower hotel rates, check out the city’s many free activities (like the beach, hiking, and free museum days), and eat like a local by grabbing fresh tacos or a casual meal at the Public Market.

7. What’s the weather like in Santa Barbara?

If you’re looking for perfect weather, you’ve come to the right place! Santa Barbara enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, meaning warm, sunny days and cool evenings year-round. Summers are dry and rarely too hot, while winters are mild with occasional rain. Pack layers, and you’ll be set for anything!

8. What’s the best way to get around Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is super easy to navigate, and you don’t really need a car to enjoy the city. In fact, we highly recommend ditching the car and exploring on foot, by bike, or using the trolly.

Best ways to get around Santa Barbara:

• Walking: Downtown Santa Barbara is super walkable, and you’ll find charming streets, Spanish-style architecture, and great shops along the way. In fact, walking is the best way to get around.
• Biking & Scooters: There are miles of bike-friendly paths, and rentals are available all over town. Electric bikes make it even easier to cruise around! Check out this guided tour for a fun experience.
• Trolley & Public Transit: The Santa Barbara Electric Shuttle is an affordable and fun way to get around downtown and along the waterfront.
• Taxis & Rideshares: Uber and Lyft are available, though not as widespread as in bigger cities. Taxis are another option if you need a quick ride.

9. What should I pack and wear?

• In one word—layers! Santa Barbara’s weather can be a little unpredictable, with cool mornings, warm afternoons, and breezy evenings. It’s best to pack clothes you can easily add or remove throughout the day.
• Fall, Winter & Spring: Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket and a small travel umbrella—we get the occasional drizzle, and these will keep you dry.
• Year-round must-haves: A good scarf (stylish and practical for cooler evenings) and comfortable walking shoes—you’ll want to explore downtown, the beach, and the trails.
• Summer essentials: The temps are mild, but the sun is strong! Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to stay protected. Be sure to stop in Surf and Wear Beach House for some amazing local brands.
• If you forget anything, don’t worry! Santa Barbara has some great local shops with stylish raincoats, scarves, and easy-to-pack travel gear. Seavees is one of our all time favorite local brands…be sure to check out their store in the Funk Zone.

10. What are good gifts to buy in Santa Barbara?

• Santa Barbara has so many great locally made gifts that capture the spirit of the American Riviera. Whether you’re looking for something delicious, stylish, or uniquely Santa Barbara, here are some top picks:
• Santa Barbara Wines – The nearby Santa Ynez Valley is world-famous for its wines, especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. You can find great bottles at local tasting rooms or specialty shops throughout Santa Barbara.
• Local olive oil – The Central Coast produces incredible olive oils—check out the Santa Barbara Public Market for some delicious options.
• Artisanal chocolates & sea salt – Stop by Twenty Four Blackbird Choclates or grab a pack of locally harvested sea salt from the Salt Cave.
• Locally made jewelry – Find one-of-a-kind coastal-inspired pieces at small boutiques like DIANI Living or Jules by the Sea.
• Leather goods – Santa Barbara has a long tradition of leather craftsmanship—beautiful handmade bags and wallets make for a unique gift.
• Cozy beach blankets & textiles – Pick up a stylish throw from a local boutique to remember those dreamy Santa Barbara sunsets.
• Scented candles & spa products – Shops like The Grapeseed Company offer luxurious products made with wine-infused botanicals.

11. How to get to Santa Barbara?

• No matter how you choose to travel—by plane, train, or car—getting to Santa Barbara is easy and scenic!
• ✈️ Flying to Santa Barbara
• Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is just 10 miles from downtown, making it the most convenient option. It’s small, stress-free, and offers nonstop flights from cities like San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, Dallas, and Phoenix. Airlines include:
• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• United Airlines
• If you’re coming from farther away, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is about 90 miles southeast. From there, you can:
• Take the Santa Barbara Airbus (affordable and runs multiple times a day)
• Rent a car and drive up the scenic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). It is the perfect mini road trip.
• Book a private shuttle for a more direct option
• Another alternative is Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), about 85 miles away—a great choice if you’re flying from within the U.S.
• 🚆 Taking the Train
• For a beautiful and relaxing trip, hop on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner. This coastal train runs from San Diego to San Luis Obispo with stops in Santa Barbara, offering stunning ocean views along the way.
• If you’re traveling from Northern California or beyond, the Coast Starlight train is another scenic option, running all the way from Seattle to Los Angeles with a stop in Santa Barbara.
• 🚗 Driving to Santa Barbara
• If you love a good road trip, Highway 101 is your best friend! It’s a straight shot into town with gorgeous coastal views.
• From Los Angeles: ~90 miles (2-hour drive)
• From San Diego: ~215 miles (4-hour drive)
• From San Francisco: ~325 miles (5.5-hour drive)
• Once you’re here, parking is easy, and many hotels offer free or valet parking. But honestly, once you arrive, you won’t need a car much—Santa Barbara is super walkable!

12. How long should you spend in Santa Barbara?

I’d recommend at least 3–4 days to really soak in the best of Santa Barbara. That gives you time to explore the beaches, enjoy the incredible food scene, visit some wineries, and relax into the easygoing coastal vibe.

Of course, you could easily stay longer—there’s always more to uncover! Whether it’s hidden hiking trails, cultural festivals, or charming nearby towns, Santa Barbara has plenty of layers to explore.

13. What are the best day trips from Santa Barbara?

One of the best things about Santa Barbara is its prime location—you can head in just about any direction for an amazing day trip. Here are some top picks:

🌿 North: Coastal Beauty & Laid-Back Beach Towns

Head north along the Gaviota Coast, and you’ll be treated to stunning coastal cliffs and untouched beaches. Drive a little further (about 90 minutes) to reach:

• San Luis Obispo – A charming college town with great food, historic sites, and a super chill vibe.
• Morro Bay – Home to the iconic Morro Rock, perfect for kayaking, fresh seafood, and waterfront strolls.

🍷 East: Wine Country Getaway

Just 45 minutes inland, you’ll find the rolling hills of Santa Ynez and Santa Maria Valleys, a dream for wine lovers. Spend the day wine tasting, visiting quaint small towns, and enjoying farm-to-table cuisine. If you want to fully enjoy the wine experience (without worrying about driving), book a wine tour here and let the experts handle the logistics!

🌊 South: Quaint Coastal Towns & LA Adventures

Just south of Santa Barbara, you’ll find some charming seaside gems:

• Montecito – Upscale, stylish, and home to some of the best brunch spots and boutique shopping.
• Summerland – A dreamy little town with antique shops, beachfront cafés, and a laid-back vibe. Be sure to stop in Godmother Books…a one of a kind bookstore with a fantastic selection.
• Carpinteria – Known for “the world’s safest beach”, a great spot for families and a super relaxing beach day. Carpinteria is an old school beach town and very laid back.

Want to go further? Stop by:

• Ventura – A cool, artsy surf town with great breweries and a historic downtown.
• Malibu or Los Angeles – If you’re up for a longer day trip (1.5–2 hours each way), you can explore Malibu’s scenic coastline or dip into LA for some city fun.

🏝️ West: Channel Islands National Park

For something truly unique, head west to Channel Islands National Park. Just a short boat ride from Ventura Harbor, these islands are a hiker’s and kayaker’s paradise, with stunning sea caves, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking cliffs. It’s like stepping into another world—a must-do for nature lovers!

14. Is Santa Barbara Safe?

Yes! Santa Barbara is generally a very safe place to visit, and it’s known for its laid-back vibe and welcoming atmosphere. That said, like any travel destination, it’s always smart to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

A few tips for staying safe in Santa Barbara:

• Downtown and beach areas are well-patrolled and very safe, even at night, but always be mindful of your belongings, especially in busy areas.
• Car break-ins can happen anywhere, so don’t leave valuables visible in your vehicle.
• The Funk Zone and State Street have a lively nightlife scene—if you’re out late, stick to well-lit areas and use ride-share services if needed.

🌊 Ocean Safety

One thing to be especially mindful of in Santa Barbara is ocean conditions. The beaches are stunning, but the Pacific Ocean can be unpredictable:

• Rip currents are common, so always swim near a lifeguard station and pay attention to warning flags.
• Wave conditions change quickly—just because the water looks calm doesn’t mean it’s safe for swimming.
• If you’re surfing or paddleboarding, check local surf reports before heading out.
• The water can be colder than expected, even in summer, so a wetsuit might be a good idea for extended swims or surfing.

When in doubt, always listen to lifeguards and follow posted signs—even if you’re a strong swimmer.

15. Tips for International Travelers

Visiting Santa Barbara from abroad? Here are some handy tips to help make your trip smooth and stress-free.

💵 Currency

Santa Barbara businesses only accept U.S. dollars, and currency exchange facilities are pretty limited. Your best bet is to exchange money at your departure airport or use an ATM once you arrive. Most places widely accept credit and debit cards, so carrying cash isn’t a must, but it’s always good to have a little on hand for small purchases or tipping.

🚗 Driving & Car Rentals

• Age Requirement: If you’re renting a car, most companies require drivers to be at least 25. Some may rent to younger drivers (21+), but expect extra fees.
• License & Insurance: You’ll need a valid driver’s license (an International Driving Permit may be helpful, depending on your country) and proof of insurance. Many rental companies offer optional coverage, but check if your credit card or travel insurance already provides rental car protection.
• Rules of the Road:
  • We drive on the right side of the road in the U.S.
  • Speed limits are posted in miles per hour (MPH).
  • No texting or talking on the phone while driving (unless hands-free).
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited.

If you’re staying mostly in downtown Santa Barbara, you won’t need a car—walking, biking, and public transportation make it easy to get around!

🔌 Electricity & Plug Type

U.S. outlets run on 120 volts, 60 hertz, using Type A and Type B plugs. If your devices have a different plug type or voltage, you’ll need a plug adapter or voltage converter, which you can find at most electronics stores or online before your trip.

⏰ Time Zone

Santa Barbara is in Pacific Standard Time (PST). That means:

• -8 hours from GMT
• 3 hours behind New York (EST)
• Same time zone as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle

If you’re visiting during Daylight Saving Time (March–November), we switch to Pacific Daylight Time (PDT), UTC -7.

🚭 Smoking

California has strict smoking laws, so if you’re a smoker, keep these in mind:

• Smoking is banned indoors (restaurants, hotels, bars, offices, etc.).
• Many public places (beaches, parks, and outdoor dining areas) also prohibit smoking.
• Some hotels offer designated smoking rooms, but check in advance.

💰 Tipping Culture

Tipping is expected in the U.S., and Santa Barbara is no exception. Here’s a quick guide:

• Restaurants: 15% for good service, 20% for great service.
• Bars: $1–$2 per drink or 15–20% of the total bill.
• Taxi/Ride-share drivers: 10–20% of the fare.
• Hotel Staff:
  • Bellhops: $2 per bag.
  • Housekeeping: $2 per night.
  • Valet parking: $2–$5 when they bring your car.
• Tour guides/spas/salon services: 15–20%.

Some restaurants automatically include gratuity (especially for large groups), so check your bill before tipping extra!

In Conclusion…

Santa Barbara really is paradise on the west coast! We know you will fall in love with it and hope these 15 tips and tricks help make your stay easy and care-free.

We can´ wait to hear about your adventures!